The Mood of Menopausal Women is Affected by Stress Levels and Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression

Abstract

Introduction: Menopause is a period of vulnerability to psychological manifestations and can increase the sensitivity of emotions to stress and mood. Studies have analyzed factors associated with stress and symptoms of anxiety and depression, however, it is still scarce in the literature whether the mood changes these symptoms in menopausal women. Objective: To analyze the relationship between mood and stress and depressive symptoms and anxiety in menopausal women. Methods: Cross-sectional study composed of 90 menopausal women aged 40 to 59 years (52.6±4.1), one year without menstruation, with serum FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) levels ≥25IU/ml, and with a positive score to the Menopause Rating Scale (MRS) questionnaire. The questionnaires were composed of sociodemographic and clinical aspects, Brunel’s Mood Scale (BRUMS), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Results: Women who showed symptoms of anxiety and depression scored more on the subscales of negative mood (p<0,001), and less on the subscale of positive mood (p<0,001) for depression and anxiety (p=0,005); besides that they were more stressed than those without symptoms of anxiety and depression. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that mental confusion, fatigue and vigor have a predictive power of 33% in the stress of menopausal women. Conclusions: The mood of women in menopause seems to be affected by those with high levels of stress and symptoms of anxiety and depression.