Hello ladies, I wanted to ask if some of you experienced depression during the first year of menopause? I cannot say that this has been a joyful experience in general, but it's really depression that's getting to me. I cannot explain it, but I guess I just cannot cope with the changes, it feels like I'm less of a woman, that the life will not be the same again, etc. Can someone relate?
Hi Elli / so sad to read your post - but sadly yes depression is a huge part of meno / just have to scroll through the posts here and other meno sites to discover how absolutely awful it is for us all. I think I have at least a dozen symptoms but sadness is the one I just can't deal with - have had to look into medication as great diet exercise and work were just not enough. Talk to a health prof as soon as you can to help you take care - Loui xx
Thank you, Rhino2015, I did scroll through other discussions, but mainly notices messages about physical symptoms and anxiety. I am this kind of person who tries to avoid any kind of medication at any cost unless it's absolutely necessary. Did you try something like finding a new passion in life? I read this advice on some website and I really wanted to try it, nut I just don't feel passionate about anything at the moment. I guess I do need to go see a specialist. Thank you a lot!
Yes I also been through this.I had surgery last sep.after the surgery I to felt alot of different feelings at one time.I could not explain how I was feeling to anyone I was sad confused and just mad with all the other changes to my body..I started to gain weight having hot flashes.Now My body is adjusting.u found the correct meds.and I'm working out.So what I'm saying is u have find Wht works for u.But please eat right and exercise.I'll b praying for u.keep me updated
Was your surgery a hysterectomy? Did your ovaries stop working or were they removed? I suffered horrifically after "that" surgery... biggest regret ever! HRT has helped but not a "fix all." But the changes to my figure have been just as difficult to accept.
Yes I had a total hysterectomy..ovaries to.I had cysts all over my uterus and ovaries
Have you experienced any severe hair or skin changes along with the severe "classic" menopausal symptoms? Are you on HRT?
Yes, depression was the worst! I am in surgical menopause (ovaries and uterus removed unnecessarily) and I quickly spiraled into a suicidal anxious mess despite never having been depressed or anxiety ridden before. I aged at lightning speed. And that was just the tip of the iceberg. I won't elaborate on all the other horrific symptoms unless someone wants to know. No warning at all from my doctor... in fact the opposite... acted like it would be "normal" menopause.
Have you tried anything to address the depression - exercise or medication of some sort (HRT or anti-depressants)? I hope you find something to help!
Yrs it looks as if my hair is thinning.I thought I was tripping.lol....but it's thinning.Yes I'mThe patch at the lowest dose.it's wonderful no more night sweats no hot flashes.Thk God For Jesus😂😂 it's been great.I still have mood swings.sometimes. Do anyone have swelling in the feet?I dnt know where it's coming from.always remember u are a beautiful woman and this to shall pass.it will get better I promise.Dnt give up.I have good days and bad.Yr body mind and spirit all have to line up .
Elli,
Go to some of the past posts, were all suffering pretty bad here. It's beyond depression my friend, its changed who we once were. I cannot stand this feeling anymore
Thank you a lot for sharing your experience and your advice. I will try do and I hope everything gets better for you! It's all only temporary.
I'm seeing more and more how much this subject is "hidden", noone ever talks about it, noone warns you, why are women of our age so neglected? I was trying to get into exercise but I didn't feel motivated enough. I will harder now that I see so much support!
Sorry for not seeing other discussions. I was thinking maybe we could just create something like an awareness group where we would support one another?
I do have physical symptoms, but what's really bothering me is depression. Thank you a lot!
Hi again, yes tried the finding something new, but nothing helped I was in a sad dark place for a while. Due to work and family I had to go with medication as everyone was suffering with me. I hear you when you say you are not passionate about anything, I was the same too. Start with your mental health nurse, guarantee she knows of many in the same boat, experiencing all the meno related 'other' baggage too. Start there and see how you go, should be one at a hospital and not have to wait to get into see her. Keep us all posted, keep your mind busy with music or a podcast etc, also try some mindfull meditation have just heard of it and done a few free online sessions it is great so far.
Loui xx
Hi Ellie,
You will find that support here
A 5 day bout of depression where I could not get out bed without crying is what caused me to go see my doctor. That and no period for 8 months. I am only 44 and recently found out I'm postmenopausal. And yes... I go through moments where I'm good and an hour later I'm a total mess. Whi h sucks because I ha e always been a happy mom & teacher. I literally went through menopause in less than 2 years and I think my body is trying to recoup!
I did some extensive research on HRT and found that the risk of cancer decrease whe . Progesterone is used alongside Estrogen which h shouldn't be taken alone unless you have already had a hysterectomy. It also helps with high cholesterol (mine is all of sudden very high!) and osteoporosis. My gyno said it is better than being on the pill... So I'm doing more research and will see...
There's lots of literature out there that can help with using certain foods and vitamins to help combat some of these awful symptoms. I wish you luck on this journey and will post if I hear of any other helpful hints.