Depression and Sadness in Perimenopause

Women always assume that there is no treatment for this. The good news is this assumption is wrong. For most women, experiencing some degree of depression during the perimenopause stage is unavoidable. This is because the root cause for depression before menopause lies in hormonal imbalances.

Depression and Sadness in Perimenopause

It’s a very common symptom of perimenopause, with up to 30% of women suffering from it. It’s important to maintain the right perspective during this time. Menopause and perimenopause symptoms such as depression may affect all aspects of life and be unpleasant. But this period should not be viewed as an illness, but as a normal, natural change.

HerbalPerimenopause Depression Treatments

St. Johns Wort: There have been over 20 clinical trials that have helped show that St. John’s Wort is as effective as antidepressants for mild to moderate depression, including perimenopause depression. It also has fewer side effects. Patience is needed as it can take up to six weeks for the full benefits of taking this herb to be experienced. It does have some side effects that should be given attention to such as dry mouth, indigestion, fatigue, and dizziness. It may also cause photosensitivity so extra precautions should be taken to protect the eyes and skin from sunlight.

> Phytoestrogenic Herbs

Certain plants, such as Black Cohosh, produce estrogenic components. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology supports the use of Black Cohosh in treating menopause symptoms like depression during perimenopause. The reason care should be taken with phytoestrogenic herbs is that taking them for too long could be detrimental.

Because outside plant hormones are being added regularly, the body may begin to become less capable in its production of natural estrogen. This can further decrease hormone levels and cause an even deeper and more serious depression. Other phytoestrogenic herbs include Dong Quai, Red Clover, and Gingko Biloba.

> Non-estrogenic Herbs

These herbs do not introduce any chemical structures similar to estrogen. Instead they nourish the endocrine system, which controls hormone production, so that the body itself can maintain healthy estrogen levels. Recent research has cited the possibility that non-estrogenic herbal therapies are a safer and healthier alternative than Hormone Replacement Therapy.

> Macafem

The most recommended non-estrogenic herb for the depression perimenopause stage is Macafem. So far, it’s the only one whose results and affects have been seriously studied and approved by medical professionals and institutions. Many alternative medicine professionals also strongly encourage its use because of its highly effective ability to balance hormone levels. It acts in a way that nourishes the pituitary and endocrine glands so that they can function at optimal capacity.

This encourages the balanced production of your own estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone levels. It also provides other benefits in the form of high concentrations of vitamins, minerals, and important nutrients. An added bonus is its high concentration of protein, which makes it a great source of energy. Along with all this, Macafem has no known side effects and also help relieve other perimenopause symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, irregular periods, and more.

Does Omega 3 Fatty Acids Help with Depression and Perimenopause?

Omega 3’s is a good type of fat essential for normal brain function and can alleviate depression, including depression in perimenopausal. We can’t produce these on our own but must obtain them through the foods we eat. Several studies have linked a deficiency in Omega 3 acids with depression symptoms. Other studies show that, when they are taken along with antidepressants, better results are achieved compared to using antidepressants alone.

Cold water fish are the best source of these acids but they can also contain mercury, PCB’s, and other chemicals. A cleaner source is fish oil capsules because these chemicals are removed via filtering. Read the labels when comparing brands and choose those that have EPA and DHA, the key active components needed for treating depression.

Any woman considering an herbal remedy for treating perimenopausal depression should thoroughly study the different types to determine which one best suits her needs. The same is true for other natural supplements that can provide relief. If you’re taking medications and other substances, you should be careful with any harmful interactions that may occur. Once you put together the possible treatment list for your premenopause depression, make sure to consult your doctor they will take into account your medical history and help you determine which treatment is best for you.