opinion: how we can support menopausal women in the canadian workplace
workplace cultures that talk openly about menopause help overcome biases against those who experience it.
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opinion: how to navigate the maze of hormonal health and mental wellness
empowering individuals to recognize and advocate for their hormonal health is paramount to reclaiming their mental wellbeing.
jun 19 2024
4 minute read
hormonal imbalances can significantly impact mental health, yet they are often overlooked in favour of psychological explanations.
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as the founder of a telemedicine company focused on midlife hormonal health and mental wellness, i’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of understanding and addressing the intricacies of this often-overlooked aspect of wellbeing.
over the years, i’ve encountered countless individuals navigating the maze of midlife transitions, grappling with symptoms that often mimic those of depression and anxiety. it’s become increasingly clear to me that empowering individuals to recognize and advocate for their hormonal health is paramount to reclaiming their mental wellbeing.
the taboo lifts: acknowledging hormonal health in midlife
in my experience, the taboo surrounding midlife issues has begun to lift, allowing for more open conversations about the profound impact of hormonal changes on mental health. one striking example comes to mind: a client who had been struggling with chronic fatigue, brain fog, and low libido for years.
like many others, they had been misdiagnosed with depression and prescribed antidepressants, which only served to worsen their symptoms. it wasn’t until they sought out specialized care and comprehensive hormone testing that the true root cause of their struggles was uncovered.
understanding the hormonal landscape of midlife
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through my work, i’ve come to understand the complex hormonal shifts that occur during midlife, affecting both men and women in profound ways.
take, for instance, a middle-aged woman experiencing debilitating hot flashes and mood swings. these symptoms, often dismissed as typical menopausal changes, may actually signify underlying hormonal imbalances that require targeted intervention.
similarly, men grappling with declining testosterone levels may find themselves facing a host of symptoms that impact their mental wellbeing, from fatigue to diminished libido.
unveiling the impact of misdiagnosis
misdiagnosis is all too common in midlife hormonal health.
for example, consider a man in his early fifties who felt persistently “off” despite being treated for depression. closer examination revealed his symptoms were more aligned with hormonal imbalances.
once appropriate interventions were implemented, his overall wellbeing significantly improved. this case highlights the critical need for increased awareness and advocacy surrounding midlife hormonal health.
according to the anxiety & depression association of america, psychiatric disorders are closely connected to physiological health. hormonal imbalances can significantly impact mental health, yet they are often overlooked in favour of psychological explanations. this underscores the importance of thorough evaluations and comprehensive hormone testing to ensure accurate diagnoses and effective treatments.
recognizing the bidirectional relationship between physical and mental health, as emphasized by eda gorbis, phd, lmft, is crucial for preventing misdiagnosis and promoting holistic well-being. in her article “ hormones, mental health, and the mind/body connection ,” gorbis explains this relationship through the experiences of ocd patients, who often have low melatonin, high cortisol, and increased obsessive-compulsive disorder (ocd) symptoms, such as anxiety, during periods of high estrogen in the menstrual cycle.
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addressing both hormonal and mental health can improve outcomes and enhance the quality of life for individuals navigating midlife transitions.
empowering patients: advocacy in action
empowering individuals to advocate for their hormonal health has been a cornerstone of my approach to care. through education and open dialogue, i’ve seen clients become more empowered to ask the right questions and seek out specialized care when needed.
one memorable instance involved a woman who, armed with knowledge about her hormonal health, was able to engage in a meaningful discussion with her healthcare provider about the need for comprehensive hormone testing. this proactive approach ultimately led to a more accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.
collaborative healthcare: building a holistic toolkit
collaboration lies at the heart of effective midlife healthcare, as i’ve learned through years of interdisciplinary work with colleagues across various specialties. by bringing together experts in hormone health, functional medicine, and holistic wellness, we’ve been able to offer individuals a comprehensive toolkit for optimizing their hormonal health.
this collaborative model of care has enabled clients to access a range of interventions, from personalized hormone therapies to lifestyle modifications, with remarkable success.
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reflecting on my journey in midlife hormonal health and mental wellness, it’s clear that much work remains. sharing stories, educating others, and advocating for change can transform midlife into a time of empowerment and growth. together, let’s approach midlife hormonal health with resilience, compassion, and a commitment to holistic wellbeing.
my commitment is to raise awareness, foster collaboration, and empower individuals to take control of their health. by doing so, we can ensure midlife is seen as an opportunity for growth and renewal. each step forward brings us closer to a world where everyone has the knowledge and support needed to thrive.
tactical advice: taking control of your midlife health
if you suspect hormonal imbalances, ask your doctor:
- what other conditions could be causing my symptoms? rule out underlying causes beyond depression.
- can we do a blood test for hormone levels, such as fsh and estradiol? identify potential hormonal imbalances.
- are there other relevant tests? consider checking testosterone, thyroid, and adrenal hormone levels.
additionally, consider seeking specialists in hormonal health or integrative healthcare options. by taking these steps, you can actively participate in your health journey and ensure your treatment is tailored to your needs. midlife can be a time of vibrant health and renewed purpose with the right approach.
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hira siddiqui is a passionate advocate for femtech and hormone health optimization, committed to transforming women’s healthcare through innovation and digital adaptability. as co-founder of science & humans, she has developed the meno.care program to provide comprehensive solutions for menopausal women. focused on longevity and superior clinical outcomes, hira emphasizes early diagnosis and prevention of chronic diseases with a whole-body approach to care, rooted in functional medicine principles. her dedication to healthcare innovation and research aims to enhance patient outcomes and foster a culture of empathy and inclusivity.
science & humans specializes in telemedicine, offering a range of services focused on hormones, anti-aging, longevity, and sexual wellness support.
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