London, England – Perimenopausal women may face a 40% increased risk of depression compared to their premenopausal counterparts, as suggested by a recent global research analysis conducted by experts from University College London (UCL). The study, which examined data from over 9,000 women worldwide, highlighted the vulnerability of women to depression leading up to the cessation of their menstrual periods. These findings underscore the importance of providing support and screening to effectively address the mental health needs of women during this transitional stage.
The perimenopausal phase typically begins three to five years before menopause sets in, with women typically experiencing menopause between the ages of 49 and 52. This period has been previously identified as a time when women are most susceptible to depression. Common mental health symptoms during perimenopause include low mood, anxiety, mood swings, low self-esteem, and issues with memory and concentration, along with physical symptoms like hot flushes, sleep disturbances, and weight gain.
The new research, published in the Journal of Affective Disorders, analyzed data from seven studies involving women from various countries such as Australia, the US, China, the Netherlands, and Switzerland. The study found that perimenopausal women have a significantly higher risk of experiencing depressive symptoms and diagnoses, about 40% higher than premenopausal women. However, no significantly increased risk was observed in postmenopausal women compared to premenopausal women.
The researchers suggested that the decrease in estrogen levels during menopause could trigger the onset of new depressive symptoms or exacerbate existing ones. They noted that estrogen plays a role in affecting the metabolism of neurotransmitters that influence emotional states. Additionally, factors such as night sweats leading to sleep disturbances and a history of depression were associated with an increased risk of depression during menopause.
Lead author Yasmeen Badawy emphasized that the findings of the study point to the significance of recognizing the increased vulnerability of women in the perimenopausal stage to depression. It is crucial to provide adequate support and screening to address the mental health needs of women effectively during this period. In a previous study, the researchers found that therapies like mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapy could be effective in treating non-physical symptoms of menopause.
Senior author Dr. Roopal Desai stressed the importance of raising awareness and providing support to ensure that perimenopausal women receive the necessary help and care to manage their mental health effectively. The study underscores the challenges faced by women dealing with menopausal symptoms and highlights the importance of addressing their mental health needs both medically and in their personal and professional lives.