How does menopause impact mental health?

Sadly, 15-20% of women will have new onset major depressive disorder (MDD) in midlife. Many more will experience anxiety. There is a 2 to 4-fold increase in behavioral health complaints in midlife among women with a previous diagnosis of MDD. VMS (vasomotor symptoms) elevate the risk of depression due to sleep disturbance primarily. Menopause symptoms negatively impact a woman’s mood, sleep, and ability to function in her relationships. Therefore, this health transition not only impacts women, but also their spouses/partners.