Written by: Autumn Walsh (She/Her) MSW, LSW, CCTS
Perimenopause, often a tumultuous time in a menstruating person’s life, is characterized by distinctive hormonal fluctuations. These hormonal fluctuations and resulting symptoms can have a significant impact on mental health and well-being.
Recent research has connected severe mental illness and perimenopause. One noteworthy study, Severe Mental Illness and the perimenopause (2023) provides critical insights into the intersection of these two areas, shedding light on how this transition affects menstruating people with pre-existing mental health conditions. It focuses on understanding how perimenopausal changes can impact people suffering from mental health illnesses such as anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, etc.
Key Findings
Key findings from the study (Behrman & Crockett, 2023) report that the hormonal fluctuations that occur during this time can significantly exacerbate psychiatric symptoms in people already dealing with mental health diagnoses. Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone (Learn more) levels appear to worsen mood stability and increase the frequency of psychotic disorders.
The study finds that menstruating people with severe mental illness during this life phase are at elevated risk for developing mood disorders. The combination of hormonal changes and pre-existing mental health challenges can lead to a higher incidence of depression and anxiety.
The timing of perimenopause poses challenges for treatment strategies. Many menstruating people may need adjustments in their psychiatric medications due to the altered way hormones and medications interact during this transitional life phase. This highlights the necessity for a nuanced approach to treating perimenopausal people with mental health diagnoses during perimenopause.
The study also emphasizes that people undergoing perimenopause face increased social and psychological stressors, which further complicate mental health concerns. Factors such as aging, caregiving responsibilities, and societal attitudes intertwine with perimenopausal symptoms, creating significant distress.
An important takeaway from this research is the necessity of a comprehensive care approach. Perimenopausal people experiencing pre-existing mental illness benefit from multidisciplinary support that includes gynecologists, psychiatrists, mental health therapists, and primary care providers who empathize with and understand this difficult life stage. This can lead to more effective management of both physical and mental health concerns.
Implications for Menstruating People’s Health
The findings from this study underscore the need for increased awareness of how perimenopause interacts with mental health conditions. This knowledge can better inform healthcare providers in their treatment and support of perimenopausal people facing these multifaceted and complex challenges.
It is crucial to develop support systems, including therapy and counseling services, that specifically address the unique experience of perimenopausal people navigating both perimenopause and mental illness. Creating community resources can foster environments where people feel understood, supported, and heard. Healthcare professionals should prioritize personalized treatment plans that consider both hormonal changes and mental health history. Continuous monitoring and adjustments of medications and therapies can improve outcomes for people in this vulnerable population. Encouraging open conversations about mental health in the context of perimenopause can reduce stigma and foster a sense of community. Sharing experiences and strategies for coping can empower people to seek help and feel less isolated.
Conclusion
The relationship between perimenopause and mental health is complex and multifaceted. This study contributes significantly to our understanding of how these two elements intersect, particularly for people facing severe mental health challenges. By acknowledging the effects of hormonal changes, social stressors, and the need for comprehensive care, we can better support people in this important life stage.
Fostering awareness, enhancing support systems, and promoting open discussions will empower people to prioritize their mental health. As we move forward, integrating insights from research and shared experiences into practical healthcare approaches will be crucial in improving life for perimenopausal people.
The information contained in this blog does not replace professional treatment of diagnosis and is for educational purposes only.
References
Behrman, S., & Crockett, C. (2023). Severe mental illness and the perimenopause. BJPsych Bulletin, 1-7.
