Vulnerability to depression and cardiometabolic risk associated with early ovarian disruption

The Midlife Transition, Depression, and Its Clinical Management

The World Health Organization estimates that more than 260 million people are affected by depression worldwide, a condition that imposes a significant burden to individuals, their families, and society. Women seem to be disproportionately more affected by depression than men, and it is now clear that some women may experience windows of vulnerability for depression at certain reproductive stages across their life span, including the midlife transition. For some, age, the presence of cardiovascular or metabolic problems, and the emergence of significant, bothersome vasomotor symptoms and sleep problems may result in a compounded, deleterious impact on well-being and overall functioning.

Depression and Menopause: An Update on Current Knowledge and Clinical Management for this Critical Window

Windows of vulnerability for depression have been associated with increased sensitivity to hormonal changes experienced by some women during the luteal phase, postpartum, and/or menopause. Increased awareness has resulted in greater adoption of screening tools for mood and behavioral changes and tailored therapies. This article discusses study results and controversies surrounding therapies uniquely designed for menopause-related depression.

Depression and Menopause: Current Knowledge and Clinical Recommendations for a Critical Window

Depression is a disabling condition, which often leads to significant personal, societal, and economic costs. Windows of vulnerability for depression in women likely are associated with an increased sensitivity experienced by some women to changes in the hormonal milieu that occur during the luteal phase of their cycles, during the postpartum period, and/or during the menopause transition. The controversy surrounding a menopause-related depression has been fueled by conflicting methodologies used to characterize reproductive staging or assess psychiatric conditions during midlife years.