Cogntitive behavioural therapy

• Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is theory based and helps an individual to learn helpful ways of thinking and reacting in everyday situations.
• It has been found to be an effective treatment for women going through the menopause and can help women to manage anxiety, stress, low mood, poor sleep, hot flushes and night sweats. 
• Its use is supported by both NICE and the BMS.

NICE says: 

• Consider CBT for troublesome vasomotor symptoms, difficulties with sleep or depressive symptoms associated with the menopause. 
• When discussing CBT as a possible treatment for troublesome menopause symptoms, discuss available options such as individual face to face, individual virtual, group sessions, self-help and online resources.

• NICE recommends the SLEEPIO app which uses digital CBT for symptoms of insomnia. Various other apps are available.
• The BMS has published a quick reference leaflet for clinicians which supports CBT as a treatment option in the menopause.