How HRT can treat your depression and anxiety
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has been shown to be an effective treatment for depression and anxiety in both men and women. HRT involves the use of hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone to replace hormones that are no longer being produced or are being produced at low levels in the body. In this article, we will explore how HRT works to alleviate depression and anxiety, and provide links to studies that support its use as a treatment option.
Depression and anxiety are often linked to hormonal imbalances in the body. In women, the decline in estrogen and especially progesterone levels that occurs during menopause is known to contribute to mood changes and increased risk of depression and anxiety. Similarly, men may experience a decline in testosterone levels as they age, which can also contribute to depression and anxiety.
HRT works by restoring hormonal balance in the body, which can help to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. Studies have shown that estrogen therapy can be effective in treating depression in women, particularly those who are experiencing symptoms related to menopause. In one study, researchers found that women who received estrogen therapy had a significant reduction in symptoms of depression compared to those who did not receive hormone replacement (1).
Similarly, testosterone therapy has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of depression in men. In one study, researchers found that men who received testosterone therapy had a significant improvement in their symptoms of depression compared to those who received a placebo (2).
Progesterone is another hormone that has been shown to have mood-regulating effects. In women, progesterone levels fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle and can contribute to premenstrual mood changes. Progesterone therapy has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression in women with premenstrual syndrome (PMS) (3) and in menopause.
Pregnenolone is the mother of all hormones and oftentimes ignored in many other HRT clinics. This pre hormone makes all of the above hormones mentioned but pregnenolone alone can help to decrease anxiety, insomnia and memory loss. Through the Brain Well Program, we use pregnenolone as part of your protocol. This is a safer method because it works with your own body’s chemistry and does not shut off the natural hormone production which can occur with just using synthetic testosterone and hormone creams alone. We may use those things in the beginning of your Brian Well treatment plan but the goal is to get to the most natural treatment possible and your body producing optimal hormone levels.
It is important to note that HRT may not be appropriate for everyone, and there are potential risks associated with its use. Women who have a history of breast cancer or certain other medical conditions may not be able to use estrogen therapy. Men who have a history of prostate cancer may not be able to use testosterone therapy. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of HRT with a healthcare provider before starting treatment.
In conclusion, HRT can be an effective treatment option for depression and anxiety in both men and women. By restoring hormonal balance in the body, HRT can help to alleviate mood symptoms and improve overall quality of life. However, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits of HRT with a healthcare provider before starting treatment.
References:
1. Soares CN, Almeida OP, Joffe H, et al. Efficacy of estradiol for the treatment of depressive disorders in perimenopausal women: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Arch Gen Psychiatry. 2001;58(6):529-534.
2. Zarrouf FA, Artz S, Griffith J, Sirbu C, Kommor M. Testosterone and depression: systematic review and meta-analysis. J Psychiatr Pract. 2009;15(4):289-305.
3. Wyatt KM, Dimmock PW, Ismail KM, et al. The effectiveness of progesterone in the treatment of premenstrual syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Br J Obstet Gynaecol. 2005;112(9):1175-1184.
