Depression, Anxiety, and PCOS
Women with PCOS are three times more likely to experience anxiety and are at higher risk for depression. Physiological factors related to PCOS can worsen these symptoms.
Signs of Depression include lack of motivation, sadness, hopelessness, trouble concentrating, appetite changes, and feelings of guilt or worthlessness.
Signs of Anxiety include restlessness, irritability, poor concentration, rapid breathing, sweating, trouble sleeping, and GI issues.
Conventional Treatments for anxiety and depression include antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs, tricyclics), anti-anxiety medications (benzodiazepines, beta blockers), and therapy. Birth control is sometimes prescribed to suppress hormones but may not address underlying issues.
What other options are their beyond medicine to approach our mood with PCOS? Does a root cause approach provide options? Check out that and more in the next module.