menopausal and struggling:

[twigwidge]

PPP 9 years ago. I'm now menopausal and struggling with second bout of anxiety /depression in 18months . My usual antidepressant and CBT techniques don't seem to be working.

Does anyone know if there are benefits from HRT or any other therapies . Anyone know of any Specialist doctors/research in this field?

Thanks Tracey

[Ellie_at_APP Partner]

Hi twigwidge

Welcome to the forum. I’m really sorry you’re struggling with anxiety and depression.

I’m afraid there is limited research about symptoms during menopause and it’s links with pp. However if you’re in the UK I would recommend that you ask your GP or mental health team to refer you to the second opinion service based at Cardiff university who specialise in pp and also have done some research into mental health during menopause. They are able to offer consultations over Skype. The link is here: app-network.org/what-is-pp/...

I do hope this is helpful and that you can get the support you need

Ellie

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Hello twigwidge,

I just can support Ellie's recommendation.

My partner and I received help and support from Professor Ian Jones this year, who has been of tremendous help. We have had 2 consultation via skype. He is a very kind and gentle guy, but also very thorough in trying to find out the root of the problem.

I have had PPP in 2010, but still have been struggling and after 8 years finally have been diagnosed with Bi-Polar 1. Understanding the cause of my triggers and anxiety issues helps me to extend my toolkit for coping mechanisms.

Meditation and Yoga; practising the mindfulness of breathing helps me to control panic attacks. I listen to a lot of relaxing music, but also use head phones or ear plugs a lot as my senses are extremely hyphened when poorly.

We are all different in our make up and a lot of tailor-made avenues had to be discovered, subsequently finding what is most suitable for my individual needs. My therapeutic path is quite spiritual. I like Kundalini and Reiki, too.

Obviously emotional support, somebody you can confine in and understands, is of great importance.

Wishing you well,

x

[Teresa_K_S Volunteer]

Hi Twigwidge

Im also at this stage too. The medications which for years have worked no longer seem to hold me during the time leading up to my menstrual cycle. A hormone test has shown that my hormone levels have dropped and Im entering perimenopause. The gp has said that this could last 3 years!

I tried to get a referral to Prof Ian Jones both through my gp and then through my psychiatrist but neither were at all open to the idea. It is not possible to self refer so it is something you would really have to push for with your doctor.

Upon being refused referral to Cardiff

I read as many published articles from reasearch by Prof Ian Jones and in one article it did say it seemed HRT could offer some protection.

As such I have asked my GP to prescribe HRT for me and am due to start taking them in January. Please dont take this as fact and a solution for everyone. This is just my recent experience. We are all so different and your gp will advise if HRT is suitable for you as with all medications they come with a list of side effects.

I hope you can make some headway through this unsettling stage and do try for a referal to Prof Ian Jones as your doctors may be more accomodating

Best Wishes

Teresa x

[Lilybeth Volunteer]

Hello twigwidge

Sorry to hear you are struggling. ......

Just to add to the helpful replies here, there was a broadcast on Radio 4's Woman's Hour last year entitled "Postpartum Psychosis & Menopause ......" the link being app-network.org/news/bbc-ra... relapse/ featuring Prof Jones and a lovely APP volunteer at the time (beginning at 20.29 into programme).

I had an early menopause after a hysterectomy in my mid-30's due to fibroids. I didn't have HRT but have heard that, as with all medications, there is a fine balance to find patches that suit. I hope you find some relief soon. Take care. x

[NanaJudith_APP_Vol Volunteer]

Hello Twigwidge, I am sorry that you are suffering with menopause symptoms, which can be difficult enough without the worry of PP. I did take HRT for about a year and I did find it helpful but of course everyone is different and symptoms vary, a referral to a gynaecologist might be a good idea. I also found exercise and yoga helpful. It's difficult to imagin whilst you are going through it but 'this too shall pass' a little mantra. I do hope that you feel much better soon.

Judith x

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Thinking of you twigwidge and hope you will find a path, which is helping you. Lifestyle and approaches for mums do vary a lot. I gain a lot of inspiration from all those wonderful people on this APP site...and the information, exchange of experience and journalising has been a very therapeutic way in my personal journey of recovery.

Wishing you happiness and peace

x