The Starting Gate
Ready to take control of your health without feeling overwhelmed? Join Dr. Kitty Dotson and Dr. Sarah Schuetz, two internal medicine physicians, as they break down easy, science based lifestyle changes that really work. Whether it’s tweaking your nutrition, getting more active, sleeping better, or reducing stress, this podcast makes it simple. With bite-sized, practical tips and relatable advice, you'll learn how small, everyday habits can lead to big results. Tune in each week for a healthier, happier you!
The Starting Gate
Episode 50: Mood, Hormones, and Midlife: Navigating Emotional Health in Menopause with Dr. Jennifer Degler
In this episode, psychologist Dr. Jennifer Degler helps us unravel the complicated relationship between hormones, mood, and life stress during perimenopause and menopause. Many women wonder: is my anxiety or irritability a result of overscheduling and constant demands, or is it a hormonal shift? Dr. Degler explains how to recognize the difference, and we discuss the role of hormone therapy and antidepressants in managing these symptoms. Together, we explore how to build strong support systems, lean on humor, and shift your mindset to see menopause not as an ending, but as a new chapter full of possibilities.
Find Dr. Degler:
Resources from Dr. Degler:
Take the MENO-D questionnaire to screen for perimenopausal depression.
Link to the FEMM app for tracking symptoms.
CBT and Mindfulness-Based Interventions for the Treatment of Anxiety and Depression in Perimenopausal Women
Articles:
Perimenopausal depression – an under-recognised entity - PMC
Development and validation of a new rating scale for perimenopausal depression—the Meno-D
SSRIs vs HT in treating perimenopausal depression
JOIN Dr. Degler at Empower Your 'Pause:
-Live in-person event at Tates Creek Presbyterian Church on Saturday, Nov 1, 2025
-Also available as live webinar on Nov 1, 2025 with option to watch replay video at your convenience.
-Also available as online video course on Thinkific.com
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The content in this podcast is for general reference and educational purposes only. It is not meant to be complete or exhaustive, or to be applicable to any
specific individual’s medical condition. No information provided in this podcast constitutes medical advice and is not an attempt to practice medicine or to provide specific medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This podcast does not create a physician- patient relationship and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please do not rely on this podcast for emergency medical treatment. Remember that everyone is different so make sure you consult your own healthcare professional before seeking any new treatment and before you alter, suspend, or initiate a new change in your routine.