MHM Magazine

28 | MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS | 2023 | Issue 4 MHM illnesses may still be managed with treatment started during menopause. While menopause can’t be treated, management is crucial. Outside of hormone replacement therapy, treatment includes antidepressants, anticonvulsants, contraceptive medications, hypnosis, and psychotherapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy to help support the person during this period. Although herbal remedies may be effective, these have not been tested in randomised control trials, which makes their reliability questionable. Helpful resources for women going through menopause include the South African Menopause Society (https://www.menopause.co.za/ ), online forums, and discussions with treating doctors. Non-medical interventions that women may find useful are changes in eating, limiting alcohol and smoking to a minimum, and exercise, which is research-backed in combating the release of stress hormones which aggravate mental illnesses and the physical symptoms of menopause. A common myth about menopause is that women should withstand whatever difficulties they go through. However, there are primary healthcare practitioners and mental health care practitioners that can assist with all the resulting symptoms to improve women’s quality of life. It’s important to emphasise to patients that there is a lot of help available in the form of health and mental health professionals, and to assist in breaking the stigma that blocks those from accessing assistance, particularly for mental health. Help is available even in the public sector, which offers health and mental health services for those in need at a low or no cost. Loved ones of those going through menopause can also help their family member or friend by allowing them the space to ask for help and support, and to break barriers to intervention inflicted by stigma by facilitating conversation with individuals as well as in communities. References available on request.