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Women’s Mental Health & Hormonal Wellbeing

Hormones change how we feel. PMS, childbirth, and menopause can hit mood hard. These struggles are real. They matter. They are treatable.

Why it matters

Many women expect mood swings and stay quiet. That delays help. Small problems can become big ones. Early support makes a real difference.

Common hormonal-related challenges

• PMS and PMDD. PMS is common. PMDD is severe and can disrupt work and relationships.

• Postpartum depression. Not the “baby blues.” It can start during pregnancy or after birth. It affects bonding, sleep, and daily life.

• Perimenopause and menopause. Hormone shifts can cause mood swings, anxiety, and low energy. They often overlap with sleep and hot flashes.

Signs to watch for

• Persistent sadness or tearfulness.

• Big mood swings or anger.

• Anxiety or panic attacks.

• Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much.

• Loss of interest in things you used to enjoy.

• Trouble thinking or focusing.

• Intrusive, harmful thoughts (especially after birth).

• Feeling detached from your baby or guilty about not enjoying motherhood.

How to support someone (short, real steps)

1. Ask a simple question: “How are you really doing?”

2. Listen. Let them talk without fixing everything.

3. Offer one concrete thing: cook a meal, watch the baby, or book a GP visit together.

4. Say the name: “I’m worried about you.” That helps.

5. Avoid minimising: don’t say “it’s just hormones” or “you’ll get over it.”

6. Follow up. Send a message next week.

What women can do (small, practical steps)

• Track your symptoms. Write down mood, sleep, and cycle.

• Tell one trusted person what you’re feeling.

• Keep routine: sleep, meals, gentle movement.

• Ask for help with childcare or house tasks.

• Try small stress tools: short walks, breathing, naps when you can.

• See a GP, midwife, or counselor if things don’t ease.

• Join a local support group or online peer group.

When to seek professional help

If low mood lasts more than a couple of weeks or daily life gets harder, see a GP or mental health professional. If you struggle to care for yourself or your baby, get help now.

If it’s a crisis

If someone talks about harming themselves or the baby, act immediately. Stay with them. Call emergency services or a crisis line in your country. Tell a health worker what’s happening.

Simple messages for a campaign

• Hormones affect mood. That’s okay.

• Feeling off? Talk to someone.

• You are not broken. You may need help.

• Help with baby care is help for mental health.

• Small honesty helps big.