Depression has been shown to be prevalent during menopause, affecting as many as 70 per cent of women transitioning into menopause, say researchers.The study, published in the journal of The North American Menopause Society (NAMS), not only confirms the high prevalence of depression but also the greatest risk factors for it in postmenopausal women, as well as any relationships with anxiety and fear of death. "The findings are consistent with existing literature and emphasize the high prevalence of depressive symptoms in midlife women, particularly those with a history of depression or anxiety and chronic health conditions," said study researcher Stephanie Faubion, NAMS medical director.With the decrease in hormone production during menopause, women are more prone to a number of psychological problems, including depression, anxiety, irritability, nervousness, sadness, restlessness, memory problems, lack of confidence and concentration, and a loss of libido.

At the same time, as women age, the fear of death becomes more pronounced.

Depression and anxiety, which are the most common psychological problems that occur during the menopause transition, likely increase that fear, the researchers said.

For the current findings, the research team picked 485 postmenopausal Turkish women aged between 35 and 78 years.

The researchers sought to determine the frequency of depressive symptoms in postmenopausal women, the variables affecting it, and the levels of anxiety and fear of death.

They then evaluated the relationship between all these variables and postmenopausal depression.

They found that depression in postmenopausal women is a common and important health problem that requires further study.

In this specific study, 41 per cent of the participants were confirmed to experience some form of depression.

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Going through menopause increases risk of depression in 70% women, says study - Times of India

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