Empowering women through research: redefining menopause and mental health

Dr Lydia Brown, a Senior Lecturer at the Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, is passionate about advancing women’s mental health – particularly in the context of ageing. In a society that glorifies youth, Dr Brown is acutely aware of the stigma and outdated stereotypes women face as they age, such as the pervasive notion of the 'moody menopausal woman' or the more recent 'middle-aged Karen'.

“I believe that both medicine and wider culture have been influenced by this stigma, shaping commonly held views about menopause," Dr Brown explains.

With a keen focus on the interplay of biological, psychological and social factors, her research aims to modernise our understanding of mental health and menopause, ultimately improving women’s experiences of ageing.

Her latest paper, ‘Promoting Good Mental Health over the Menopause Transition’, part of the Lancet Series on Menopause set for release in March 2024, challenges common assumptions about menopause and depression.

"When I began this project in 2021, I anticipated finding a strong correlation between menopause and depressive symptoms," she notes.

However, her paper – which reviewed data from prospective studies – offers a more nuanced perspective, and suggests that the link between menopause and depression isn't as straightforward as once thought. Contrary to widely held beliefs, most of the prospective studies did not find a universal increased risk of depression during the menopause transition. Instead, they suggest subgroups of women – with specific risk factors – may be more vulnerable to depression during this phase.

"This is a hopeful message for women preparing for and going through menopause”, says Dr Brown. "Most women remain mentally well during this time, debunking the notion that depression is widespread or inevitable."

Collaborating with international colleagues across various disciplines, including gynaecology, psychiatry and epidemiology, Dr Brown is spearheading efforts to redefine menopause as a natural phase of life – a process deserving of accurate understanding and support.

"The menopause transition is an inevitable part of ageing, and it's a privilege to understand its effect on mental health and well-being," she enthuses.

As International Women’s Day approaches with this year's theme, Count Her In: Invest in Women. Accelerate Progress, Dr Brown underscores the importance of addressing unmet needs in women's health, particularly in reproductive healthcare.

"International Women’s Day marks a valuable opportunity to shine a spotlight on women’s reproductive healthcare," she emphasises. "Investing in women's health and mental well-being is crucial to accelerating progress and achieving gender equality."

With the birth of her child due just days before the paper's release, research into women’s reproductive healthcare and the ongoing need for improvement beyond the menopausal transition is particularly poignant for Dr Brown. Through her research and dedication, she continues to empower women, challenge stereotypes and advocate for better healthcare outcomes on a global scale.