Women with Severe Mental Health Conditions Face Challenges During Menopause, New Review Highlights

A recent scoping review underscores the significant challenges faced by women with serious mental health disorders as they navigate menopause. The study emphasizes that these women are often inadequately prepared for the transition, lacking sufficient resources and support systems. Serious mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, recurrent depression, severe anxiety, eating disorders, personality disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder are characterized by chronicity and symptom severity, which can impair daily functioning.

Research has shown that women with mental health conditions frequently experience worse physical health outcomes and higher mortality rates, partly due to inadequate healthcare access. The menopause period itself can elevate the risk of depression and anxiety in all women, but those with pre-existing mental health issues may face intensified symptoms and complications.

While there is growing awareness of menopause's impact on general mental health, limited studies have explored how menopause affects women already living with chronic mental illnesses. Existing evidence suggests these women tend to report more severe menopause symptoms and exacerbation of their underlying conditions—such as worsening psychosis in women with schizophrenia or intensified body image concerns in eating disorder cases.

The review points out the urgent need for targeted psychoeducation programs tailored to women with mental health conditions, aiming to better equip them with knowledge and resources for managing menopause. Experts like Dr. Claudio Soares highlight the importance of providing comprehensive care and information to support mental health during this transitional phase.

Overall, the findings reinforce that healthcare systems must improve in delivering effective support and resources for women with serious mental illnesses during menopause, ensuring better health outcomes and quality of life.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-05-women-mental-health-conditions-ill.html