It’s cited as perimenopausal depression and it’s an underrecognized issue. 

Historically the statistics of suicide have typically ranged in the teen to early 20s with emphasis on the uprise in the millennial generation. However, the rate of suicide in women ages 45-54 has increased. This can be due to major biological shifts that can be associated with menopause. I am approaching the next phase of life and it’s important for me too to be connected with my body’s new transitions.

This is a mental health challenge that has plagued women with no understanding of how or where this came from; leaving many to believe they are just highly emotional and/or losing their mind. Some women have felt that they are losing control of their lives. Clinicians have confirmed that this experience in the perimenopausal cycle can be prevalent. When I learned about this issue simply from reading an article it stuck with me…and it struck me. It made me think about the women out there that are battling but are put off as just emotional or dramatic.  It made me think about how desperate they must feel and how dark life must feel with no answers in sight.  We all know how uncomfortable it can be for abnormal feelings to transpire in our bodies (male and female) without rhyme or reason.

The hormonal shift is attributed to the gonadal hormones resulting in a deep depression and battle of inner thoughts and emotions.  I am often concerned about the support provided during a person’s midlife transition. We focus a lot on puberty/adolescence, early adulthood and the “over the hill” reference of turning 40. But what happens after that? What professional services or support systems are there for the midlife persons?  

The World Health Organization defines the perimenopause as ‘the time immediately preceding the menopause, beginning with endocrine, biologic and clinical changes, and ending a year after the final menstrual period’. (referenced verbatim) 

DIAGNOSING CHALLENGES 

Diagnosis of perimenopausal depression can be complicated for several reasons:

• a woman may not be seeking any professional help for what she’s experiencing
• a woman’s symptoms could be easily associated with hormonal imbalance with no further care or investigation
• a woman’s periodic behavior episodes may not be considered abnormal 

SYMPTOMS

A few symptoms identifiable as perimenopausal depression include:

• Low energy
• Constant broken sleep/insomnia
• Paranoid thoughts
• Hostile episodes
• Irritability
• Isolation
• Decrease in self-esteem
• Isolation
• Anxiety
• Somatic symptoms (extreme obsession over physical pain/distress/discomfort)
• Weight Gain
• Little-to-no interest in sex
• Issues with memory retention
• Challenge to focus

MANAGEMENT & TREATMENT

Let it be known that each woman should be handled as an individual. Behavior, symptoms and underlining issues can differ as well as determine medically if she is prone to this type of depression.

Her medical history is necessary.

Any mental health history documented is necessary.

Her physical health should be assessed. 

It is recommended that the treatment of perimenopausal depression take a holistic biopsychosocial approach.

This approach allows the individual to be viewed and analyzed from a humanistic view and a holistic view within health sciences. 

The biopsychosocial model relies heavily upon the biological, psychological and social factors of one’s life.

A physiotherapist is one professional that is highly recommended to seek help and treatment from. 

It is my hope and belief that by highlighting this epidemic that women will not disregard their emotions and internal challenges. Seek help from both therapy professionals and your medical doctor. Don’t be afraid to mention this diagnosis as something you would like to be monitored for. This is a part of your self love, self care, self awareness and advocacy. Don’t be afraid or ashamed. Speak up for yourself and allow yourself the opportunity to transition into your new season with support and proper attention.