Mood Swings and the Menopause: Feeling Up and Down
Mood swings are certainly a real part of the menopause. As our oestrogen levels fluctuate and fall, they impact on the stability of our moods.
Why do we get mood swings during the Menopause?
During the menopause, changes in our hormone levels can play havoc with our emotional state. Oestrogen, which is responsible for producing our eggs and menstruation, is also in control of secreting mood-enhancing chemicals called serotonin. During the menopause, as our oestrogen fluctuates in its production of serotonin, so will our mood. Common menopause symptoms such as brain fog, hot flushes, night sweats, disrupted sleeping patterns and general physical changes can also contribute to mood swings.
Why is my mood so changeable?
Menopause is a season of change and our emotional reactions are, inevitably, part of that. Mood swings are very spontaneous and highly unpredictable at any given time, which can have us feeling as if we are on an emotional rollercoaster when it comes to everyday life. We may feel that we cannot hold onto a train of thought, recall a recent memory or remember our ‘to do’ list for the day. This can feel very frustrating for both ourselves and those around us, especially if mood swings aren't part of our usual character or temperament.
What can help with my mood swings?
Granted that emotional body symptoms, such as mood swings, aren’t as visible as physical body symptoms in the menopause, they are no less interfering with our state of wellbeing. If you find that you can’t account for your low mood, or if it’s causing emotional upheaval in your relationships then help is available to you.
This might be anything from personal counselling sessions to online menopause support groups, both of which can be helpful in creating a sense of being. You may find some comfort in speaking to other women who are experiencing the same challenges. It’s important to remember that these symptoms are a result of your hormones changing, and they will usually ease up once you are through the menopause.
Popular remedies for mood swings:
- Be conscious about consuming wholesome food rich in nutrients
- Make sure you are getting an adequate amount of sleep
- Pursue supportive friendships and relationships
- Exercise in ways you enjoy to lower stress and increase serotonin
- Embrace daily relaxation practices to ground your emotional state
If you are really suffering from a low mood, or if you wish to discuss your menopausal symptoms, do seek advice from your GP or health professional.
Disclaimer:
Become™️ has a wonderful team of experts who all helped in the writing of this content. The opinions expressed within this page are the opinions of many people we asked, and from information we researched online. Become™️ is not responsible for the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this page. All information is provided on an as-is basis.
