Menopause and Mental Health Services in Brighton, London and Online
Understanding the Connection - Supporting Emotional Well-being Through the Midlife Transition
Menopause is a natural biological process marking the end of a woman’s reproductive years. While it’s often discussed in terms of physical symptoms—like hot flashes, night sweats, and changes in menstrual cycles—its impact on mental health is equally significant but less frequently addressed. At Flint Healthcare, we believe that a holistic approach to menopause includes attention to emotional well-being.
What Is Menopause?
Menopause is officially diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. While this is most typically between ages 45 and 55, this can occur at a much younger age and can be very sudden in the case of surgical menopause.
The transitional phase leading up to menopause, known as perimenopause, can begin several years earlier and is often where the most pronounced hormonal fluctuations and mood symptoms occur.
Hormonal Shifts and Brain Chemistry
The hormonal changes of menopause—primarily the decline in estrogen and progesterone—can influence neurotransmitters in the brain such as serotonin, dopamine, and GABA, which are critical to mood regulation, sleep, and cognition.
Some women report increased symptoms of:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Irritability
- Mood swings
- Brain fog
- Sleep disturbances
For women with a prior history of depression, bipolar disorder, or premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), the menopausal transition can lead to particular issues with depression.
Women who experience symptoms of ADHD (whether formally diagnosed or not) may notice worsening symptoms during the perimenopause due to the biological effect of shifting hormones on brain function. This can result in quite pronounced difficulty with focus and attention, mood swings and emotional dysregulation.
Mental Health Treatment Options
Managing mental health during menopause often requires a multifaceted approach. At Flint Healthcare, we offer:
- Comprehensive mental health assessments and support: following a holistic person-centred consultation, medication such as antidepressants or anxiolytics may be considered for moderate to severe symptoms. In some cases, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can be a helpful component to treatment and this can either be discussed with your GP or we can provide details of local doctors with a special interest in menopause and HRT, who we can work closely with.
- Lifestyle Advice: Nutrition, physical activity, sleep hygiene, and stress reduction practices (such as yoga or meditation) can have a powerful impact on emotional well-being.
- Bespoke psychological therapies: providing evidence-based treatment for mood and anxiety symptoms during menopause and the perimenopause.
Common Mental Health Challenges During Menopause
Research suggests that women are 2 to 4 times more likely to experience depressive symptoms during perimenopause. These may be due to both biological changes and psychosocial stressors—such as ageing, changing family roles, or health concerns.
Even women without a prior history of anxiety may develop new or worsening symptoms during menopause. Common manifestations include generalized anxiety, panic attacks, and heightened stress responses.
Many women describe difficulties with memory, attention, and processing speed—often referred to as “brain fog.” While typically temporary, these changes can be distressing and interfere with work or daily functioning.
Hot flashes and night sweats can disrupt sleep, leading to insomnia or poor-quality sleep. Chronic sleep disruption can in turn exacerbate mood and anxiety symptoms.
Psychological and Social Factors
Menopause often coincides with significant life changes: children leaving home, ageing parents, evolving identities, changing relationships and career transitions. These psychosocial stressors can amplify emotional symptoms and may require therapeutic support.
When to Seek Help
If you’re experiencing persistent sadness, anxiety, irritability, or cognitive issues that interfere with your quality of life, we can help.
Menopause is a complex transition—biologically, emotionally, and socially. If you or someone you care about is navigating this stage of life and may benefit from mental health support, please do contact us. We have clinicians who specialise in women’s mental health and offer compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your needs.
Latest Mental Health Posts
Medical Review
The information on this page has been written and reviewed for accuracy by Dr Richard Bowskill MA, MB, BChir, MRCP, MRCPsych
Our Psychiatry and Psychology Clinics
Our London and Brighton psychiatry and psychology clinics offer the highest standard of mental health care. Online appointments are also available.
Make an Appointment
Booking an appointment is easy and confidential.
Simply call or email and our helpful staff will arrange your appointment for a convenient time.