Are you feeling down, not seeing the world the way you once did? Do you feel heavyhearted, fatigued, and unable to enjoy the simple things?
Turns out, menopause could be causing your depression.
First off, let’s talk about menopause itself. Menopause marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years and typically occurs around the age of 51. However, for Black women, menopause can start earlier and last longer. According to the majority of research, Black women tend to experience menopause symptoms more severely and for a longer duration compared to white women. This prolonged transition phase can amplify the impact of hormonal changes on mental health.
And from there? Depression can become an issue…
Is There a Connection Between Menopause and Depression?
You may not know it, but menopause and depression are often closely intertwined. Hormonal fluctuations, particularly changes in estrogen and progesterone levels, play a significant role. Estrogen and progesterone influence neurotransmitters in the brain that regulate mood, such as serotonin and dopamine. When these hormone levels drop during menopause, it can disrupt the delicate balance of neurotransmitters, leading to symptoms of depression.
Studies find that women transitioning through menopause are at a higher risk of developing depressive symptoms. One study in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism revealed that Black women experience higher rates of depressive symptoms during perimenopause, the transitional phase before menopause.
Fortunately, none of this has to mean that you’ll be dealing with uncontrollable menopause. There are many strategies to deal with menopause.
RELATED: 5 Tips For Minimizing Mood Swings
Combatting Depression During Menopause
Are you struggling to manage depression during menopause? Do you wish there was another way?
Here are multiple ways to lighten the mood and get back to feeling like you!
Supplement with Calcium and Vitamin D
Studies have shown that calcium and vitamin D supplementation can help alleviate mood disturbances during menopause. Calcium supports nerve function, while vitamin D promotes serotonin production, a neurotransmitter linked to mood regulation. Aim for a daily intake of
