The Millstone Times August 2018

HEALTH 

 WELLNESS

&

Menopause and Depression By Lauren Kolacki

re

We provide Adult Day Services For Special Needs Adults (21 years old +)

Menopause is a natural biological process in a woman’s life when the function of the ovaries is terminated. It is defined by the absence of menstrual periods for 12 months. The average age of menopause in America is 51, but can happen anywhere from your 30’s-60’s. This is a long, sometimes demanding, process where women are likely to ex- perience a range of different symptoms such as hot flashes, irregular periods, vaginal dryness, weight gain, etc. In addition to these physical changes; mood swings, irritability and in severe cases, depression may also accompany menopause. Women with a history of mental illness are more vulnerable to re- current clinical depression during menopause. Clinical depression is a mental health disorder characterized by persistently depressed mood or loss of interest in activities, causing significant impairment in daily life. Untreated depression in older women can increase their risk of de- veloping other serious medical conditions, including heart attack and decreased bone mineral density. No matter the severity of your depression, there are steps you can take to learn how to deal with your emotions. It is important to reach out and stay connected. Talk to someone about your feelings, go for a walk with a friend, have somebody to confide in. Make sure to do things that make you feel good. This can be watching a funny movie, taking a long bath or meeting with an old friend. Get moving, exercise can release endorphins which enhance your mood. Most importantly, try to challenge your negative thoughts. Negative, unrealistic ways of thinking are what fuel depression.

Medicaid/HMO/DDD

!

Call UsToday For ATour or Info! (732) 845-3332 • Free Door-to-DoorTransportation • Health Evaluations • Bi-Lingual staff • Music & PetTherapy

SUMMER DAY PROGRAMS FOR YOUR SPECIAL NEEDS PERSONS OVER 21

use

• Educational Programs to assist & encourage independance with activities of daily living • Social Activities • Fabulous food and menu options • Recreation, Exercise,Trips to Museums, Stores, Crafts and more... Serving Monmouth, Middlesex & Ocean Residents

s, re)

ts

20 1-A Jackson Street Freehold, New Jersey

We Offer Something Special Nowhere Else Found In CNJ ForYour Loved One! Active Day Adult Services

58

The Millstone Times

August 2018