If you think you’re suffering from depression, speak to an expert before you do anything at all. It’s a complex subject and affects our mental health, so we need those who are an authority to direct us. I have found some facts here from a trusted site, but always question your own situation before making any decisions and without fail, seek professional advice.
There are innumerable reasons why people get depressed and it is said that the main reason women, especially menopausal women, are more likely to suffer from depression is because of their hormonal imbalance.
We may feel pessimistic, have a sense of inadequacy, feelings of sadness, have a despondent lack towards activity.
Apparently, there are six identified types of depression, one type lasting for more than two weeks, characterised by intense feelings of sadness, loss of interest in normal activities, withdrawal from friends and family, and negative thoughts. Another, adjustment disorder, can be brought on by a stressful event or situation, and can be acute (lasting less than six months) or chronic (lasting longer).
Some types of depression can be brought about because of stress, smoking, or giving up smoking, using drugs and alcohol, or menopause.
Signs and symptoms of depression can include physical ones, such as fatigue, decreased energy, overeating, appetite loss, insomnia, excessive sleep, persistent aches or pains. Emotional symptoms may be evident, such as persistent sad or anxious feelings, feelings of pessimism, worthlessness and guilt, irritability and restlessness. Behavioural symptoms may include loss of interest in activities or hobbies, having difficulty concentrating and remembering details, or making decisions, perhaps neglecting responsibilities and one’s self.
Causes are many and hormone imbalance is quite likely to be a deciding factor, but certainly not the only one.
Treatments for Depression
Although depression can make a menopausal woman feel hopeless, a variety of treatment options exist that can help wash away her depression and keep her hope alive. As always, it’s best to begin with the least invasive option, which would be lifestyle changes. In the case of depression, this involves steps such as making sure to get regular exercise, eating healthily and practising mind-body techniques such as meditation or yoga.
Exercise is a must. But this doesn’t have to be something you hate. Find something you enjoy doing. Just remember to begin something you know you like, or it could be short-lived! Try to manage half an hour as many times a week as possible. Experts tell us that every day is the best, but I know that’s difficult for many people.
Eating healthily will also help to stabilise mood swings and alleviate depression. Lifestyle changes are an important first step to tackling depression, but there are other treatment options available if you feel that further help is necessary to regain a positive outlook on life.
An effective approach, as depression in menopausal women is supposed primarily to be caused by a hormonal imbalance, is to treat the problem directly at the hormonal source. A variety of natural and alternative supplements exist that may be able to address this imbalance.
Amongst other things, please investigate naturopathy and get advice on your diet. You'll be amazed at the difference in you with just small changes.
And there's another approach I urge you to look at. META-medicine. Please go to Roni's page and read about this wonderful and natural practice.
BUT - it’s important to remember that you are an individual. One size doesn’t fit all. The life you’ve lived, the experiences you’ve had, the thoughts and feelings you’ve had, your family, your beliefs, and so on, all serve to make you the beautiful, unique woman you’ve become. And it’s for this reason that when you decide to take responsibility for your own well-being, you may have to try several avenues before discovering what suits you and what heals you. We all need a helping hand to get through difficult periods in our life and there’s plenty of help out there. Just keep talking to people to find what it is you need. Spend the time on yourself.
You’re worth it and you deserve it.
