Majority of UK adults unaware menopause can trigger mental illness

In Brief

Polls show widespread lack of awareness about menopause's impact on mental health.

Key Facts

• Nearly 75% of UK women do not know menopause can trigger a new mental illness, according to a poll reported by The Guardian
• Four in five adults are unaware of the link between menopause and mental health, according to The Independent
• Peri-menopausal women have a 40% higher risk of depression compared to those without menopausal symptoms, according to The Independent
• The Royal College of Psychiatrists has issued its first targeted position statement on menopause and mental health, as reported by The Guardian
• The position statement calls for improvements in care and greater awareness of menopause's mental health impact, according to The Guardian

What Happened

Polling reported by The Guardian and The Independent indicates that a majority of UK women and adults are unaware that menopause can trigger new mental illnesses. The Royal College of Psychiatrists released a position statement to raise awareness and advocate for improved care related to menopause and mental health.

Why It Matters

These reports highlight a gap in public knowledge and healthcare provision regarding menopause and mental health. The Royal College of Psychiatrists' statement suggests that increased awareness and better care may address the elevated risk of depression and other mental illnesses during menopause.