Menopause Mood Swings: Symptom Guide

What are mood swings in menopause? 

A mood swing is a sudden or intense change in emotional state. During a mood swing, a person may quickly switch from feeling happy and upbeat to feeling sad, irritable, or angry.

What causes mood swings during menopause?

During the transition into menopause, a decline in estrogen hormone levels occurs, triggering a cascade of changes throughout the body. Many of these changes are directly associated with fluctuations in mood that commonly occur during menopause.

For instance, the reduction in estrogen can influence the regulation of serotonin and norepinephrine, both of which are substances possibly linked to depression. However, the research exploring this correlation is currently inconclusive.

Diminished estrogen levels are correlated with heightened irritability, fatigue, stress, memory lapses, anxiety, and challenges with concentration.

The influence of these shifting hormonal levels might not solely establish a straightforward cause-and-effect connection with feelings of depression, anger, and anxiety. Instead, these hormonal changes could potentially amplify the intensity of these emotions.

What is happening inside your body?

Estrogen hormone levels begin to decline during the transition into menopause, which can influence the regulation of serotonin and norepinephrine, both linked to possible depression. The lower estrogen levels are correlated with heightened irritability, fatigue, stress, memory lapses, anxiety, and challenges with concentration.

What are some medical-provider-prescribed treatments for mood swings during menopause?

• Hormone replacement therapy: By restoring estrogen levels, this type of therapy can help treat emotional changes, including mild or moderate mood swings. 
• Antidepressants: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the most commonly used antidepressants; they increase the amount of serotonin in the brain, improving mood and reducing mood swings. 

What are some non-medical treatments for menopausal mood swings?

• Psychotherapy: This type of talk therapy can be one-on-one or in a group setting and often goes hand in hand with medication. Forms of psychotherapy include cognitive behavioral therapy and interpersonal therapy. We recommend Thrive Psychology, Grow Therapy, and Happier Living as mental health partners. 
• Exercise: Physical activity helps improve mood by releasing endorphins, which trigger positive feelings and regulate mood swings.

What should you do next? 

Let’s get you prepared to be paired with your provider! 

Select and submit all of the symptoms you are currently experiencing so your doctor can assess and provide a tailored treatment plan for you.

References

‍Researchers have found higher levels of a brain protein known as monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A) in people entering perimenopause—this protein has links to depressive symptoms.