Perimenopause and menopause can bring psychological symptoms that are often mistaken for primary mental health conditions. Sudden anxiety/palpitations, panic attacks, low mood, irritability, poor concentration, memory lapses, or emotional numbness can seem to appear out of nowhere. Women may be told, or self-diagnose depression, burnout, or stress, when the reality is that hormonal changes are contributing to their experience.
Hormonal Changes
Fluctuating oestrogen plays an important role in regulating serotonin and dopamine—brain chemicals involved in mood, motivation, and emotional regulation. As hormone levels change, women may experience symptoms that mimic or worsen anxiety, depression, ADHD, or even trauma-related difficulties. Brain fog can be mistaken for cognitive decline, while disrupted sleep can amplify emotional distress, creating a cycle that feels psychological but is also influenced by significant biological changes.
When menopause is overlooked, women may receive treatment for their symptoms without addressing the hormonal transition itself. While psychological therapies and, in some cases, medication can be highly beneficial, the most effective care often considers both mental health and hormonal factors together.
Recognising the Connection
Recognising the connection between menopause and mental health is not about dismissing psychological symptoms—it is about understanding them more fully. An accurate assessment can open the door to the right combination of medical care, psychological support, and lifestyle strategies, helping women navigate this stage of life with greater confidence, clarity, and self-compassion.
Menopause a Major Transition
Menopause is a period of major transition in a woman’s life. Change inevitably brings gains and losses; some challenges and some advantages. The relative balance of these factors, as well as our capacity to reflect and respond with openness, will influence adjustment to this change. The loss of fertility and menstruation have different meanings for different women. Women also have different responses to the physical change and symptoms of perimenopause. Each woman’s experience is unique.
If you are struggling with perimenopausal symptoms and feel that you would benefit from psychological support, we can help. Make an appointment with one of our team at the Centre for Clinical Psychology Carlton today.
References
- Australasian Menopause Society. (2023). Mood and the menopause. https://www.menopause.org.au
- National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). (2024). Menopause: Identification and management (NG23). https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng23
- Soares, C. N. (2019). Depression and menopause: An update on current knowledge and clinical management for this critical window. Medical Clinics of North America, 103(4), 651–667.
