Your mood is fluctuating dramatically. One minute you feel fine, and the next you’re on the verge of tears. You feel irritable most of the time and lack interest in previously enjoyable activities. You are worried and experiencing recurring thoughts that seems illogical to others. 

If you’re woman in your late 40s or early 50s, and you are experiencing above mentioned symptoms, no doubt you are navigating a phase of menopause. 

Menopause, a natural part of aging in women’s life marks the cessation of menstrual cycles and the end of reproductive years. Physical changes of menopause such as hot flashes, night sweat, fatigue, vaginal dryness, and irregular periods are widely recognized.

But do you know, beyond physical manifestations, emotional impact of menopause is profound but often underestimated?

Yes, menopause involves a complex interplay of hormonal shifts that influences both body and mind.

Hormonal shift and emotional ups and downs

Around a phase of menopause, your ovaries taper off their production of the hormones estrogen and progesterone. 

Unfortunately, it is not a smooth gradual decline in hormone. In fact, hormone levels can fluctuates quite widely. This hormonal fluctuations influence neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, contributing to frequent mood swings and emotional ups and downs.

At the same phase of life you are probably dealing with other emotional challenges too. Your children may be leaving home for education or jobs, your parents are critically in ill-health, your own health is declining gradually or you may be losing your friends.

Whatever the challenge, these mid-life stressors can exacerbate the menopausal moodiness. And mood swings are more pronounced if you already have a history of mood disorders.

Even you are young inside, graying of hair, sagging of skin and wrinkles reminds you that you’re getting older. 

What’s more, hot flashes and night sweats prevent you from getting a full night of restorative sleep and you are more prone for fatigue and exhaustion. 

As you are navigating menopausal moodiness, experiencing emotional issues like anxiety and depression are common. Anxiety-related symptoms such as restlessness, irritability and a sense of impeding danger are common. 

Likewise, depressive symptoms such as feelings of sadness, and hopelessness affects woman’s overall well-being. Feelings of worthlessness and guilt change your self-image.

Emotional health is a crucial segment of the menopause journey, and the psychological impact of menopause can be difficult to tackle. These emotional changes from menopause can be disruptive and uncomfortable and may lead to reduced self-esteem.

A shift in identity

Childbearing is an amazing experience in women’s life. Motherhood provide purpose and meaning to your life. However, menopause tells you that your reproductive purpose is over. This shift in identity is emotionally draining and put significant question mark on your survival. A perceived lack of purpose could be a significant reason for feelings of isolation and neglect.

Concerns about aging further aggravate future related worries. 

Coping with the inconveniences of menopause

Lifestyle changes are pivotal while navigating menopausal transition with grace. 

Regular exercise is the fundamental component promoting mood regulation through the release of endorphins (feel-good hormone). Incorporating stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness meditation or yoga foster a sense of calm and resilience. 

A balanced diet rich in fresh vegetables and fruits, healthy proteins and fats, and low-glycemic carbohydrates and adequate hydration maintain overall vitality. 

Spending time with supportive friends and family provide a crucial outlet to express emotions. Sharing experiences with women going through similar phase foster a sense of understanding and reduces feelings of isolation. Doing activities you enjoy provide emotional encouragement and help to overcome mood swings to great extent.

But when menopause interferes with daily activities of living seeking professional advice may help. Psychological therapies can help you change or manage unhelpful thoughts including rumination and self-critical thoughts.

Remember that menopause is not the end of life but beginning of new chapter of your life. So, embrace it gracefully.

Disclaimer 

Mediclin Brain Health’s content is for informational and educational purposes only. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.