Perimenopause and Depression

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Women have an increased risk for depression as they transition to menopause. The time period before menopause is "perimenopause" and it represents the passage from reproductive to non-reproductive life. Research has indicated that depression is more likely to occur before menopause, known as "perimenopause" while women experience a fluctuation of hormones. Estrogen levels gradually declining may bring on depression. 

Click here to read more about depression. 


Signs and Symptoms of Depression 

  • Two or more weeks of depressed mood
  • Decreased interest or pleasure in activities
  • Change in appetite
  • Change in sleep patterns
  • Fatigue or loss of energy
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Excessive feelings of guilt or worthlessness
  • Extreme restlessness and irritability
  • Thoughts of suicide

Treatment

Depression is treatable at any stage of life. For perimenopausal mood swings, some experts recommend a low-dose oral contraceptive (OC) to help stablize hormone levels1.


ADAA Resources

To learn more in-depth about perimenopause and treatments, check out ADAA's Patient Guide to Mood and Anxiety Disorders.

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1. Depression & Menopause. (2018). Menopause. The North American Menopause Society.

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