According to the South African Society of Psychiatrists, apart from the more well-known physical symptoms such as weight gain and hot flashes, the risk of depression and anxiety increases during menopause due to hormonal changes.
JOHANNESBURG – Mental health ranks among the top five challenges that women encounter during menopause, and the South African Society of Psychiatrists (Sasop) is urging affected South Africans to seek help.
Menopause, which is a reality for most women can increase their risk of depression and anxiety.
“The risk of depression and anxiety increases during menopause due to hormonal changes, leading to feelings of hopelessness, lack of interest in life, being tearful, and increased worry, which can impact one’s day-to-day life, concentration, sleep patterns, and ability to take care of oneself,” said specialist psychiatrist and member of SASOP Dr Joanna Taylor.
These mental health symptoms are rarely discussed, even though they are as common as physical symptoms and are among the top five complaints raised by menopausal women.
“Women with a history of depression and anxiety are more prone to depressive symptoms during menopause and whilst not all menopausal women will develop depression. If you feel persistently irritable, sad, anxious and suffer from insomnia and ‘brain fog’ for longer than two weeks, it’s important to talk to your doctor,” said Taylor.
Taylor added that the most widely spoken about symptoms are the physical, such as hot flushes, night sweats, low libido, and weight gain, and even those may not affect all women, or affect them equally.
“Some might go through menopause with little disruption whilst others experience the prolonged agony of dwindling libido, hair loss, and headaches. But there is no need to suffer in silence. There are treatment options that can support this new phase of life.”
She stressed the importance of recognising that menopause is universal for all women and “should never feel disabling.”
“The symptoms of menopause will eventually ease, however, most women find them difficult to manage and require treatments to offer relief.”
According to a recent study by Ipsos, only 59% of South Africans consider themselves knowledgeable about menopause.
The same study indicates that only 37% of South Africans feel comfortable talking about their mental health to friends and family.
Sasop urges women to seek help from their nearest healthcare provider or facility, not only for their physical symptoms of menopause but for their mental well-being as well.
And as they seek help, women are advised to support their mental well-being during menopause by exercise, eating a diet that consists mainly of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein as this can assist in decreasing inflammation, hot flashes, and night sweats. A good night’s sleep is also essential.
_If you are experiencing any depression or anxiety symptoms, seek help by contacting the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) on 0800 12 13 14, or send an SMS to 32312 and a counsellor will call you back. _
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