New research conducted by Anxiety UK and Kalms has revealed a strong association between the menopause, perimenopause, and symptoms of anxiety.
85% of the 179 women surveyed believe that their anxiety was triggered by the menopause. Results also showed that 61% of women that are taking medication, or have been recommended medication, have been recommended anti-depressants for their menopausal anxiety.
Anxiety UK CEO Nicky Lidbetter comments:
“Anxiety is a prevalent symptom of the menopause, but awareness amongst women and indeed healthcare practitioners, is low. Societally, most of us are familiar with hot flushes and weight gain as being symptoms of the menopause; this survey however shows that we need to get much better at recognising anxiety as being a key symptom. Indeed, Anxiety UK want all women experiencing perimenopausal and menopausal anxiety to have fast access to accessible support and to have access to a wide range of treatments."
Anxiety occurs when your bodies ‘fight or flight’ defence works continuously. An ‘imbalance’ in the way the body processes environmental and sensory stimuli leads to a disproportionate ‘excitatory’ response, and excessive release of neurotransmitters between nerve cells in the brain. Leading to overstimulation of the nervous system and feelings of anxiety.
During the menopause and perimenopause, changing hormone levels contribute to this imbalance in the brain and heightened levels of anxiety. Immediate Past Chair of the British Menopause Society Kathy Abernethy explains:
“When you start the menopause, oestrogen levels begin to decline and fluctuate. Your body also produces less progesterone. Both of these hormones influence the production of a neurotransmitter called serotonin, which is a mood-regulating transmitter. Alongside these emotional changes, coping with physical symptoms, such as sleeplessness and hot-flushes, can leave women feeling worn out, frustrated and of course anxious.”
According to a new Public Health England (PHE) report, women are 1.5 times more likely to be prescribed drugs, including SSRIs & Benzodiazepines, than men. However, not all women’s experiences or symptoms of anxiety warrant taking this type of medication.
Professor of Psychiatry, Professor Hans-Peter Volz comments:
“The use, and misuse, of prescription anxiety medication is rising. Doctors can be quick to medicate people who are experiencing mild anxiety, without exploring alternative options. It is important that we look at alternative treatments to prescription drugs for mild anxiety such as talking therapies, mindfulness, and traditional herbal remedies.”
Exclusively based on long standing use as a traditional herbal remedy, Kalms Lavender One-A-Day Capsules are used for the temporary relief of the symptoms of mild anxiety such as stress and nervousness. Contains Pharmaceutical Grade Lavender Oil. Always read the label.
Kalms Lavender One-A-Day Capsules are available to from supermarkets and chemists nationwide, or online at Amazon. RRP. £7.16.
Please note that Nicky Lidbetter, Kathy Abernethy & Professor Hans-Peter Volz do not endorse any brands or products.