The Prevalence of Depression, Anxiety, and Stress and Their Association with Vitamin D and Estrogen Levels in Postmenopausal Women in Semnan

Abstract

Background: Depression, stress, and anxiety are of the most prevalent psychological disorders among postmenopausal women. Inadequate evidence is available on the association between vitamin D and estrogen with depression, anxiety, and stress in this group. Objectives:The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress and their association with vitamin D and estrogen levels in postmenopausal women in Semnan. Methods: The present analytical cross-sectional study was carried out using multistage sampling among women aged 45 to 70 years in Semnan (Iran) in summer 2016. Data collection tools were the demographic questionnaire, Spielberger State-Trait anxiety inventory, the Beck depression inventory, and the perceived stress scale. In addition, the levels of blood vitamin D and estrogen were measured. Results: In 120 postmenopausal women, depression levels were mild (22.5%), moderate (13.3%), and severe (1.7%); anxiety levels were mild (46.7%), moderate (50.8%), and severe (2.5%); additionally, 79.2% had lower stress and 20.8% had greater stress. Negative and significant correlations were found between vitamin D and depression (r = -0.1982, P = 0.031), anxiety (r = -0.3636, P < 0.001) and stress (r = -0.2884, P = 0.001). However, there was no correlation between estrogen and depression (r = -0.130, P = 0.159), anxiety (r = -0.105, P = 0.254), and stress (r = -0.104, P = 0.262). No significant correlation was seen between estrogen and vitamin D (r = -0.070, P = 0.450). Conclusions: In postmenopausal women, no significant relationship was observed between estrogen and depression, anxiety, and perceived stress; however, there was a significant relationship between vitamin D and depression, anxiety, and stress.

Menopausal Syndrome - an Overview

“…Poomalar and Arounassalame 23 found the prevalence of anxious mood as 67.2% and 78.8%, respectively. Study by Nobahar et al 24 reported that among 120 postmenopausal women, anxiety levels were mild (46.7%), moderate (50.8%), and severe (2.5%); additionally, 79.2% had lower stress and 20.8% had greater stress.…”

The Relationship between Menopause and Depression in Padang

“…Several observational studies have found that the transition to menopause is a period of increased risk of depression in women. 10,11,12 The results of research conducted by Zang et al (2016) note that there is a difference in age ranges between menopausal women who are depressed and who are not depressed. Length of education, chronic illness, and marital status are not associated with the incidence of depression in menopausal women.…”

Assessment of Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety among Menopause Women in Sulaimani City, Kurdistan: Cross-sectional Study

“…Menopause represents a significant transitional phase in a woman's life, marked by both physical and emotional changes that can profoundly impact well-being. Among the various challenges faced during this period, depression and anxiety emerge as prevalent psychological concerns affecting menopausal women [1], [2]. The ramifications of these mental health issues extend beyond the individual, influencing overall quality of life, social interactions, productivity, and self-esteem.…”

“…Recognizing the prevalence and identifying risk factors associated with depression and anxiety in menopausal women in Iraq is crucial [1], [3]. Depression and anxiety, as highlighted in previous research [2], emerge as prevalent challenges during menopause, impacting various facets of women's lives. The ramifications of these mental health issues extend beyond the individual, influencing overall quality of life, social interactions, productivity, and self-esteem.…”