Depression & Menopause

Women may be more vulnerable to depression during perimenopause, a transitional time in mid-life when menstrual periods gradually lighten and become less frequent. Minor mood problems, insomnia, and hot flashes are common during this time. In some women, these symptoms progress to major depression and, of significance for those with bipolar disorder, the risk for major depression is greatest in women who have a history of depression in the past. For further reading, David Kahn et al present Depression during the Transition to Menopause: A Guide for Patients and Families