When addressing mental health challenges like anxiety and depression, it’s easy to neglect the role of hormone imbalances. However, having balanced hormones is essential not just for physical well-being but also for mental health. Hormones, which are produced by glands in the endocrine system, play a key role in regulating numerous bodily functions. They influence metabolism, mood, reproductive health, and sexual well-being.
Hormone imbalances occur when the endocrine system produces too much or too little of a hormone. Hormonal imbalances in women can lead to or intensify issues such as trouble sleeping, sudden hot flashes, mood swings, anxiety, or depression. Since hormone levels and their changes can be quite complex in women, it is crucial to recognize the link between hormones and mental health.
Women have important hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone that influence their brain chemistry. When these hormones are out of balance, it can lead to problems with mental health, making issues like anxiety or depression worse.
Stress hormones, particularly cortisol, can also play a role in mental health. If estrogen and progesterone drop (which can happen for various reasons), it may make women feel more angry or anxious. High stress levels can keep cortisol high, which might then lead to feelings of anxiety or depression.
When a person is stressed, their body releases certain hormones that can affect blood sugar and insulin levels. This can lower serotonin, which is a chemical in the brain that makes you feel calm and happy. When serotonin goes down, it can lead to more mental health issues.
The thyroid gland produces hormones that help regulate energy in the body. If the thyroid is not working properly—either too slow (underactive) or too fast (overactive)—it can also cause anxiety. An underactive thyroid may make someone feel sad or depressed, while an overactive thyroid might make someone feel nervous or jittery, like having too much caffeine.
There is a deep relation between female hormones and mental health and physical health. Hormones are important chemicals in our bodies that help regulate many functions. When they are not balanced, it can lead to several symptoms. Hormonal imbalances in females can cause feelings of sadness (depressed mood), changes in mood (mood swings), and increased worry (anxiety). If someone already feels depressed or anxious, these feelings can get worse due to hormonal changes.
A person with hormonal issues might experience:
While both thyroid hormones and cortisol imbalances impact both genders in similar ways, the female hormones estrogen and progesterone can lead to mental health changes that are distinctive to women. These hormones change in levels during the month, and for some women, these changes can lead to serious mood swings. This condition is known as Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), which can make women feel very emotional or even very depressed before their periods.
Moreover, after women give birth or during menopause (when they stop having periods), their hormone levels can change a lot. This can cause sudden shifts in their mood, and some women might experience feelings of depression or anxiety during these times.
Several health issues related to hormones, including:
Different lifestyle factors and life stages can affect hormone levels in the body, leading to imbalances that might impact mental and physical health:
Poor sleep, unhealthy eating, lack of exercise, and ongoing stress can disrupt hormone levels. These disruptions can also lead to mental health issues like anxiety and depression.
Certain foods can cause hormonal imbalances in women. Examples given are red meat, processed foods, caffeine, soy, and dairy products.
Hormonal problems related to the thyroid can happen at any age but are more frequent in women over 40. A doctor can easily check thyroid health through a blood test.
Women's hormone levels change during their monthly period. These changes can lead to mood swings, changes in appetite, trouble sleeping, anxiety, and depression. Ongoing stress can also affect thyroid function.
During pregnancy, hormone levels (like estrogen and progesterone) increase, which can lead to imbalances and thyroid issues. It's noted that about 5% of pregnant individuals experience thyroid problems, and it can take several months for hormone levels to normalize after giving birth.
This is another time of significant hormonal changes. Although the ovaries keep producing hormones, the levels drop, causing symptoms that can affect mental health and may also influence thyroid function.
Hormonal imbalances in women or in men can cause various issues, and the following lifestyle changes might help improve hormone levels:
Eating a balanced diet is important. This means eating less sugar and fewer refined carbs (like white bread and sugary snacks) and including enough protein (like meat, beans, and nuts). Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, can also be beneficial. Drinking decaffeinated green tea and staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water is the top recommended from our top gynecologists in Mumbai.
Getting enough physical activity is crucial. Exercise can help improve overall health and may also help with hormone regulation.
Learning ways to reduce stress can make a difference. Practices like meditation can help calm the mind and body, making it easier to manage hormone levels.
A vitamin called inositol might help with hormonal symptoms. Inositol is found naturally in fruits like cantaloupes and oranges, as well as in beans.
If these natural methods do not help manage hormone-related symptoms, it is important to visit a doctor for further assistance.
Related: The Ultimate Pregnancy Guide: Expert Tips from Top Gynecologists
The link between hormones and mental health in women is complex and multifaceted. Hormonal fluctuations can significantly influence mood and emotional well-being throughout a woman's life. By understanding this connection and implementing proactive strategies for balance and well-being, women can better manage their mental health and improve their overall quality of life. If you experience persistent mood changes, consulting with our top gynecologists in Mumbai at Dr Hiranandani Hospital who have special knowledge, skills and professional capability in the medical, can provide valuable insights and support tailored to your needs.
