Anxiety can start with the anticipation of a stressful situation, experience, or event, or it may develop gradually over time. It’s a mood-related symptom that some women experience during menopause. Anxiety may worsen at night or occur intermittently as hormone levels fluctuate.
When estrogen levels drop during perimenopause and menopause, levels of another hormone, cortisol, can rise. Elevated cortisol is associated with increased stress and anxiety. Anxiety affects one in three menopausal women and may contribute to panic attacks.
Anxiety and depression are common symptoms of perimenopause and menopause. In response, many women turn to various coping mechanisms, including excessive exercise, alcohol use, or even denial.
Mental health during menopause is influenced by many factors. Fluctuating hormone levels, life stressors, sleep disturbances, changes in body image, and the visible signs of aging can all contribute to mood swings, heightened stress, anxiety, and a decreased sense of well-being during perimenopause.