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Anxiety during menopause is a prevalent symptom, manifesting as an intense or persistent state of fear, tension, or worry. It can emerge abruptly or gradually, often triggered by the hormonal changes associated with this life stage. Mental health expert and therapist, Bridget McCormick explains why anxiety is a natural response to stress but becomes problematic when it interferes with daily life, making it difficult to manage fear and leading to feelings of being overwhelmed.
For many women, anxiety may be the primary or sole symptom of perimenopause and menopause. This can leave you misinterpreting that you are simply less capable of coping than before. It’s crucial to recognize that experiencing anxiety during this time is not uncommon, affecting those even without a prior history of mental health issues.
Physical symptoms often accompany anxiety, including a fast heart rate, palpitations, nausea, trembling, sweating, dry mouth, chest pain, headaches, and rapid breathing. Panic attacks, characterized by sudden, intense episodes of fear and physical discomfort, can also occur.
Understanding that anxiety is both a psychological and physical response to the changing hormone levels and life stressors of menopause can be empowering. Approximately 30% of adults experience an anxiety disorder at some point, which can coexist with depression and significantly impact well-being. These conditions can be effectively managed through a combination of medical and non-medical interventions, such as medication, psychotherapy, and hormone therapy tailored to menopausal individuals.
If anxiety becomes overwhelming, you should reach out for professional help. Support is available, including the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (dial 988) and the Crisis Text Line (text HOME to 741741), providing immediate assistance. Recognizing you’re not alone and that help is available can be the first step toward managing menopause-related anxiety.
Anxiety during menopause is primarily triggered by the hormonal fluctuations that characterize this period. The decline in estrogen and progesterone levels directly impacts the brain’s regulation of mood and stress responses, leading to increased feelings of anxiety. Estrogen, in particular, plays a role in modulating neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which are key in regulating mood. As these hormone levels decrease, the balance of neurotransmitters can be disturbed, heightening anxiety.
Moreover, menopause brings about significant physical and emotional changes, including sleep disturbances, hot flashes, and night sweats, which can exacerbate or trigger anxiety. The uncertainty and discomfort associated with these symptoms can lead to increased stress, contributing to an anxious state.
The transition to menopause also coincides with various life stressors for many women, such as aging, health concerns, caregiving responsibilities, and changes in family dynamics. These stressors, combined with hormonal changes, can create a fertile ground for anxiety to develop.
Additionally, women who have previously experienced anxiety or other mental health issues may find their symptoms worsen during menopause. However, even those without a history of anxiety can experience it for the first time during this transition.
Understanding the multifaceted causes of anxiety during menopause is crucial for seeking appropriate support and management strategies. Recognizing that these feelings are a normal part of the menopausal transition can also provide comfort and reduce the stigma associated with mental health struggles during this phase of life.
Managing anxiety during menopause involves a holistic approach that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of this transitional period. Here are some effective strategies:
There is no reason to suffer. Get help today. Find a menopause-specific doctor or healthcare expert near you to help support your perimenopause and menopause journey.