Emotional Toll Of Menopause: 76% Women Face Mood Swings, Shows Gytree Survey

We see them having hot flashes, we notice the sudden changes in weight, and we judge them when they get irritable. Yet, we fail to acknowledge the internal struggles that women go through during perimenopause and menopause. Of course, menopause is a biological transition, but it also has effects on mental health. From fatigue to mood swings and brain fog to memory lapses, women in midlife face a spectrum of hidden challenges.

According to a recent survey by Gytree, a digital health platform and wellness brand for women, 76% of Indian women experience mood fluctuations, and nearly 50% said they experience brain fog and forgetfulness.

These numbers highlight what many women silently endure. Menopause significantly affects emotional well-being and cognitive functioning, yet these symptoms often remain invisible to those around them.

A conversation society is not ready to have 

Fatigue, anxiety, irritability, and sleep disturbances are among the most commonly reported symptoms of menopause among Indian women, the Gytree survey found.

When women enter their 40s, the fluctuating levels of estrogen and progesterone disrupt the brain’s mood-regulating chemicals, leading many women to experience mood swings and increased stress sensitivity.

What's more concerning is that 71% of women do not feel fully supported in their menopause journey, exacerbating these challenges.

Harleen Pannu, a banker from Gurugram, expresses, "My family does not understand why I am so moody. Sometimes I feel lonely, like no one understands what I am going through."

This is the story of countless women in India, as a lack of empathy and limited awareness surrounding their health forces them to navigate the psychological toll of menopause on their own.

A striking 52% of women said they need help for menopause, but the majority do not know how to go about it.

Many women even shy away from discussing these symptoms with healthcare professionals, assuming their symptoms are "not serious enough" to constitute a medical concern.

Fatigue: Not just physical

Indian women report persistent exhaustion during perimenopause and menopause. Unlike ordinary tiredness, this fatigue affects both the body and mind.

Hormonal fluctuations, metabolic changes, and nutritional deficiencies contribute to this deep-seated exhaustion, making everyday responsibilities feel overwhelming.

Sleep disturbances, reported by nearly 60% of women in the Gytree survey, further compound this fatigue, creating a cycle of low energy and decreased productivity.

The ripple effects of menopause-related fatigue extend to professional and personal life. More than 85% of women feel that conversations about menopause in workplaces are insufficient.

"I struggled to concentrate and felt exhausted by midday," shared Kaveri N, a corporate employee from Mysuru. "No one said anything to my face, but I felt judged and misunderstood by my colleagues."

While women over 40 should be an asset to workplaces, given their experience and expertise, they still face bias and a lack of understanding from colleagues and management.

What can we do about this?

Addressing menopause in India requires both awareness and action. The first step is normalising conversations around menopause at home, in health institutions, and in workplaces.

Improved sleep is a crucial step in managing the physical and emotional toll of menopause. Prioritising melatonin-rich foods, limiting caffeine, and practising relaxation techniques can boost sleep quality.

Nutrition is just as important for the mind as it is for the body. Adequate protein with adaptogens like Ashwagandha and Shatavari helps support muscle mass and balances stress hormones.

Whole foods rich in B vitamins, magnesium, and omega-3s can help support hormonal shifts and improve energy levels.

What Gytree's survey tells us

Menopause is not something to hide; it is a natural life stage. Open dialogue and access to resources can help reduce stigma, encourage empathy, and empower women to seek help without fear of judgment.

The Gytree survey underscores the urgent need for better awareness, accessible medical guidance, and structured solutions to help women navigate this stage with strength and resilience. 

It is time to listen, understand, and support women through menopause. Because their health, well-being, and dignity deserve nothing less. Read the full survey report here.