The Immunobiological Mechanisms of Depression in Perimenopause (PERI):

Our Perimenopause study seeks to understand why some women experience depression during perimenopause (a period leading up to menopause characterized by major hormonal shifts). Although perimenopause is known to be a high-risk time for developing depression, especially in women with a history of mood disorders, we still don’t know what biological changes actually trigger these symptoms. This research focuses on how the immune system and hormonal changes may interact to influence mood, with the goal of identifying new biological markers that can help predict who is most at risk. Participants will undergo a mental health assessment, complete questionnaires on mood, anxiety, trauma, and menopause-related symptoms, and have their blood drawn.