The Need for More Research to Support Women with Mental Illness During Menopause

Current research on how women living with mental health conditions can best prepare for menopause is limited, with few studies addressing both menopausal and psychiatric symptoms simultaneously. A recent review published in the journal Menopause highlights the significant gap in understanding this transition for women with mental illnesses. Researchers Tania Perich, Ph.D., and Kelly Kakakios from Western Sydney University conducted a comprehensive scoping review to evaluate existing psychoeducation programs aimed at supporting women with mental health challenges during menopause.

Their review identified only five studies that incorporated psychoeducation within the framework of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), targeting depression or menopause symptoms. These interventions included women experiencing depression or bipolar disorder. However, notably absent were studies focused on other mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, personality disorders, PTSD, anxiety, OCD, substance use, and eating disorders.

Experts like Claudio Soares, M.D., president of The Menopause Society, emphasize that while understanding about menopause and its impact on well-being has expanded, there remains a pressing need to improve the dissemination of information and resources to women with severe mental illnesses. Addressing this gap is crucial for enhancing their health management during midlife and beyond.

This review underscores the importance of targeted psychoeducation and tailored interventions to improve health outcomes for women navigating both menopause and mental health conditions. Continued research and development of specialized programs are essential to ensure these women receive comprehensive support during this critical life stage.

For more details, refer to the original study: Tania Perich et al, Psychoeducation in the management of menopause symptoms for women living with a serious mental illness: a scoping review, Menopause (2025), DOI: 10.1097/GME.0000000000002540.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-05-people-mental-illness-menopause.html