Menopause and Suicidality: A Critical Relationship Uncovered

Strategic Insights -

Research conducted at Liverpool John Moores University reveals a significant association between the menopausal transition and suicidality, particularly during the perimenopausal stage. The study, published in Women's Health, found that 84% of the included studies reported an association between menopause and increased suicidality. Hormonal changes, pre-existing mental health conditions, physical symptoms, and limited social support emerged as key factors associated with increased suicide risk.

Key Takeaways:

  • The menopausal transition is a critical phase in a woman's life marked by hormonal fluctuations, which can result in a wide variety of physical and psychological symptoms.
  • 19 studies published between 1987 and 2025 met the inclusion criteria for the systematic review, with 16 (84%) reporting an association between the menopausal transition and increased suicidality.
  • Hormonal changes, pre-existing mental health conditions, physical symptoms, and limited social support were identified as key factors associated with increased suicide risk.
  • The review highlights the importance of integrating mental health support within menopause care and suggests further research to clarify the mechanisms underpinning suicide risk during the menopausal transition.
  • Enhanced screening and supportive interventions may benefit menopausal women experiencing suicidality.

Statistics:

  • 19 studies were included in the systematic review, published between 1987 and 2025.
  • 16 (84%) of the 19 studies reported an association between the menopausal transition and increased suicidality.
  • 7 studies specifically noted this association in perimenopausal women.
  • 3 studies did not find a significant link between menopause and suicidality.

Sources:

  • Menopause and suicide: A systematic review. Women's Health, 2025, 21. (DOI: 10.1177/17455057251360517)
  • Liverpool John Moores University Researchers Report on Findings in Menopause (Menopause and suicide: A systematic review). Mental Health Weekly Digest. October 27, 2025; p 407.
  • Women's Health - http://journals.sagepub.com/home/whe