Perimenopause can be physically and emotionally overwhelming. Many women start this transition in their early 40s, but it may begin sooner and last two to eight years. During this time, ovulation becomes irregular, before stopping. Perimenopause also brings many unpleasant symptoms, such as hot flashes, mood swings and night sweats. For some women, this transition may contribute to depressive symptoms, making this time of life even more challenging. But there is hope.

Research has found that perimenopausal women are at a higher risk of developing depression than premenopausal women. Hormonal changes, physical symptoms and life stressors are some of the factors that increase this risk. Knowing what may contribute to depression can help you take steps to protect or improve your mental health. If you think you’re facing both depression and perimenopause, you don’t have to navigate this challenge alone. We’re here to support you through this transition at Lightfully.

Let’s explore eight ways perimenopause can contribute to depression so you can find out how to lower your risk. 

8 ways perimenopause can contribute to depression

While perimenopause comes with many challenges, support is available to help you through this transition. Learning about the physical and emotional changes that may take place can help you recognize the signs and know when to reach out for support. At Lightfully, we’ve guided many women through perimenopause with deep compassion, and we can help you navigate this time, too.

Here are eight ways perimenopause may increase the risk of depression:

• Hormonal fluctuations

During perimenopause, estrogen and progesterone levels shift. These fluctuating hormones affect neurotransmitters that regulate mood, like serotonin and dopamine. When hormone levels increase and decrease quickly, they can lead to mood swings, irritability and a higher risk of depression. 

• Sleep disturbances

Night sweats, insomnia and waking up frequently make it difficult for many women to get enough sleep during perimenopause. Inadequate sleep can make it harder to control stress and may also worsen your mood. Over time, lack of sleep may contribute to poor mental health and depression.

• Physical symptoms

Perimenopause can cause many physical symptoms, including:

• Hot flashes
• Headaches
• Joint pain
• Fatigue

These symptoms can make anyone feel uncomfortable. They can negatively impact your mood and make it more difficult to stay physically active. When you’re facing physical symptoms along with emotional ones, it can greatly impact your mental health and well-being.

• Life stressors

Perimenopause often overlaps with many other stressful midlife events. You may also be caring for aging parents, seeing older children leave home, or facing career transitions. These stressors may make you feel sad, overwhelmed or depressed.

• Social changes

During this stage of life, many women experience changes in their social circles, family relationships or daily routines. If this is happening to you, you may not feel like you have enough social support, which may increase the risk of depression. But help is always available. 

• Negative feelings about aging

Changes in weight and signs of aging can affect your body image. Some women experience an emotional response to these changes, especially if they feel pressure to look a certain way. These negative feelings may lower self-esteem and contribute to depressive symptoms. 

• Preexisting conditions or vulnerabilities

Research indicates that some women may be more sensitive to hormonal changes during perimenopause, especially if they have a history of:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Postpartum depression
• Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
• Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)

These preexisting factors can cause women to experience stronger symptoms and increase the risk of depression.

• Relationship issues

Stressful relationships can make this phase of life even more challenging. Conflicts with a partner or challenges in sexual intimacy may make you feel sadder, lonelier or more frustrated. 

Find expert support for depression at Lightfully

Perimenopause can bring many unpredictable physical and emotional changes that can be difficult to manage. But the good news is that you don’t have to face this condition alone. The right support, understanding and care can help you find the relief and stability you need. 

At Lightfully, our deeply compassionate experts provide evidence-based, whole-person-centered care. Rather than treating your symptoms individually, our licensed clinical therapists work with you to address all of the factors affecting your well-being. We offer multiple levels of care and can customize your treatment to support you through perimenopause and beyond, finding safe and effective ways to ease depression. 

Change is possible. When you’re ready to take the first step, reach out to our Admissions Concierge Team. We’ll take the next steps together, toward the fullest, brightest version of you.