Perimenopausal Depression: Understanding and managing - GP Event

Perimenopausal Depression: Understanding and Managing - GP Event

A Professional Development Session for General Practitioners

This comprehensive professional development session addresses a critical gap in primary care: the recognition and evidence-based management of perimenopausal depression. With depression rates increasing up to 16 times in women aged 42-52, yet remaining significantly underdiagnosed, this session provides GPs with essential knowledge and practical tools.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

1. Recognise the unique clinical presentation of perimenopausal depression and differentiate it from other mood disorders
2. Understand the hormonal, neurobiological, and neuroimmunological mechanisms underlying the condition
3. Identify key risk factors and comorbidities affecting perimenopausal women
4. Apply evidence-based pharmacological treatments
5. Navigate menopausal hormone therapy options
6. Address specific symptom clusters: vasomotor symptoms, cognitive changes, mood disturbances, and physical complaints.

About the Presenter

Dr Sangeetha Makielan MD (Hons), FRANZCP, Psychiatrist and Psychotherapist,

Dr Sangeetha Makielen is an Australian and UK trained, highly experienced psychiatrist with almost 20 years of experience. She currently runs two clinics in the Hills District (Baulkham Hills) and Sydney CBD.  

Dr Makielan’s expertise in perinatal psychiatry, where hormonal changes deeply affect mood, offers valuable insight into perimenopausal depression. Her experience supporting women through hormonal transitions, combined with an evidence-based approach to medication and psychotherapy, makes her well-equipped to help general practitioners identify and manage this often underdiagnosed condition.