Many women experience mood swings and fluctuating emotions during perimenopause, which is the transitional phase before menopause.

Hormonal changes can cause a range of symptoms that affect a woman’s well-being, including hot flashes, night sweats, fatigue, and weight gain. However, some women may also experience clinical depression, which is a persistent mood disorder that affects how you think, feel, and behave.

What is Clinical Depression?

Clinical depression, also known as major depressive disorder, is a serious condition that can cause intense feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and worthlessness.

The symptoms can be debilitating and interfere with daily activities, such as work, school, and socializing. Clinical depression is different from occasional feelings of sadness or grief, which are normal reactions to life’s ups and downs.

What Causes Clinical Depression?

Clinical depression is a complex condition that can have multiple causes, including:.

Genetics
Brain chemistry
Hormones
Stressful life events

During perimenopause, hormonal fluctuations can play a significant role in the onset of clinical depression.

Estrogen, which is a female hormone that regulates the menstrual cycle, can affect the levels of serotonin and other neurotransmitters in the brain that regulate mood. When estrogen levels are low, such as during perimenopause, it can lead to a decrease in serotonin, which can contribute to depression.

What Are the Symptoms of Clinical Depression?

The symptoms of clinical depression can vary from person to person, but some common signs include:.

Persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
Loss of interest in activities that used to be enjoyable
Changes in appetite or weight
Problems sleeping or sleeping too much
Loss of energy or fatigue
Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Thoughts of death or suicide

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider. They can help you determine if you have clinical depression and recommend appropriate treatment options.

What Are the Treatment Options for Clinical Depression?

The treatment options for clinical depression may vary depending on the severity of your symptoms and any underlying health conditions. Some common treatments include:.

Antidepressant medication
Psychotherapy
Light therapy
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)

Your healthcare provider can help you determine which treatment options are best for you based on your medical history and current symptoms.

What Can You Do to Manage Clinical Depression During Perimenopause?

In addition to medical treatment, there are lifestyle changes you can make to help manage clinical depression during perimenopause, including:.

Eating a balanced diet
Exercising regularly
Getting enough restful sleep
Reducing stress
Practicing relaxation techniques
Maintaining a social support system

Talking to a therapist or counselor can also help you develop coping strategies for managing the emotional challenges of perimenopause and depression.

When to Seek Help

If you are experiencing symptoms of depression that interfere with your daily life, it’s important to seek help.

Depression is a treatable condition, and early intervention can help improve your quality of life and prevent more serious health complications.

If you are having thoughts of suicide or self-harm, seek immediate medical attention or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255).

The Bottom Line

Perimenopause can be a challenging time for many women, and clinical depression is a common complication. If you are experiencing symptoms of depression, talk to your healthcare provider.

They can help you determine if you have clinical depression and recommend appropriate treatment options. With medical treatment and lifestyle changes, you can manage your symptoms and improve your overall well-being.