Mia's Feed
Mental Health & Mindfulness

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

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

Share this article

Research highlights significant gaps in support for women with mental health conditions during menopause, emphasizing the need for targeted psychoeducation programs to improve health outcomes.

2 min read

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

Stay Updated with Mia's Feed

Get the latest health & wellness insights delivered straight to your inbox.

How often would you like updates?

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

Related Articles

The Future of Workplace Mental Health: Self-Guided Digital Tools Leading the Change

Discover how self-guided digital interventions are transforming workplace mental health, offering scalable, private, and effective support for employees' well-being.

Brain Inflammation and Its Role in Repetitive Behaviors in Autism and OCD

New research reveals how brain inflammation may drive repetitive behaviors in autism and OCD, highlighting potential for existing anti-inflammatory drugs to serve as targeted treatments.

Expert Advice: Regaining Control and Building Resilience During Uncertain Times

Learn effective strategies to regain control and boost mental resilience during chaos through small actions, joyful activities, and habit building, as advised by mental health experts.

Role Reversal: Growing Number of Children Acting as Caregivers for Elderly Family Members

Millions of children in the U.S. are now caregivers for elderly family members, a trend that may worsen with policy changes reducing home care services, impacting their health and education. Learn more about this growing issue and efforts to support young caregivers.