What's really happening
Hormonal shifts during perimenopause and menopause can destabilize the brain chemicals that regulate mood. Even if you’ve never struggled with depression before, it can show up now—and it’s real.
But why?
Estrogen helps regulate serotonin, dopamine, and mood-related brain pathways. When it fluctuates, mood stability takes a hit.
Scientific Breakdown
Estrogen supports neurotransmitter balance and keeps stress hormones in check. During perimenopause, erratic hormone levels can destabilize mood-regulating systems—especially serotonin. Lower serotonin has been linked to depression, irritability, and emotional sensitivity. Add in poor sleep, life stress, and aging stigma, and it’s a perfect storm.
• ↓ Estrogen → ↓ serotonin = low mood
• Estrogen also affects GABA (calming) and dopamine (pleasure/motivation)
• Sleep loss + hot flashes can make mood worse
Essentially…
This is a physiological reaction—not a weakness or flaw in who you are.
🔗 [Deep Dive: Estrogen + Depression in Midlife → coming soon]
See a doctor if …
• Feeling sad most days for more than two weeks
• Losing interest in things that once mattered to you
• Thoughts of hopelessness, self-harm, or suicide (please seek immediate support)
• Major depressive disorder
• Thyroid dysfunction
• B vitamin or iron deficiency
• ADHD, especially inattentive type
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about
Depression
Q: Will depression ever go away?
It might. But don’t wait—treatment can help right now.
Q: Is this different from clinical depression?
Yes and no. The cause may be hormonal, but the experience is just as real.
Q: Can I try HT and therapy together?
Absolutely. Many women use a combo of HT, talk therapy, and lifestyle changes.
“I cried every day for a month. I thought I was losing my mind. But it was my hormones. I started HT and slowly, my mood lifted. I laugh again. I want to be around people again. I feel like me.”
— FLUXX community member, age 49
FLUXX Recommendations
1. Talk to your provider about HT or antidepressants
2. Incorporate daily mood-friendly movement
3. Prioritize connection, creativity, and sunlight
Non-Hormonal Medications
• SSRIs (like sertraline) or SNRIs (like venlafaxine)
• Bupropion (if fatigue is dominant)
• Anti-anxiety meds in short-term if appropriate
• Omega-3 fatty acids
• Adaptogens like ashwagandha or rhodiola
• Herbal teas (lemon balm, chamomile)
• Magnesium + B vitamins (especially B6, B12)
Lifestyle Suggestions
• Routine: Sleep/wake consistency, small daily rituals
• Creative outlets: Journaling, crafting, music
• Connection: support groups, therapy, time with trusted people
• Limit alcohol, increase outdoor time
Myth-Busting
This isn’t “just aging” or something you have to power through alone.
Modern Guidance
HT, SSRIs, and therapy are all valid tools. Some women benefit from a combined approach. Therapy and lifestyle shifts (like movement and sunlight) also support mood. Lifestyle changes like consistent movement, social support, and sun exposure also support emotional health. This isn’t “just aging”—you deserve to feel like yourself.
Ask yourself
• “Do I feel this way all month, or only sometimes?”
• “Have I tried other mood treatments in the past?”
• “Would I feel better with hormonal, natural, or hybrid support?”
Ask your doctor
• “Could this depression be hormone-related?”
• “Would HT help? What are my other options?”
• “Should I try therapy, medication, or both?”
Untreated depression can affect relationships, work, and quality of life—but there are safe, effective treatments.
