Presentation Information
[P-10-05]Psychological Symptoms and Treatment Approaches in Perimenopausal Women: A Global Cultural Perspective
*Mrinalinee Rana
Keywords:
Perimenopause,Psychological disturbances,Cultural differences,Treatment approaches,Global mental health
Background: Perimenopause, the transitional period to menopause, is associated with significant hormonal, physical and psychological changes. Depression, anxiety, mood swings, irritability, and cognitive disturbances are experienced universally.
Objective:To explore the cross-cultural presentation of psychological symptoms in perimenopausal women and analyze globally implemented treatment approaches. It also identifies culturally informed factors and influences of cultural beliefs, gender norms that impact diagnosis, treatment, and help-seeking behaviors.
Methods:This paper synthesizes data from cross-cultural epidemiological studies, reviews and meta analysis, qualitative interviews and clinical trials. Studies with validated methods to assess psychological symptoms in perimenopausal women have been included.
Results: Data from Global Burden of Disease from the year 1991 to 2021 on the burden and disability associated with anxiety disorders shows its presence across regions. A pooled prevalence of depression (peri and postmenopause was more than 30pc. Research on cognitive changes suggests that verbal learning and memory are most affected along with deficits in attention, processing speed and working memory. Western biomedical approaches emphasize more on hormonal replacement therapy (HRT), antidepressants and psychotherapy. Many non-western countries including India incorporate natural practices such as Ayurveda, herbs, and spiritual healing and dietary changes.
Conclusion: Psychological disorders such as depression, anxiety and cognitive dysfunction are common in this demographic. However, factors ranging from cultural expectations, gender roles and stigma, to lack of access to mental health care and finances influence women’s beliefs and perceptions. These pose as a major challenge in dealing with this stage of life smoothly.Thus, an effective mental health care approach that integrates biomedical and culturally ground approaches is required to reduce the negative impact of these debilitating symptoms on overall health in perimenopausal women. Addressing individual needs in this regard is vital in improving the overall well-being and quality of life for women navigating this important life stage.
Objective:To explore the cross-cultural presentation of psychological symptoms in perimenopausal women and analyze globally implemented treatment approaches. It also identifies culturally informed factors and influences of cultural beliefs, gender norms that impact diagnosis, treatment, and help-seeking behaviors.
Methods:This paper synthesizes data from cross-cultural epidemiological studies, reviews and meta analysis, qualitative interviews and clinical trials. Studies with validated methods to assess psychological symptoms in perimenopausal women have been included.
Results: Data from Global Burden of Disease from the year 1991 to 2021 on the burden and disability associated with anxiety disorders shows its presence across regions. A pooled prevalence of depression (peri and postmenopause was more than 30pc. Research on cognitive changes suggests that verbal learning and memory are most affected along with deficits in attention, processing speed and working memory. Western biomedical approaches emphasize more on hormonal replacement therapy (HRT), antidepressants and psychotherapy. Many non-western countries including India incorporate natural practices such as Ayurveda, herbs, and spiritual healing and dietary changes.
Conclusion: Psychological disorders such as depression, anxiety and cognitive dysfunction are common in this demographic. However, factors ranging from cultural expectations, gender roles and stigma, to lack of access to mental health care and finances influence women’s beliefs and perceptions. These pose as a major challenge in dealing with this stage of life smoothly.Thus, an effective mental health care approach that integrates biomedical and culturally ground approaches is required to reduce the negative impact of these debilitating symptoms on overall health in perimenopausal women. Addressing individual needs in this regard is vital in improving the overall well-being and quality of life for women navigating this important life stage.