Recently I had a conversation with a lady about terrible heavy periods also low mood, she’d suffered depression in the past. Low mood is frequently described as a heaviness, a feeling which you’re unable to snap out of. This can be debilitating, effecting your family, relationships and day to day life. Sometimes lasting weeks or longer.
Interesting research shows there are links between oestrogen and serotonin.
What is serotonin?
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter. A chemical messenger between nerve cells in the brain and around the body. Often referred to as the ‘happy hormone’
Transition
During the transition phase (perimenopause) we know hormones fluctuate effecting our body in different ways. Oestrogen plays an important part in stabilising our mood, it is essential for the production of serotonin. Remember the luteal phase of our menstrual cycle, the time just before our period we could be in a foul mood! This luteal phase is when oestrogen usually lower. Of course in the reproductive years hormones return to normal. At the time of perimenopause and menopause oestrogen declines resulting in mood swings and anxiety for many ladies. Unfortunately on occasions leads to depression.
Ladies who have children may have experienced low mood after giving birth. Again due to the link between lower oestrogens and serotonin. Right after child birth oestrogen levels drop off in-turn reducing serotonin, resulting in low mood. Referred to as ‘baby blues’ thankfully for most temporary.
Outside Impacts
- Many women are care givers to older family members. Juggling work, demanding careers plus the normal day to day living. No imagination required!
- Maybe you’ve suffered mood swings, anxiety or depression in the past. You could be more susceptible during this transition phase.
- Anxiety impacts sleep. We know how lack of sleep effects mood.
- Alcohol may give an immediate high but could lead to a crutch.
If you’re struggling speak with your GP or health professional. There’s no weakness or reward for suffering in silence.
Lastly
I tip my hat to all the ladies who often tell me they have no symptoms. If you are sailing through with the greatest of ease, absolutely fantastic. However, none of us has walked in the other persons shoe’s, this we know for sure. Let’s stand together, support each other and the decisions each of us makes.
Are you feeling full of energy? Sleeping well?
Leave a Reply