Perimenopausal Symptoms and Depression

Coping with depression has always been an illness many persons found difficult. Experiencing depression during perimenopause is certainly another factor that many women do not find comforting. The onset of perimenopause is very confusing; this is because women do not expect to be going through this stage in their life at ages 30-45, hence the depression.

Perimenopausal Depression

Changes in hormonal levels have been known to contribute to depression in women of perimenopausal age. Research has been done on several women at ages 35-45 that were not or were never diagnosed with any stage of depression. During a six-year period, these women were documented to have developed symptoms of depression and were very concerned. Their hormonal levels were either being very unstable or were dropping because of irregular periods or missed periods.

Insomnia

This is one of the symptoms that were experienced by these women during perimenopause. They were either suffering from lack of sleep or having too much sleep. This makes them unable to function at maximum, which is noticeable by family and friends.

Chest Pains

These pains may be mistaken for stomach cramps, heartburn, heart problems or lung problems. If you were already a heart patient depression will become a factor of this symptom. Many persons who experience this symptom have seen the possible onset of heart disease.

Exhaustion and Fatigue

These two symptoms seem to work together during perimenopausal periods. They affect you simultaneously and will cause women who are going through perimenopausal stages to feel extremely tired, listless and not able to perform the easiest of tasks. Remaining in bed is easier than trying to do anything.

[wp_ad_camp_4]Head Ache, Muscle and Joint Pains

These symptoms are generally very debilitating. Many women find all three pains, headache, muscle and joint pains to start at the same time. The only help is to take a few painkillers and go to bed. All three types of pain are attributed to the depression cycle. Many women who are depressed during perimenopause will find they are considerably prone to one or all these symptoms.

Weight Loss or Appetite Change

Depression can play an awful number on your desire for food. Some women will lose their appetite, which will lead to weight loss. Not many women find the need to eat certain foods, and will be prone to develop the eating disorders of Bulimia or Anorexia. This situation may need to be treated with therapy, and families will need to be very considerate of these trying times being experienced. This loss of appetite sometimes is not attributed to perimenopause by women. Their doctor generally will diagnose this.

Sexual Issues

Perimenopausal women find they are not in the mind for sex. This is because of the hormonal roller coaster their body is experiencing. Some symptoms may be attributed to the depression medication that you are taking. Talk to your doctor about this and he will change or prescribe a lesser dose for you. Some sexual issues are also common because of vaginal dryness.  This causes sex to be very painful and penetration may be an issue. Some over the counter lubricants will help and you may consult your doctor for additional support.

Many women are really concerned about the early onset of menopause. Perimenopause will be an issue for women at any time. Consulting your OBGYN or general Doctor is always a wise move, as some of the symptoms experienced needs medical attention. Women with these concerns need the support of friends and family to help them through this time.