Perimenopause may raise risk of one mental health condition by 40%, study finds

In the years before menopause, individuals can experience various symptoms, including emotional shifts like depression. A recent study has measured the risk of depression during perimenopause, finding that women in this stage are about 40% more likely to experience depression compared to premenopausal women. Perimenopause typically occurs three to five years before menopause and is characterized by fluctuating estrogen and progesterone levels, leading to mood swings and other symptoms. The study reviewed data from multiple global studies and highlighted the importance of awareness and support for perimenopausal women. Depression during perimenopause should not be attributed solely to cultural or lifestyle factors, as hormone variability appears to play a significant role. Clinicians should be mindful of depressive symptoms in women transitioning into menopause and offer appropriate care and treatment.