What is it?

Psychological problems and mood swings can occur very frequently during the perimenopause and menopause. Sometimes even anxiety, phobias and panic attacks occur for the first time. This discomfort is similar to the feeling you may have during pregnancy: Suddenly you become very emotional and start crying over something small. This can be very distressing.
Nevertheless, it is one of the most common symptoms that women seek help for. Unfortunately, the direct link to the menopause is not immediately made and women do not contact their gynecologist quickly enough to address the problem.

What are the causes of mood swings?

There is a direct link between the changes in oestrogen levels during perimenopause and menopause and the mental and central nervous symptoms that women suffer from.
We know that oestrogen is linked to serotonin levels (the happiness hormone) in the brain, so when oestrogen levels fall, so does serotonin. Other hormones and molecules are also involved: Testosterone, cortisone or even a brain protein called monoamine oxidase A. As for cortisone, oestrogen has been shown to be linked to cortisol levels (the stress hormone), so when oestrogen levels fall, cortisol levels rise.
Unfortunately, falling oestrogen levels are also associated with a long list of unpleasant symptoms, including irritability, fatigue, stress, forgetfulness, anxiety and difficulty concentrating.
Other factors such as sleep can affect your mood. Lack of sleep can have a big impact. Hot flushes and night sweats, which often interfere with sleep, also play a role. It can even create a vicious circle: Stress and anxiety as well as depression affect your sleep and tiredness affects your mood.

How can you treat mood swings?

First and foremost, you need to talk about it! Try to clarify whether you are suffering from menopausal symptoms and whether your behavioral changes are related to the change in hormone levels. If those around you, your partner, your children and your relatives understand the situation, they will be more understanding and tolerant towards you.
Recognize your symptoms for what they are: You are not suffering from a mental illness and are not losing your personality, you are simply dealing with hormonal fluctuations that are affecting your brain.
Relaxation and meditation exercises are also a way forward. Avoid overwhelm and try to find time to relax. It's important to find out what does you good: a mediation session, a walk in the woods or listening to pleasant music.

There are dietary supplements based on St. John's wort or saffron that can be very effective. The Women Circle will soon be launching a product to alleviate mood swings.
If the malaise is very severe and the situation escalates into depression, antidepressants can help. Women who have an increased risk of breast cancer and are therefore not allowed to take hormone treatment can take antidepressants. Sometimes even small doses lead to an improvement in well-being. Discuss the risks and benefits for you with your doctor.

Finally, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can also be a very good option.
It is worth talking to your doctor about whether hormone replacement therapy is suitable for you.