Menapause & Depression?

Menapause & Depression Just like to hear other peoples comments? There are certain symtoms that are the same in these two subjects, but how do you define the difference? would appreciate genuine advice

Menopause & Depression can occur at the same time. However, Menopause, is a physical condition. When a woman has had no period for a full year, this is termed "Menopause",which usually occurs in the late forties to early-mid fiftes.Depression can occur at anytime in a persons' life. The symptoms are quite different. Menopausal women suffer from hot flashes, night sweats, irritability, prone to cry easily, mood swings etc. and can be confirmed by symptoms and blood tests. Depression is different, in the sense that most menopausal symptoms aren't included in the symptoms of depression. Depression: lack of energy/motivation, sleeping too much, lack of interest in things that you would normally enjoy, decreased/increased appetite, feeling of sadness/ lonliness. Avoiding loved ones/family members. As you can tell, the symptoms are different. I hope that this helps. Source(s): Medical Professional,RN.Personnel experience

Depression often recurs, and doesn't involve hot flashes: menopause only happens once, later in a woman's life, and can be treated with hormones: depression can't.
Menopause is caused by natural hormonal changes in a womens body as they pass beyond child bearing age, depression is a reaction to difficult life circumstance, not getting emotional needs met and using our innate resources ineffectively to meet these essential needs. They are completely different things, however menopause could potentially lead to depression in some women because of the feelings and behaviour the fluctuating hormones create.

The key is to use our resources to 'innoculate' us against depression at any phase in life (menopause or not) , get balanced amounts of sleep, and always be aware of how well our emotional needs are being met in our lives.