For this, we’ve got to look back at science. Estrogen, the hormone that controls the menstrual cycle also affects serotonin, the ‘feel-good’ hormone that promotes feelings of happiness. So when estrogen level declines, naturally, serotonin would also drop, causing irritability, anxiety, and sadness. Not to mention, the accompanied menopausal symptoms of sleep problems and insomnia can aggravate feelings of tiredness and worsen mood swings.
While antidepressants are largely available and may seem like a quick fix, they should not be used as the first-line treatment and are definitely not long-term solutions considering the side effects involved. Instead of that, try this: Yoga, meditation, and supportive therapy have been shown to help improve menopausal low mood, mood swings, and anxiety.
If you have frequent mood swings or other symptoms of depression that affect your daily life, seek support from your doctor and stay connected with your family and community. Remember that menopause is a natural part of life, not the end.