A study led by UCL researchers and published in Menopause Journal shows how physical activity during menopause can improve depression, mood and quality of life.
The paper says:
- Women in the menopause transition commonly experience mood disturbances, anxiety, cognitive complaints, and reduced quality of life.
- Twelve Random Controlled Trials, involving 1,003 women in peri and early post-menopause, were included.
- Aerobic-based interventions improved depression, mood and overall quality of life.
- Mind-body interventions improved psychological quality of life.
- Hormone therapy is the first-line treatment for vasomotor and other physiological symptoms of menopause and may offer some psychological benefits. However, it is not suitable for all, including those with certain cancers and is avoided by others due to perceived risks. Psychological interventions, such as cognitive behavioural therapy are effective for managing menopausal distress yet access may be limited by service constraints and long wait times.
- …there is a pressing need for scalable, accessible interventions to support psychological well-being during menopause [and] physical activity is a widely available, low-cost intervention with well-established benefits for mental health and quality of life.