When you hear menopause, what comes to mind? Besides the physical changes to a woman’s body, menopause also brings about hormonal changes. During menopause, hormones such as estrogen and progesterone fluctuate and decrease. As a result, lower estrogen and progesterone levels can lead to anxiety and depression.

While mental health struggles are common during menopause, they can feel overwhelming amidst other major life changes. However, there are people you can turn to for guidance and support. If you suspect you have anxiety or depression, visit your healthcare professional to learn more. If you need medication, visit your local pharmacist. If you just want to talk to someone about your mental health, consider visiting a therapist.

You can also improve your mental wellbeing by doing small things. Going outside, doing light forms of exercise and eating a Mediterranean diet (fruits, vegetables and protein-filled foods) can all help to make you feel better.

While there is no cure for eradicating anxiety and depression, knowing how to cope with them can make them more manageable. Finally, even though menopause can feel isolating, know that you are not alone. More than 10 million Canadian women over the age of 40 experience menopause. While menopause will look different for each woman, there is comfort in knowing that there are others also going through this new stage of life.

By Diane Alavie, BSc.Phm.