Mood swings – check.
Short-term memory loss – check.
Difficulty thinking straight – check.
These are just some of the common complaints by midlife women. While several of these symptoms are attributed to menopause, there are still other contributing factors to consider. Let us talk about them one-by-one.
HORMONES
During a woman’s reproductive years, many women become accustomed to their own hormonal rhythm. When this rhythm is disrupted during the perimenopausal period, mood changes may occur.
TIMING
The timing of menopause might coincide with a multitude of midlife stresses such as widowhood or divorce, relationship issues, care of young children, return of grown children to the home, struggles with adolescents, as well as career and education issues, among others.
AGING
Getting older in a society where youth are more valued can be a bit demoralizing. Midlife women often experience changes in body image and self-esteem. Women may also begin to consider their own morality, as well as dwell on the purpose or meaning of their lives.
BALANCE
When it comes to dividing time between caring for family and work obligations, women need to remember that they also need to take care of their own needs – this should not be neglected at all costs. With the onset of various tensions, recognising a problem can lead to understanding the causes, as well as developing new mechanisms. Keeping a balance between self, friends, family, and work lets women meet new challenges and maintain self-confidence.
DEPRESSION
It is important that a woman knows how to evaluate levels of depression. Women who have been previously diagnosed with depression in their younger days are vulnerable to recurrent depression the perimenopause period. Women wo are suffering from depression report symptoms of prolonged loss of interest in normal activities, tiredness, sadness, weight loss or irritability. Therapeutic talks and treatments are recommended by health professionals.
ANXIETY
Psychological and physical changes, as well as midlife stressors, can result in increased anxiety. Feelings of dread, anticipation or fear are common and they usually get resolved without treatment. Frequent episodes of anxiety can be a warning sign of panic disorder. “Panic attacks” can be manifested through symptoms of chest pain, shortness of breath, heart palpitations, dizziness, or feeling out of control. Sometimes, the unsettling feelings that precede a hot flash can trigger or mimic such an attack. Treatments include stress reduction or relaxation techniques, psychotherapy or counseling, as well as prescription drugs.
MEMORY
Some perimenopausal women report having difficulties in concentrating or short-term memory problems. Such difficulties often frighten women, making them think they have early symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. Some studies suggest that remaining mentally, physically, and socially active may help prevent memory loss.
SUPPORT
Never try to diagnose or treat yourself. You should not feel embarrassed about seeking help. By evaluating symptoms, as well as family and personal history, health professionals can provide expert relief recommendations. Medication for depression is most efficient when used in combination with psychotherapy or counseling.
