188 - Depression and Menopause: How to Tell the Difference Between Hormonal Mood Swings and Clinical Depression

Do you ever wonder if your low mood, sadness, or irritability is depression — or simply part of the hormonal rollercoaster of menopause? In this powerful episode of Hot & Healthy Menopause, Menopause Coach and TEDx Speaker Nicole van Hattem explains the difference between clinical depression and menopausal mood changes, and how understanding this difference can change everything. You'll learn: 💡 The three types of reproductive depression — PMS/PMDD, postnatal depression, and climacteric (menopause) depression. 💡 Why antidepressants often don't work when hormones are the root cause. 💡 How HRT, supplements, nutrition, and therapy can restore emotional balance. 💡 The role of CBT, EFT, and NLP in rewiring your thoughts and managing stress. 💡 How to tell whether your low mood is hormonal or situational — and what to do next. Nicole also shares practical steps for talking with your doctor, tracking symptoms, and rebuilding confidence through self-compassion and lifestyle shifts. Because depression during menopause isn't weakness — it's biology. And with the right tools, you can rebalance and reclaim your energy, clarity, and joy. 💬 Mentions & Resources 🎧 Listen to the Perimenopause Starter Pack mini-series (Episodes 168–175) for your foundations. 💻 Learn more or book a free discovery call: www.nicolevanhattem.com 👭 Join the Hot & Healthy Menopause Facebook Community 🩺 Talk to your GP about Reproductive Depression and HRT