Mental Health & Hormones

Hormonal changes throughout a woman’s life can affect mood, wellbeing, and mental health. Our practice provides assessment, advice, and support for those experiencing symptoms linked to hormonal fluctuations, including PMS, PMDD, perimenopause, and other hormone-related changes.

We follow national guidance from the NHS and work closely with mental health services to ensure safe, effective, and patient-centred care.

PMS / PMDD

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) affects up to 8 in 10 women in the days before their period. Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a more severe form, affecting 2–5% of menstruating women.

Symptoms may include:

• Irritability, mood swings, or anxiety

• Low mood or tearfulness

• Fatigue and difficulty sleeping

• Physical symptoms such as bloating, headaches, or breast tenderness

How we can help:

• Symptom tracking and assessment

• Lifestyle advice (exercise, diet, sleep)

• Pain relief and medications such as hormonal contraception or SSRIs for PMDD

• Referral to specialist services if needed

Further information:

• NHS – PMS and PMDD:
  https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/premenstrual-syndrome-pms/

Mood Changes in Perimenopause

Perimenopause—the transitional period before menopause—can cause fluctuating hormone levels that affect mood and mental wellbeing.

Symptoms may include:

• Anxiety or irritability

• Low mood or depressive episodes

• Poor sleep

• Fatigue or difficulty concentrating

How we can help:

• Assessment and monitoring of symptoms

• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) where appropriate

• Non-hormonal interventions including CBT and lifestyle support

• Referral to specialist menopause or mental health services

Further information:

• NHS – Perimenopause and menopause:
  https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/menopause/

Anxiety and Depression Linked to Hormonal Shifts

Hormonal changes can trigger or exacerbate mood disorders at various life stages, including:

• Puberty

• Pregnancy and postnatal period

• Perimenopause and menopause

How we can help:

• Screening and assessment for anxiety or depression

• Evidence-based treatments including talking therapies and medications

• Support for sleep, lifestyle, and stress management

• Referral to specialist mental health services if required

Further information:

• NHS – Mental health in women:
  https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/

When to Seek Help

Contact your GP Practice promptly if you experience:

• Persistent low mood or anxiety affecting daily life

• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

• Sudden changes in mood that concern you

• Severe symptoms during PMS/PMDD or perimenopause

We provide confidential, compassionate care and work collaboratively with mental health services to ensure safe and effective support.