Depression among peri- and post-menopausal women: a review of literature

Varied evidenceshave been presented in literature about the link between menopause and depression. During menopausal transition, women experience uncomfortable symptoms due to the gradual depletion of the ovarian hormones. This hormonal imbalance predisposes peri- and post-menopausal women to the incapacitating depressive disorder which can adversely affect their behavior and way of life. The purpose of this systematic analysis of peer-reviewed literature is to explore the neurobiological and psychosocial factors that connect menopause and depression, as reported in studies in the past five years. Learning about these factors that contribute to depression during menopause can help women find ways to cope during this transitional stage. Health care practitioners should also be made aware that advice and counseling should be provided to women about the psychological effects of menopause. Further aims include educating women on how to manage the uncomfortable symptoms that can lead to depression. A clinical implication from this study is that women at this stage should be screened for depression to detect early symptoms of the disorder.