Stages of Menopause

“Corby” asked a question related to my post about the use of melatonin for insomnia. The questions was does melatonin increase or cause depression. The short answer is…maybe, but not likely.

Several studies have confirmed that people who suffer from depression have low levels of melatonin (Lancet, 1979) (Biol Psychiatry, 1984). Other studies have linked depression to a delayed melatonin cycle (Psychoneuroendocrinology, 2004).

Melatonin is produced from serotonin and secreted by the pineal gland. Its secretion takes place at night and is inhibited by light. As such, it sets and regulates the timing of your body’s natural circadian rhythms, such as waking and sleeping. When this cycle is delayed, depression and depressive symptoms can occur.

This cycle is particularly affected during early menopause and, in fact, during all stages of menopause. As you get older, you produce less and less melatonin. Melatonin is produced from serotonin, and serotonin production is stimulated by estrogen. Low estrogen levels equates to low serotonin, which results in low melatonin.

As you can imagine, there is research to suggest that taking supplemental melatonin can help treat mild depression (Psychiatry Research, January 1998), including depression related to menopause and even premenopause. However, there are a few studies that have shown that melatonin can have a negative effect on depression (J Psychiatry, 1976).

Though the studies are small in scope and often include a small number of trial participants, it is always best to err on the side of caution. As the University of Maryland Medical Center advises, “Melatonin should be used with caution in people with depression and should be appropriately timed with…sleep-phase changes. Disruption of normal circadian rhythm by poorly timed melatonin administration may worsen depression."