How do Hormonal Changes affect Anxiety?
Hormonal changes can have a significant impact on anxiety disorders due to the complex interplay between hormones and the brain's neurotransmitter systems. Fluctuations in hormone levels can influence mood, emotions, and the body's stress response. Here's how hormonal changes can affect anxiety disorders:
Puberty and Adolescence: Hormonal changes during puberty can contribute to the onset or exacerbation of anxiety disorders. The surge in sex hormones, such as estrogen and testosterone, can affect neurotransmitter systems like serotonin and dopamine, which play a role in regulating mood and anxiety.
Menstrual Cycle and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD): Some individuals with anxiety disorders may experience worsened symptoms during the menstrual cycle, especially in the premenstrual phase. This can be particularly evident in PMDD, a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) characterized by severe mood disturbances, including anxiety.
Pregnancy and Postpartum Period: Hormonal changes during pregnancy and after childbirth can impact anxiety levels. The drastic shifts in hormone levels, particularly estrogen and progesterone, can contribute to mood changes, including increased anxiety. Postpartum anxiety and mood disorders are also common in the months following childbirth.
Perimenopause and Menopause: Fluctuations in hormone levels during perimenopause (the transition to menopause) and menopause can lead to mood disturbances and increased anxiety in some individuals. The decline in estrogen levels may contribute to these changes.
Thyroid Hormone Imbalance: Thyroid hormones play a crucial role in regulating metabolism and brain function. An imbalance in thyroid hormone levels, such as hypothyroidism (low thyroid hormone levels) or hyperthyroidism (excess thyroid hormone levels), can lead to symptoms of anxiety and exacerbate existing anxiety disorders.
Stress Response and Cortisol: Hormonal changes, particularly the release of cortisol during the body's stress response, can contribute to heightened anxiety. Chronic stress and elevated cortisol levels may lead to increased anxiety symptoms over time.
Hormonal Contraceptives: Some individuals may experience changes in anxiety symptoms when using hormonal contraceptives. Hormonal birth control methods can influence hormone levels and potentially impact mood and anxiety.
It's important to note that while hormonal changes can influence anxiety disorders, they are not the sole cause of these conditions. Anxiety disorders are complex and arise from a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Additionally, hormonal changes may affect individuals differently, and not everyone with hormonal fluctuations will develop or experience worsened anxiety.
If you notice significant changes in your anxiety symptoms that appear to be related to hormonal changes, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. They can help assess your situation, provide appropriate guidance, and recommend treatments or interventions to manage anxiety symptoms effectively. Anxiety symptoms caused by hormonal changes are treated similarly to non-hormonal anxiety, with CBT, psychodynamic therapy, and exposure therapy.
Please contact Kairos Wellness Collective today to meet with a therapist and begin your journey to mental wellbeing.
