Low mood, anxiety, irritability and poor sleep are common around the menopause. What is happening, what the evidence-based options are, when to seek help urgently — and where homoeopathic care fits alongside.
Mood changes are among the most distressing — and least talked about — parts of the menopause transition. Dr. Meenakshi Shriwas's doctoral (PhD) research was on post-menopausal hormonal mood disorders, and she sees these concerns often in clinic. This guide sets out what is known, what helps, and when to seek help.
During perimenopause and after the last period, hormone levels fluctuate and then fall. Many women notice:
Life events at this age — teenagers, ageing parents, work pressure — often add to the load. A previous history of depression, premenstrual mood problems or postnatal depression can make symptoms more likely.
The two overlap, and both deserve attention. Low mood that is persistent, affects daily life, or comes with hopelessness needs assessment by a doctor — whatever its cause.
The UK's National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) updated its menopause guideline in November 2024. It includes hormone replacement therapy (HRT) among the options for menopausal symptoms, and recommends cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) as an option for menopause-associated low mood and anxiety, and for hot flushes, night sweats and sleep problems. Discuss HRT's benefits and risks for you personally with your doctor or gynaecologist.
Many women seek homoeopathic care alongside — not instead of — HRT, counselling or other treatment. A homoeopathic consultation looks at the whole picture: sleep, hot flushes, mood, digestion, history and life circumstances. Prescribed treatment is never stopped, and progress is reviewed honestly at each follow-up. Treatment duration and response are highly individual.
Read also: menopause symptoms and supportive care · मेनोपॉज़ के लक्षण (हिंदी).
Consult Dr. Meenakshi. In Udaipur: Monday to Saturday, 10 AM – 1 PM by appointment, and 6 PM – 9 PM walk-in with no appointment needed. Online consultations are available by video call or WhatsApp, with medicines couriered from the clinic.
Yes. Fluctuating and falling hormone levels around the menopause commonly bring low mood, anxiety, irritability and poor sleep, often alongside life pressures.
NICE's 2024 menopause guideline includes HRT among options for menopausal symptoms and recommends CBT as an option for menopause-associated low mood and anxiety. Discuss options with your doctor.
If it is persistent, affects daily life, or comes with hopelessness or thoughts of self-harm — seek help promptly; for thoughts of self-harm, seek help today.
Many women use homoeopathic care alongside HRT or counselling. Prescribed treatment should never be stopped; tell all your doctors what you take.
This article is for general awareness and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Homoeopathic treatment is individualised; responses vary from person to person and no specific outcome is promised or guaranteed. Continue any medication prescribed by your treating doctor, and seek urgent local medical care for any warning sign described above.
Related reading: Menopause symptoms · With allopathic medicines · Dr. Meenakshi's research · Homeopathy guide