I am 51 years old. Since February, I have been very depressed. My last period was very light and lasted only 2 days. The one before it was very heavy, and lasted 4 days. The doctor has put me on anti-depressants, because they think that it is not the menopause as I am not getting night-sweats. I saw another doctor and they agreed, and now I am on a higher dose of anti-depressants. I feel no different though. Do you think it could be the menopause?

As you are getting a number of symptoms and you are in the average age range, 45-55, it is possible you are approaching the menopause.

According to research, about 1/3 of women going through the menopause don't get flushes or sweats so this is not a definitive marker!

Unfortunately menopausal depression is often treated with anti-depressants and they often don't help.

I would suggest trying Menopause Support as this is traditionally used to help gently raise and balance oestrogen - it's the falling oestrogen that can cause low mood etc.

I would also suggest a good female multi-vitamin with extra magnesium - magnesium is vital for mood, relaxation and sleep.

Acupuncture can be really good for this so it is worth looking into as well.

Check your diet too, and make sure that you are having a good, varied diet. Drink plenty of water as dehydration can make depression worse, and try a little exercise every day.

Gentle daily exercise produces 'happy chemicals' in the brain which can help to alleviate low mood, so it is very important!

Eileen Durward