Many women experience emotional changes during the menopause transition. These can include feelings of low mood, mood swings and a reduced interest in things they normally enjoy. They may also experience increased anxiety, which can be frightening, isolating and difficult to understand, as there often is not an obvious cause.

Many women find themselves without their normal patience and struggle to cope with irritability and feelings of rage, which can make them feel out of control.

For many women, these are the most difficult symptoms to cope with, and because these symptoms may occur without hot flushes or period changes, the connection isn’t always made, and so women can be wrongly prescribed antidepressants.

There are lots of things that can improve emotional wellbeing in the menopause, including talking therapies and meditation, which are available on the NHS. Prioritising sleep, exercise and a nutritious diet, as well as reducing caffeine and alcohol intake can be helpful also.

Importantly, HRT has been shown to be a really effective treatment and should be offered first line in suitable women seeking treatment for menopausal low mood, so it’s worth speaking to your doctor to see if it’s a viable option for you.