The significance of hormone action in psychiatry has been long studied, now including the psychiatric effects of hormones on the aging process. This clinical reference addresses the hormonal basis of mental disorders in older people. Hormones influence a wide range of states and conditions, from pain tolerance and anorexia to attention, mood, immunity, cardiovascular and cognitive function, schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease. Written by an eminent team of psychiatrists, psychologists, geriatricians and neuropharmacologists, this book brings together established information and findings in four sections:An overview of the basic science of neurosteroidsSex difference and the roles that cortisol, thyroid hormone, and the sex steroids estrogen, progesterone, dehydroepiandrosterone and testosterone play in common mental disorders and pain sensitivityPsychoneuroimmunology in relation to ageSex differences and hormones in psychotropic drug metabolism in the elderly.

‘This reference text provides an excellent and comprehensive overview of the role of hormones (primarily steroid hormones, such as estrogens, androgens, glucocorticoids and thyroid hormones) in the aging brain and in relationship to mental health in the elderly … an excellent review of current knowledge in endocrinology related to geriatric psychiatry.’

Deborah R. Gustafson Source: Acta Psychiatrica

‘… an engaging read for those working on old age psychiatry … it brings things together clearly and offers a stimulating and enjoyable read’.

Susan M. Benbow Source: International Geriatric Psychiatry

‘… provides valuable information for clinicians and basic researchers alike in this complex and growing area.’

Glenda Gillies Source: Journal of Neurological & Neurosurgical Psychiatry

‘… clear, well presented … it offers plenty of ideas for future research in the area of endocrinology and psychiatry …’

Bebe Fahy Source: International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry