Menopause & depression

[Pusskat]

I am going through menopause and have been for 8 years. I have night sweats and mood swings and depression where I want to die but would never do it again as tried when I was 15 and know yes your pain will end but is worse for your loved ones. I can't go on hrt as have breast cancer in family. Tried every over the counter products and either don't work or I have a reaction to it. I am unable to work because of other health issues and struggle to do any exercise except walking and even that I am sore after. I get no handouts from the government as husband works and they say I will be fine after I have surgery but doctors won't do as 80% mortality rate. I am not really worried about weight gain as I sometimes go for 5 days not eating because of abdominal pain. Sorry to hijack this post but this is my first post and unsure how to start new topic.

[Former-Member]

Hello @Pusskat

Welcome to the Forums  I hope you find this a safe place for you to come to for support!

Wow, it sounds like the last 8 years have been tough, having to manage the menopause, as well as the depression, health issues, and suicidal thoughts. Things can start to become very overwhelming. I know you have tried over-the-counter products, I am wondering if you have seen your GP about the things you are experiencing at the moment?

It sounds like a big protective factor for you are your loved ones, can you tell us a bit about them?  It is good to know you want to keep safe and seek help and advice. I hope there are some people around that will be able to suggest some ideas and give support around this topic.

@Neb, @MoonGal, and @eth, perhaps you might have some thoughts and insights to share? Also, if you would like more information on the effects of menopause you can call the Australian Menopause Centre on 1300 883 405. Also, seeking a mental health plan from your GP, or even calling Life Line on 13 11 14, may be beneficial to you.   

Take care of yourself,

jac-in-the-box 

[Pusskat]

I talked to my go and he said to try or the ounter tablets and dismissed it. Have changed my doctor but just new so developing repause 

[Former-Member]

I've gone through premature menopause and I can understand/relate to what you are saying. You could ask for a referral to an endocrinologist- they mite be able to help you some more.

[Heart]

Good morning @Pusskat, By the sounds of it money may be stretch a bit but would a nathropath be worth considerring? An endocrionologist would be another great start as was surgested earlier. If your not eating a great deal you must make sure you are keeping up your fluids so you don't dehydrate. plenty of water, sip not scull.

[Pusskat]

yes money is very tight. since i can't work so the only specialist i see it at a hospital as can't afford it. i have tried natopaths before for other things and found them not that helpful. yes some are good but again money!!!!. most of the time i am a happy person i think about once a month i get down (as if i have my period) last 3 days i cry for no reason and then i think thoughts and cry more. hubby goes off as i am somewhat forgetful as so much going on. He also is not well and hates his job and then talks to me about it and i can't help. getting better this time depression lifting. thanks all

[Former-Member]

@Pusskat I'm not sure if you can find someone who bulk bills privately as a specialist (in private practice) and most public hospital also have a private practice attach to it too- and sometimes the Dr there will bulk bill or alternatively go through the public system.You could ask your GP if he would ask the specialist if he/she would bulk bill you.

I think exercise as helped me with me symtoms or made me stronger. You mite find watching this video about exercise helpful.

http://www.abc.net.au/catalyst/stories/4319131.htm

[Change123]

@Pusskat

I know where youa re coming from, I currently going through peri-menopause and this year was the first time my periods stopped for 6 months.  In that time my moods and BPD were actually ok but I had the hot flushes and night sweats, when my periods came back in June the hotflushes went but my moods just went crazy.  I just had a review on my meds and the pyschiatrist said it is quite possible that this is causing my extreme episodes  as anxiety is one of the symptoms.  It will be a case of wait and see for me as my meds are being increased or changed if that doesnt work. 

Definitely get referred to a specialist whether its for your depression or peri menopause.  

[Pusskat]

Having trouble replying on iPad as in Google chrome only on computer. At the moment I am good as just worked out I get depressed only when my period would have been due and only for a few days. I am not always this way just a few days a month thank you for all the replies has helped lots 😘