Will hormone replacement therapy help my mental health?

A Guide to Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) and Mental Health

Hormones control nearly every function in the human body. Acting as messengers, they regulate processes like sleep, digestion, and mood. For women, hormonal imbalances during menopause can cause significant physical and emotional changes, often disrupting daily life.

At Omniya Clinic, we understand how overwhelming menopause can feel. This guide explores how hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can address the mental and physical health challenges of menopause, with practical advice backed by the latest research.

What Happens to Hormones During Menopause?

Menopause marks the natural end of a woman’s reproductive years, but the hormonal changes leading up to it can feel anything but natural. During perimenopause—the phase that can last several years before menopause—the ovaries gradually produce less oestrogen and progesterone. These two key hormones regulate menstrual cycles, bone health, and mood.

The decline in hormone levels affects more than just the reproductive system. Research shows that oestrogen also influences neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which are critical for mood regulation. As oestrogen drops, it’s common to experience mood swings, anxiety, or even depression.

For a deeper dive into the role of hormones, explore our guide to hormones.

Who Is Most at Risk of Mental Health Issues During Menopause?

While every woman experiences menopause differently, some are more likely to face mental health challenges than others. Genetics, lifestyle, and pre-existing conditions all contribute to how menopause impacts mental wellbeing.

High-Risk Groups

1. Women with a history of severe PMS: Research suggests that women who suffered from intense premenstrual syndrome (PMS) earlier in life are more likely to experience mood swings during menopause.
2. Postpartum depression survivors: Those who struggled with depression after childbirth may be more vulnerable to emotional challenges during menopause.
3. History of clinical depression: Women with a history of depression are at a higher risk of developing mental health issues during menopause.

A 2022 study in the Journal of Psychiatric Research confirms that women with pre-existing mood or anxiety disorders are significantly more likely to experience severe menopausal symptoms.

Menopausal Mental Health Symptoms

Hot flushes and night sweats may be the most well-known symptoms of menopause, but mental health struggles are equally common. Unfortunately, they’re often overlooked or misattributed to stress or ageing.

Common Symptoms

• Mood swings: Sudden, unexplained changes in emotional state.
• Anxiety: Persistent feelings of unease or fear, sometimes escalating to panic attacks.
• Depression: A prolonged sense of sadness, hopelessness, or lack of motivation.
• Irritability: Increased sensitivity or frustration with day-to-day tasks.
• Brain fog: Difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, or a general sense of mental cloudiness.

Recognising these symptoms as signs of hormonal imbalance, rather than simply "getting older," is key to seeking the right help.

Can HRT Help?

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a medical treatment that replaces declining hormones. By restoring oestrogen and progesterone to more balanced levels HRT can help with many of the mental health symptoms of menopause.

How HRT Works

1. Boosting serotonin production: Oestrogen is involved in the production and efficiency of serotonin (the “feel good” hormone). Replacing oestrogen can improve mood and reduce anxiety.
2. Reducing cortisol spikes: Hormonal imbalance can increase cortisol (stress hormone) levels. HRT reduces this effect and promotes a calmer mental state.
3. Improving sleep quality: Improving sleep patterns: By addressing night sweats and insomnia HRT indirectly helps mental health through better rest.

Alternatives to HRT for Mental Health

HRT can be life changing for many women but it’s not for everyone. At Omniya Clinic, we offer a holistic approach to managing menopause symptoms, exploring a range of options tailored to your needs.

Other Treatment Options

• Talking therapies: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) has shown significant success in helping women manage anxiety and depression during menopause.
• Lifestyle changes: Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and mindfulness practices can support mental wellbeing.
• Medication: In some cases, antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications prescribed by a GP can help manage symptoms.

Real-Life Example: Jane’s HRT Journey

Jane, a 52-year-old business consultant, came to Omniya Clinic feeling overwhelmed by mood swings and persistent brain fog. She had tried mindfulness exercises and adjusted her diet, but nothing seemed to make a difference.

After a comprehensive consultation, Jane began HRT under the care of our specialists. Within six weeks, she noticed a dramatic improvement. “It’s like the fog has lifted,” she shared. “I feel more like myself again and can handle stress without breaking down.”

Is HRT Right for You?

The decision to start HRT is personal and depends on your medical history, lifestyle and the severity of your symptoms. During your consultation at Omniya we’ll do a full health assessment to help you make an informed decision. HRT isn’t risk free. Recent studies including one in The Lancet (2021) show a small increased risk of certain cancers and blood clots for some women. But for many women the benefits far outweigh the risks when HRT is managed by an experienced medical team.

How Omniya Clinic Can Help

At Omniya Clinic, we offer compassionate and evidence based care. Our team of specialists will listen, guide and support you every step of the way.

What to Expect at Your Consultation

1. Medical history review: We’ll discuss your symptoms, medical history, and overall health.
2. Hormonal testing: Blood tests may be conducted to assess your hormone levels.
3. Personalised recommendations: Based on your results, we’ll suggest the best treatment options, whether that’s HRT or alternative therapies.

Take the First Step Towards Balance

Menopause doesn’t have to mean discomfort and emotional stress. You can take control and feel like yourself again.

Book your consultation at Omniya Clinic today. Call us at 020 7584 4777 or enquire online to learn more about how we can help.

Let us help you take care of your health and wellbeing.