Let’s talk honestly about menopause, ladies – it’s time we address the 48 symptoms that can change everything. Yes, 48. You’ve probably heard of the infamous hot flushes, but they can often just be the beginning. What’s even more important is the other 47 symptoms that go unnoticed or aren’t talked about enough.
While navigating menopause can feel confusing, it’s easy to focus solely on the physical changes – and for good reason. These symptoms are tough to ignore, and they can affect us deeply. But there’s a whole other layer to this experience that we often don’t talk about, the emotional and mental toll it can take.
The mental struggles of menopause, like sudden anxiety, feelings of isolation, and emotional upheavals, are rarely discussed openly, and yet they’re incredibly impactful. You might find yourself battling panic attacks, worrying about everything from family life to work, while trying to stay calm and composed for everyone around you. These silent struggles can leave us feeling like we’re going through it alone.
Let’s shine a light on the mental health side of menopause and talk about what can help.
First on the list is anxiety. Often the unseen disruptor during this phase, anxiety affects more than half of the women between the ages of 40-55. To put it in perspective, that’s over 8 million women in the UK alone. Hormonal changes, along with life stressors like managing family responsibilities, demanding jobs, and financial pressures, contribute to this overwhelming feeling. It’s more than just stress – it’s a hormonal storm that can leave you feeling physically unwell, too.
The key here is to acknowledge your anxiety. Recognise it, name it, and don’t be afraid to talk about it. Whether you whisper it to yourself or shout it out loud, just acknowledging it can be empowering. It’s like turning on the lights in a dark room – suddenly, things don’t feel as scary.
Right behind anxiety, depression can also creep in. It’s the uninvited guest that brings a heavy sadness and a sense of hopelessness. The good news is, like all the challenges menopause brings, it’s temporary. Holistic approaches and the simple reminder that “this too shall pass” can go a long way in easing the burden.
Next is irritability, which around 70% of women experience. This can be one of the most frustrating emotional symptoms, especially when declining estrogen levels leave us less able to cope with daily annoyances. You might find yourself wondering why the world feels more annoying than usual – as Caitlin Moran said, menopause can leave you “All. Out. Of. Nice.”
And finally, brain fog. Oh, brain fog – the constant forgetfulness that makes you wonder if you’ve misplaced your mind. You might find yourself misplacing keys, forgetting names, or even temporarily forgetting your spouse (oops). While this one’s not entirely hormonal, the combination of physical and mental changes during menopause makes it a very real issue.
So, how can you cope?
Here are some practical tips:
- Mind your diet: Cut down on caffeine, alcohol, and sugar, as they can make anxiety worse. Focus on blood sugar balance, which is crucial during menopause. Make sure you include protein in every meal and avoid processed carbs and sugar.
- Nutrient boost: A high-quality supplement can work wonders. Look for ones that contain Vitamin B, C, D, omega oils, and magnesium to support your body through these changes. If you’d like to trial a rich source of phytoestrogens, Promensil Red Clover supplements are a great option. Phytoestrogens work by naturally mimicking the action of oestrogen in the body. These can also be obtained through diet, for example: chickpeas and soya milk but you would need to consume a lot to get the recommended daily intake of 40-80mg of isoflavones.
- Get moving: Gentle exercise like walking or yoga can be incredibly beneficial. If you’re into something more intense, HIIT might be a good option. The key is finding a balance that works for you, as any exercise that boosts those feel-good neurotransmitters can help.
- Try mindfulness: Meditation, deep breathing exercises, and baths with magnesium-rich salts can help reduce stress and calm your mind.
- Stay connected: Talking about your experiences is crucial. Reach out to trusted friends, family, or professionals who understand what you’re going through. Bottling it up can do more harm than good.
If these lifestyle changes aren’t enough and your mental health is suffering, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Therapy and medication can be life-changing for many women. It’s all about finding what works best for you.
Menopause is a unique journey for each of us, and it’s okay if we stumble along the way. At least 8 million women are going through this at any given moment, so you’re not alone. Let’s keep the conversation going, reach out for support, and take care of yourselves. You deserve it.
Discover more about Made Of More; skincare that tackles the dermatological symptoms associated with fluctuating hormones, and its Clinical Lead, Dr Dhesi (GP and Women’s Health Expert) at – www.madeofmore.co.uk.
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