Navigating midlife hormonal changes requires personalized mental health strategies. In this episode, Dr. Polly Watson continues her discussion with Dr. Elizabeth Cox, a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in reproductive psychiatry from UNC Chapel Hill. With over a decade of experience, Dr. Cox highlights the critical impact of hormonal changes on women’s mental health during midlife.
The episode explores the use of antidepressants for perimenopausal women, focusing on the decision-making process for pharmaceutical intervention, especially when anxiety or mood disruptions affect quality of life. Dr. Cox emphasizes tailoring treatments to each patient’s values and lifestyle goals.
Addressing concerns like weight gain and sexual dysfunction, Dr. Cox suggests strategies such as adjusting medication dosages, using supplementary medications like Buspar or Wellbutrin, and exploring topical agents like CBD oil. Open communication between patients and providers is key to managing these side effects.
Dr. Cox also discusses the role of genetic testing in personalizing mental health treatments, particularly for those with multiple unsuccessful medication trials or severe side effects. Her approach in reproductive psychiatry emphasizes caution, minimalism, and collaboration, creating a supportive environment for women during hormonal transitions.
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Links
Connect with Dr. Elizabeth Cox:
Website: https://www.resetyourhealthandwellness.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reset_healthandwellness/
Facebook: Reset Health & Wellness, PLLC
Connect with Dr. Polly Watson:
Website: https://hormonewellnessmd.com/podcast
Resources: https://hormonewellnessmd.com/podcast-resources
New Patient: https://hormonewellnessmdacademy.teachable.com/p/are-we-a-good-fit-new-patient-welcome-course
Instagram: https://instagram.com/hormonewellnessmd
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hormonewellnessmd
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG4Tw8oHGR_6wBZmXrTu9xA
Disclaimer: https://hormonewellnessmd.com/podcast#Disclaimer
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