The unspoken realities of menopause and mental health

The recent announcement of Nicola Bulley’s partner agreeing to participate in a documentary about her tragic disappearance has sparked renewed conversations about the intersection of menopause, mental health and public perception. While there is absolutely no evidence to suggest that Nicola Bulley took her own life, it’s essential to acknowledge that during the media frenzy and speculation surrounding her case, discussions arose about menopause and mental health. 

These are conversations that must be prioritised, for the lack of public discourse around the mental health implications of menopause has dangerous consequences for countless women.

When we think of menopause, many still conjure the image of an older woman fanning herself due to hot flushes - one of the most common and visible symptoms. Yet, there is so much more to the menopause transition than just physical discomfort. The psychological effects are profound and in many cases, far more distressing than the physical symptoms. Research reveals that over 70% of women say the psychological effects of menopause far outweigh the physical (NHS inform). This statistic serves as a wake-up call: menopause is not merely a physical transition; it’s a psychological one that can turn a woman’s life upside down.

The overwhelming psychological impact

For many women, the emotional turmoil of menopause can be overwhelming, even debilitating. Anxiety, depression and mood changes are frequently reported, along with brain fog, memory lapses and a deep sense of identity loss.

Women have shared stories of how the psychological strain has led them to walk away from careers, and relationships and in extreme cases, even contemplate ending their own lives. 

The link between menopause and mental health remains critically under-explored. A 2019 study published in the journal Menopause found that women in the perimenopausal stage are two to four times more likely to experience major depressive episodes than premenopausal women. This is not only due to the hormonal fluctuations associated with menopause but also the broader societal pressures women face as they age - pressures that can compound existing anxieties or stressors.

Why we aren’t talking about it

One of the primary reasons we don’t talk enough about menopause and mental health is the stigma. Menopause is often dismissed as a ‘natural’ stage in life, a biological certainty, leading many to believe that women should simply endure it without seeking help. 

For many women, the transition through menopause marks a period of significant life shifts, whether it’s children leaving home, career changes or relationship breakdowns. These shifts can exacerbate feelings of anxiety or depression. Unfortunately, societal expectations often push women to remain silent or stoic during these difficult times, even as they face emotional, hormonal and existential crises.

Seeking help and offering solutions

It’s crucial to acknowledge that there is help available, and solutions do exist for women navigating menopause and its mental health implications. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), lifestyle modifications, therapy and support groups can offer significant relief. However, for these solutions to be effective, we must first break the silence around menopause and mental health. You are not alone and there are solutions. 

Below are some resources for women who are struggling with menopause and mental health:

• The Menopause Charity: A UK-based charity offering support, advice, and resources on menopause symptoms, including mental health concerns. 
• The Daisy Network: A charity specifically supporting women diagnosed with premature menopause. Their resources include emotional support, medical advice, and community forums. 
• Mind: A leading mental health charity providing information on menopause-related depression and anxiety, along with resources for coping with mental health issues during this transition.
• Talking therapies: Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) has been found effective for managing the psychological impact of menopause. Many therapists offer menopause-specific CBT, and the NHS also offers talking therapy referrals.

Women need to feel empowered to speak up about their experiences without fear of judgment or dismissal. Medical professionals, employers and society as a whole must be more attuned to the signs of menopausal distress, ensuring that women receive the support they need.