Depression during menopause, can it be hormones? Can hormones cause depression? Depression in women can be due to hormonal imbalances. Hormones have a great impact on mood and sleep. According to online research, it is estimated that 8-15% of menopausal women experience depression. Hormonal imbalances are closely related to depression in women.
What are the symptoms of depression?
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering details, and making decisions
- Decreased energy
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, and/or helplessness
- Feelings of hopelessness
- Difficulty sleeping, early-morning wakefulness, or excessive sleeping
- Irritability
- Loss of interest in activities or hobbies once pleasurable, including sex.
How Do Hormones Affect Depression in Women?
According to alternative medicine doctors, several hormones contribute to depression in women.
Progesterone: Helps promote sleep, normalizes libido, and acts as a natural antidepressant. An imbalance of progesterone cause insomnia and contribute to bad moods.
Cortisol: High levels of cortisol can create sugar cravings, agitation, insomnia, and increased belly fat. Low levels can be associated with fatigue, mood changes, low libido and inability to handle stress.
Estrogen: Fights depression and promotes sleep by promoting serotonin production. It also increases GABA (a neurotransmitter which creates a calming effect) and helps increase feel good endorphins. Low estrogen levels often found in menopause can cause feelings of sadness and hopelessness according to anti-aging doctors.
Bio-Identical Hormone Treatment for Menopause Depression
A number of studies link hormonal imbalances to various depressive disorders. The relationship between hormone imbalances and depression makes natural bio-identical hormone replacement therapy an effective treatment for menopause depression in women (Cunningham 2009; Parcells 2010; Bloch 2011; Sundermann 2010).
Where can I get more information?
Contact Great Earth Compounding Pharmacy at 310-550-1822, for a referral to a physician near you that specializes in natural bio-identical hormone replacement therapy.