Investigating a tragedy

The title of this Independent article by Rebecca Thomas says it all: “Calls for review of menopause link to poor mental health after woman’s suicide.” These are insights borne of tragedy and subsequent investigations into the death by suicide of 56-year-old NHS worker Frances Wellburn.

One of the most shocking observations in the story was that “menopause is not routinely considered a contributing factor among women with low mood who need help.” It was less of a surprise to me to read that “women are often prescribed antidepressants when hormone replacement therapy (HRT) would be more appropriate.”

According to the article, Ms. Wellburn’s sister stated that the family decided to share the details of her case “in the hope that others like her can be better supported to stay safe and recover.” It is my hope that what is learned from the investigations in this case have the desired life-saving impact.