Hormone Imbalances and Mood Disorders
Hormone imbalances involving estrogen, progesterone, cortisol, thyroid hormones, and androgens can lead to anxiety and depression. Estrogen stimulates serotonin but can cause anxiety if too high or unbalanced by progesterone, which calms anxiety by stimulating GABA after ovulation. Signs of imbalance include mood swings, headaches, and heavy periods.
Androgens (like testosterone) are often elevated in PCOS due to insulin resistance, causing symptoms like anxiety, acne, and hair loss. Cortisol dysregulation from chronic stress worsens anxiety, depression, and fatigue, while poor habits like irregular meals or lack of sleep increase stress hormone production.
Thyroid issues (hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism) mimic PCOS and can cause depression, anxiety, fatigue, and weight changes. Managing stress, balancing blood sugar, regulating sleep, and reducing endocrine disruptors are key to hormone and mood balance. Birth control can worsen hormonal imbalances, insulin resistance, and mood issues without addressing root causes.