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It’s common to experience changes in your mood and how you generally feel when going through the different stages of menopause. For example, feeling low and anxious during menopause is perfectly normal.

Many women report feelings of anxiety, irritability, brain fog, and low self-esteem.

These feelings are largely caused by the hormonal changes you go through – the drop in estrogen can play havoc with your emotions and make you feel out of sorts.

The physical effects of menopause, like hot flushes, headaches and joint stiffness can also have an impact, understandably causing you to feel frustrated and down.

If you’re experiencing any of these feelings, then rest assured that you’re not alone. Keep reading to learn more about how menopause can impact your mental health, and the steps you can take to get through it. .

The emotional changes that come with menopause can feel overwhelming. And it may help to know that around 50% of women experience them.1 Here are some reasons why they can occur:

Feeling low during menopause

Hormonal changes during menopause can lead to feelings of low self-esteem and low mood. This is because estrogen, which controls your menstrual cycle, also influences serotonin – a chemical that promotes feelings of wellbeing and happiness.

If you have a history of depression, you may recognize some familiar emotions start to creep back in, which can feel scary, but remember that these feelings are very common during menopause, they can be treated, and they will pass.

Feelings of anxiety during menopause

Certain symptoms of menopause can induce or be associated with feelings of anxiety. For example, hot flushes can feel a lot like a panic attack, as they can both cause your heart to race and make you feel hot and sweaty.

During menopause you may also experience trouble sleeping, and tiredness from the lack of sleep can trigger feelings of anxiety too.

Mood swings during menopause

Mood swings are a common symptom of menopause. Falling estrogen levels can trigger changes in your moods and make you feel less in control than you might usually feel.

This can understandably affect how you feel about yourself, and it can also put a strain on relationships, but being open and honest with yourself and those you love about what you’re experiencing can help you to get through this time in your life and help your loved ones to understand what you’re going through.

Your emotional well-being is important. We’re here to help with the emotional side of menopause. Read on to learn more.

Physical Factors That Influence Mood

Any of these symptoms can make you feel down at the best of times, so it’s not surprising that they have an impact on your mood. A lot of the physical symptoms of menopause are well known, they might include:

• Weight gain
• Headaches
• Joint pain
• Incontinence or bladder weakness

You may experience some drips and dribbles during menopause. We have products that are specifically designed to keep you dry, comfortable and confident through the day. We also care about your skin – read more about how to care for intimate skin.

All the feelings we’ve mentioned above can affect your confidence and self-esteem, but there are certain things you can do to manage these feelings and to help you stay confident during menopause:

• Read about menopause to understand changes and ease symptoms.
• Monitor your mood and identify any patterns.
• Prioritize sleep by avoiding coffee, tea, soft drinks, or energy drinks six hours before going to bed.
• Talk to your doctor to help you quit smoking.
• Try meditation to help minimize stress.
• Make time for regular exercise.
• Eat a healthy diet and keep your blood sugar levels stable.
• Have a support system, whether that’s friends, family, or other women going through menopause too.
• Use discreet and effective protective incontinence products like TENA Very Light liners if you experience drips or dribbles during menopause.

The frequency and intensity of symptoms are different for each person. Just because you have had friends who have had a terrible time during menopause doesn’t mean that you will too.

Remember that it’s normal to feel the way you do, and this is something that every woman will go through at some point in her life. There’s lots you can do to take control of the situation and prevent and minimize the symptoms.

Don’t hide from it, embrace it. Share your experiences with others. You’ll be surprised to know how many women, young and old, will benefit from your experience and will want to hear what you have to say.

If feelings of anxiety, low mood or mood swings are affecting your daily life or your relationships, and you’re really struggling, then speak to your doctor.

Help is available, so you don’t have to do this alone. Your doctor might offer you hormone replacement therapy (HRT) medication, other medicines, or counselling to help you as you go through menopause.

Reaching out for help isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a sign of strength. Remember, your mental health is just as important as your physical health, and support is always available.

• Menopause may bring overwhelming feelings like low mood, anxiety, and mood swings.
• These feelings are normal, and you’re not alone.
• Lifestyle changes, incontinence products, support from loved ones or your doctors could help.
• Seeking help shows your strength, not weakness.

FAQs

Why do I feel anxious during menopause?

Anxiety during menopause could happen when lower estrogen levels affect your sleep, causing insomnia.² Poor sleep could then impact your mood and increase feelings of stress, anxiety or tension.²

Support from friends and family and calming strategies, like relaxation or meditation, could make a real difference.

Is depression during menopause normal?

Feeling low or even depressed during menopause is common, especially if you’ve had depression before.² You could manage these feelings with the right support from friends, family, support groups or even therapy.

How can I manage low mood and anxiety in menopause?

Here are a few coping strategies that could help with low mood and anxiety during menopause:

• Practice stress relief, like meditation or yoga.
• Eat a balanced, nourishing diet.
• Prioritize restful sleep.
• Lean on friends, family, or a support group.
• Talk to your doctor if these feelings start to affect your daily life.