Hormones are integral to regulating various bodily functions, including our emotional state. When hormones fluctuate or are imbalanced, they may cause or worsen anxiety.

Anxiety involves excessive feelings of fear, worry, or nerves that interfere with day-to-day life. Although experts don’t know exactly what causes anxiety, factors like excess stress, genes, substance use, and trauma may play a role.

Research suggests that various hormonal shifts may also play a role in its onset. Here’s what to know, as well as how you can find relief.

Evidence strongly suggests that hormonal fluctuations or hormonal imbalances could contribute to anxiety symptoms.

According to a 2021 research review, adrenal and sex hormone dysregulation are associated with increased depression and anxiety. In particular, elevated levels of testosterone, the stress hormone cortisol, and estrogen were also associated with altered mood and anxiety scores.

Some 2022 researchTrusted Source states that women are twice as likely as men to develop depression or anxiety. While experts aren’t exactly sure why, they think it may be due to fluctuating sex hormone levels or hormonal imbalances, especially during menstruation.

Furthermore, the female sex hormone estrogen is a key regulator for the hormones dopamine and serotonin, which are integral to cognition and mood regulation.

According to 2020 researchTrusted Source, disruptions in estrogen pathways have been linked to worsening symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and bipolar disorder.

A 2020 literature review highlights older research stating that anxiety and depression are estimated to affect between 20% and 40% of pregnant people.

A 2022 review of researchTrusted Source highlights older research on female mice suggesting that hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy may temporarily alter regions of the brain that regulate emotions, including the hippocampus. According to researchers, these changes tend to stabilize within 2 years postpartum.

Experts think that cycles of ovarian hormones, particularly lower estrogen levels postpartum, may play a role.

Hormonal anxiety is highly individualized, but it may manifest as:

Working with your doctor and keeping a mood journal may help you keep track of your anxiety symptoms. If you notice that your symptoms tend to spike during certain times, such as before menstruation, then you may have hormonal anxiety.

Some ways to treat hormonal anxiety include the following:

  • Lifestyle adjustments: Lifestyle adjustments such as getting regular physical activity or exercise, managing stress, and getting quality sleep can ease anxiety symptoms. Consuming a balanced diet may also help.
  • Therapy: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other types of therapy may help restructure harmful thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to anxiety.
  • Postpartum support services: Postpartum support services,including doulas, may provide the specialized care you need to manage anxiety after birth.
  • Mindfulness: Mindfulness practices such as meditation may help relieve anxiety symptoms.
  • Hormone therapy: Hormone therapy may help treat anxiety symptoms. Talk with your doctor about the possible risks and benefits to see if this is the right option for you.
  • Antidepressants: Antidepressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may help stabilize mood and ease symptoms.

Research suggests that there is a link between hormone fluctuations and new or worsening anxiety.

Home remedies such as getting enough physical activity, practicing mindfulness, and getting enough quality sleep may help. CBT, postpartum support services, and medications such as antidepressants may also be beneficial.

If you’re experiencing anxiety, talk with a healthcare professional. They can help determine the underlying cause and advise on suitable treatments.