Menopause Mood Swings

“Hormone changes in the years leading to menopause
(perimenopause) can cause mood swings and irritability
and can contribute to depression and anxiety”.¹

Umbrella
What may the Menopause Mood Swings Umbrella include?

Depending on the Source (DotS) this Umbrella may include:

Menopause Mood Swings
Perimenopause Mood Swings

Menopause

Is there an association between menopause and mood swings?

In Factors Affecting Women: Menopause the (Australian) Beyondblue elaborate on:

“Menopause can increase the risk of developing mental health issues. Hormone changes in the years leading to menopause (perimenopause) can cause mood swings and irritability and can contribute to depression and anxiety. Changes in hormonal levels can also result in a range of physical challenges such as hot flushes, night sweats, interrupted sleep patterns and weight gain – all of which can affect mental health”.²

Bipolar Disorder

Are menopause mood swings different to bipolar disorder?

Yes. Menopause mood swings are different to bipolar disorder. In Bipolar Disorder: Overview the (United States) National Institute of Mental Health’s definition of bipolar disorder is:

“Bipolar disorder (formerly called manic-depressive illness or manic depression) is a mental illness that causes unusual shifts in a person’s mood, energy, activity levels, and concentration. These shifts can make it difficult to carry out day-to-day tasks”.³

Depression

Are menopause mood swings different to depression?

Yes. Menopause mood swings are different to depression. In Depression: Overview the World Health Organization explain:

“Depressive disorder (also known as depression) is a common mental disorder. It involves a depressed mood or loss of pleasure or interest in activities for long periods of time.

Depression is different from regular mood changes and feelings about everyday life. It can affect all aspects of life, including relationships with family, friends and community. It can result from or lead to problems at school and at work”.⁴

Cause

What may cause menopause mood swings?

In Menopause: Mood Swings the (United States) Endocrine Society elaborate on:

“As a woman ages, estrogen levels are fluctuating from one minute to the next, and erratic. Less progesterone is produced (but stabilizes at low levels in post menopause, around age 55). Estrogen is related to production of serotonin, a mood-regulating neurotransmitter. Fluctuating estrogen and progesterone levels, plus other factors, cause serotonin production disruption, leading to more mood swings. Mood disorders are common during this time”.⁵

Self-Help Measures

What are some self-help measures which may help mood changes?

The Endocrine Society explain:

“Mood swings are a part of aging for many women, but the good news is that you can take steps to help prevent them and manage them when they occur. Often, a healthy lifestyle is the first step in preventing mood swings.

Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods
Eat a balanced, health diet with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
Talk to a therapist or counselor
Get enough sleep
Exercise regularly
Find healthy ways to deal with stress”.⁶

Health Care Provider

What if I would like help with menopause mood swings?

If you would like help with menopause mood swings, it may be in your best interest to choose to talk to your health care provider about this.

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