 |
|
page 6 | page 7 | page 8 | page 9 | page 10 | page 11 references | patient handout | table of contents | test
Alterations in MoodGiven the effects of estrogen in the brain, the precipitous declines of estrogen that occur with menopause are often associated with alterations in mood. Mood alterations typically include irritability, short-lived mood swings, crying spells, and feelings of sadness. These changes are not universal or inevitable, and there is conflicting evidence from studies. A literature review shows that several epidemiological studies of women selected from the general population, rather than menopause clinics, have failed to show an increase in depressive symptoms.(11) On the other hand, there is overwhelming evidence that menopausal women who seek help from healthcare providers have significant psychological symptoms.(8) Moreover, estrogen supplementation has been shown to enhance mood and decrease depressive symptoms. This has been dramatically demonstrated among women who underwent surgical menopause for benign disease.(8) The women who took estrogen reported improved mood and decreased sadness or feeling blue.It is important for nurses to make an effort to help patients sort out any underlying causes of psychological symptoms that surface with the menopause. Some symptoms may stem from existing stressors in the patient's personal life. Women of lower socioeconomic status are more likely to have more psychological symptoms around the time of menopause.(8) And a number of other factors contribute to mood changes including:
|
|
previous: Cognition next: Depression |
© 2000 American Nurses Association