Are My Anger and Irritability Hormone Related?

Q.

Please can you help me. I have recently seen my GP and explained about my and moods and irritability and anger feelings. I did say it was slightly similar to the post-natal depression I had years ago but not nearly as bad - just more bad moods.

He has prescribed anti-depressants and I am really not comfortable taking them. I am nearly 43 and feel he has ignored my question about these moods being hormone/menopausal related. My husband has likened my moods to those when I was pregnant and so I feel sure they are hormone related. Can you give me any advice please?

A.

Importance of Seeing a GP

First, it's great that you went to see your GP. Many people put off seeing their doctor and it's important to see your GP when you're experiencing worrisome health symptoms. It sounds as though your GP diagnosed you with depression, which then led to the prescription for antidepressants.

Taking Antidepressants

I can appreciate that you are questioning whether antidepressants are the right choice for you. It's difficult to say if you should continue; I would strongly recommend you discuss this discomfort with your GP and I should also stress that you shouldn't simply stop taking them, as you could suffer from withdrawal symptoms.

Menopause Symptoms

While you are young on average at age 43 to be experiencing symptoms of menopause, it is still entirely possible that your moods are related to the decline in hormones that is associated with menopause. Your GP can have blood tests conducted for you and a thorough examination to provide an opinion on whether this is the case.

It would also be important to consider if you are experiencing any other signs and symptoms, such as irregular periods and vaginal dryness.

Other Hormonal Problems

However, in terms of hormonal moods, a more likely scenario might be Pre-Menstrual Syndrome (PMS). Do you find that these moods are constant or do they tend to occur around the same time each month? This might help in determining if you suffer from PMS.

Women and Emotions

Finally, it's important to really look at how things are going in your life in terms of stress and your emotions. The diagnosis you initially received may be accurate or you may be suffering from temporary stress. Has anything occurred recently in your life that might be triggering your moods? You didn't mention how long you have been feeling this way, so it's difficult to provide feedback.

To conclude, there are a number of causes of your moods, ranging from psychological and mental to physical. However, you should approach your health as you first did – by seeing your GP.

Feeling Positive

If you feel your current GP is not actively listening to your concerns and you don't feel your care has been adequate, then I would recommend finding another GP who meets your needs. Hopefully, you will find the cause of your moods and can get back to feeling like yourself again.