The Hidden Crisis: Menopausal Depression and Suicide with Professor Jayashri Kulkarni
The Aging ProjectShow Notes
This episode is a raw, honest, and deeply compassionate conversation about the mental health crisis too many women face — and the silence that has surrounded it for far too long.
We’re joined by Professor Jayashri Kulkarni, a pioneering psychiatrist and Director of HER Centre Australia, who has spent her career transforming how we understand and treat women’s mental health — especially through perimenopause and menopause.
🔹 Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussion of suicide. Please prioritise your wellbeing and skip this conversation if needed. Support is available via Lifeline and Beyond Blue.
Why This Matters
Women aged 45–49 have the highest suicide rate of any age group in Australia.
For 20–30% of women, the emotional and cognitive effects of menopause aren’t just “hormonal mood swings” — they can become severe, debilitating, and life-threatening.
We’re shining a light on the women who’ve been unseen, unheard, and misdiagnosed, and offering real support for those still navigating this in silence.
What You’ll Learn
What really happens to the brain during perimenopause and menopause — and how hormonal changes affect mood, memory, and emotional regulation.
The truth about menopausal depression: why it’s still so misunderstood, and how to recognise the signs early.
The women most at risk — including those with no history of mental illness — and what puts them in danger.
Why standard treatments like SSRIs often fall short, and the growing role of natural therapies and personalised care.
How genetics, lifestyle, trauma, and social stress amplify mental health risks in midlife.
Key Tools & Resources
💡 The MENO-D Tool: A screening tool every woman should know about to assess menopausal mental health and advocate for better care.
🧠 Professor Kulkarni’s 30-Day Mental Health Reset: A practical guide to take back control of your mental wellbeing — through sleep, movement, nutrition, connection, and support.
A Conversation for Every Woman
This episode is dedicated to the women whose stories were never told — and to every listener who deserves to feel seen, supported, and empowered to seek better care.
Thank you, Professor Kulkarni, for your tireless advocacy and for giving voice to so many.
Links and Resources
Meno-D Tool
Download the Meno D Tool
https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/uploads/Webinars/MENO-D-score-sheet.pdf
Connect with Professor Jayashri Kulkarni
https://research.monash.edu/en/persons/jayashri-kulkarni
https://www.cabrini.com.au/find-a-doctor/profjayashrikulkarni/
https://www.instagram.com/prof_jayashri_kulkarni/
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