Understanding the Impact of Hormones during menopause on our Mood

Perimenopause is a phase of life that can feel like an emotional rollercoaster. The hormonal changes and physical shifts that come with it can bring about a multitude of mood swings and emotional ups and downs. If you've ever felt like you're not quite yourself during this time, please know that your experience is valid, and you're not alone.

The Emotional Rollercoaster

Perimenopause can impact your mood in a variety of ways. You might find yourself experiencing mood swings, irritability, or even intense sadness. These emotions can be challenging, and it's entirely normal to feel overwhelmed by them.

I tried thinking of a good example in my own life to give you and honestly, there are just so many it’s hard to pick one! I could tell you about the hike I recently sabotaged with my anxiety or the quiet Sunday afternoon I spent feeling so depressed over a home renovation that didn’t go exactly perfectly…it’s all real…and much of it is being driven by the changes going on in my body.

validate Your Feelings

It's crucial to validate your feelings during perimenopause and menopause. You're not alone in this journey, and many women share similar experiences. Here's why your feelings are entirely valid:

Hormones play a significant role in regulating various bodily functions, including mood. During perimenopause and menopause, hormonal changes can have a profound impact on a woman's emotional well-being. Here's a closer look at how these hormonal fluctuations influence mood:

1. Estrogen and Mood: Estrogen is a hormone that affects the brain's neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, which play key roles in regulating mood. As estrogen levels fluctuate and decline during perimenopause and menopause, these neurotransmitters can become imbalanced, leading to mood swings and emotional fluctuations.

2. Physical Symptoms: The physical symptoms often associated with perimenopause and menopause, such as hot flashes, night sweats, and sleep disturbances, can exacerbate mood swings. Discomfort and lack of sleep can make you more prone to irritability and emotional sensitivity.

3. Cognitive Changes: Hormonal fluctuations can also affect cognitive functions like memory and concentration. Some women report feeling foggy or forgetful during perimenopause, which can be frustrating and contribute to mood disturbances.

4. Stress Response: Hormonal changes can impact the body's stress response system. You may find that you're more susceptible to stress, anxiety, and even panic attacks. This heightened stress response can lead to increased irritability and emotional reactivity.

5. Emotional Resilience: Hormones like estrogen can influence emotional resilience and the ability to cope with stress. As these hormones fluctuate, you may find that your emotional responses to everyday challenges are more intense or unpredictable.

6. Depression and Anxiety: For some women, the hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause can increase the risk of depression and anxiety disorders. If you have a history of these conditions, it's essential to monitor your emotional well-being and seek support if needed.

It's important to understand that the hormonal impact on mood is entirely normal during perimenopause and menopause. Your feelings of mood swings, irritability, sadness, or even moments of not feeling like yourself are valid and shared by many women going through similar experiences. By acknowledging the role of hormones in these emotional fluctuations, you can foster a sense of understanding and support, both from within and from your support network.