During menopause, women may experience many undesirable symptoms, some of which can have an effect on your loved ones and other people around you; a change in mood is one of these. Specifically, feeling angry and irritable is a common state for women who are going through menopause. Many women find that they struggle with anger and irritability, particularly because of the negative impact they can have on their relationships, and general attitude towards daily life. Useful information about the reasons behind anger and irritability, and how these feelings can be addressed.
Hormonal Changes Cause Anger and Irritability
The presence and interactions of hormones in the body affect women throughout the different processes of their lives. During menopause, hormonal fluctuations are responsible for many symptoms, one of which is a shift in mood. Specifically, estrogen levels deplete, which can cause changes to the chemical make-up in the brain, they impact on serotonin; if estrogen decreases, so do serotonin levels. This means that a woman's mood is likely to worsen.
There Are Different Triggers for Anger and Irritability
The general increase in sensitivity caused by hormonal imbalance throughout menopause means that being angry and irritable can be triggered by many different things:
- Unexpected changes to life, such as to do with relationships, employment, or housing
- Lack of exercise
- Unhealthy foods
- Sleep disorders
Anger and Irritability Have Many Signs and Symptoms
Feeling angry and irritable can cause people to react in different ways. Many women who experience this symptom of menopause may find that they suffer from the following:
Impatience with others. Women sometimes become less tolerant of opposing views or attitudes, which can often lead to arguments. These may be disproportional to the situation at hand.
Overreacting. Seemingly ordinary circumstances ( i.e., minor problems or setbacks), which did not bother them before the start of menopause, appear to be more of importance.
Insomnia. It can also be caused by anger and irritation. When the mind is occupied with feeling stress and anxiety, it is common for people to have trouble sleeping.
Anger and Irritability Can Be Easily Treated
Different women may find that different coping methods work for them. There are a wide variety of medications and therapies available, so it may take some research to find the right one.
In addition to seeking professional advice, it may be possible to alleviate anger and irritability simply by making a few lifestyle changes. For example, many women benefit from taking relaxing baths, practicing yoga, and meditation, spending time with friends and family, and ensuring that time is taken for oneself frequently. These are all positive actions which are known to help improve mood, and are suggested to anyone suffering from anger and irritability.
Women deal with anger and irritability during menopause in many ways, from changing their diet and exercise regime, to taking time out to meditate and thoroughly relax. It is important to address feelings of anger and irritation, especially to ensure that your relationships are not affected; the support of friends and family at this time is invaluable. Read more about how to address these problems.
Sources
- Women's Health Research Institute, Northwestern University. (2013). How Hormone Depletion Affects You. Retrieved April 18, 2017, from http://menopause.northwestern.edu/content/how-hormone-depletion-affects-you
- BC Medical Journal. (2001). Depression and emotional aspects of the menopause. Retrieved April 18, 2017, from http://www.bcmj.org/article/depression-and-emotional-aspects-menopause