Supporting Women's Health - Perimenopause and The Menopause

SherryB has been supporting women who are struggling with stress, anxiety, and depression and who are finding it difficult to cope with the symptoms of menopause.

See below the links to Australian organisations supporting the emotional well-being of women as they navigate perimenopause and Menopause.

Menopause

Menopause marks the end of monthly menstruation due to the cessation of ovarian function, typically occurring between ages 45 and 55. It is confirmed after 12 months without menstruation without other causes. Some women may experience premature menopause before age 40 due to chromosomal abnormalities or autoimmune disorders.

Menopause can also be induced through surgical procedures or medical treatments. Additionally, some women may stop menstruating earlier due to surgeries or hormonal contraceptives but still experience menopausal changes.

Changes associated with Menopause

Hormonal changes during menopause can impact physical, emotional, mental, and social well-being. Symptoms vary greatly among individuals; some may have few, while others face severe challenges affecting daily life and quality of life, potentially lasting years.

Common menopausal symptoms may vary between women and may include:

Interrupted sleep
Low energy
Night sweats / hot flushes
Loss of muscle
Weight gain
Irritability
Depression
Lack of motivation
Worsening prolapse
Sore muscles
Burning joints / weak bones
Low libido
Dry skin

The common symptoms that are known include:

Body composition and cardiovascular risks also change, with women's advantage in heart health diminishing as estrogen levels drop. Menopause can weaken pelvic support structures and lead to osteoporosis due to bone density loss.

Various treatments exist for managing symptoms, and discussing concerns with a healthcare provider is essential.

Mental Health issues
associated with Perimenopause/Menopause

Perimenopause and menopause can cause a variety of physical symptoms, such as hot flashes and night sweats, but they can also have an impact on mental health. Some of these issues may include:

Mood changes

Many women experience mood changes during perimenopause and menopause, including irritability, anxiety, depression, and mood swings.

Insomnia

Sleep disturbances are common during perimenopause and menopause, and insomnia can contribute to feelings of irritability and anxiety.

Depression

Women may be at increased risk for depression during perimenopause and menopause due to hormonal changes and other factors such as life stressors and changes in social roles.

Anxiety and panic attacks

Hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause can contribute to feelings of anxiety and can even trigger panic attacks in some women.

Cognitive changes

Some women report cognitive changes during perimenopause and menopause, such as difficulty concentrating or remembering things.

Decreased sex drive

Changes in hormone levels can lead to a decreased sex drive, which can have an impact on a woman’s self-esteem and intimate relationships.

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Empower your
Growth by seeking support

Why Seek Support
By seeking support and treatment, women can better understand the changes they are experiencing and learn how to manage symptoms. Healthcare providers can provide valuable information and resources, such as therapy, support groups, and medication, to help manage mental health issues.

Some women may feel ashamed or embarrassed about their changes, which can sometimes prevent them from seeking support. At SherryB Psychology, I want to reduce the stigma around women’s health issues.

Seeking support for mental health issues associated with perimenopause and menopause can improve quality of life, provide access to resources, reduce stigma, and improve relationships. It can also help women prioritise their mental health during a time when they may be experiencing significant physical and emotional changes.

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How You Can Get Support

While perimenopause and menopause are natural processes, they can be challenging to navigate. However, there are many effective treatments and lifestyle changes that can help manage symptoms and improve overall health and well-being during this time. Women can work with their healthcare providers to develop an individualised plan for managing perimenopause and menopause symptoms.

Getting support for mental health issues associated with perimenopause and menopause can be essential in managing the emotional and physical changes that come with these natural biological processes. There are several ways to get support, including speaking with your healthcare provider, joining a support group, seeking therapy, practicing self-care, and talking to loved ones.

Talk to your doctor

One of the first steps in seeking support is to talk to your healthcare provider. They can provide valuable information and resources for managing mental health issues and offer treatment options, such as medication and therapy. Healthcare providers can also help you understand the changes you may be experiencing and provide guidance on how to manage symptoms.

Find support groups

Joining a support group is another way to get support for mental health issues associated with perimenopause and menopause. Support groups offer a safe and supportive environment to share experiences, learn from others, and receive emotional support. There are both online and in-person support groups available, and finding one that fits your needs can be helpful in managing symptoms.

Reach out to loved ones

Talking to loved ones can provide emotional support and understanding during this time of change. Family and friends can also offer practical support, such as helping with household tasks or childcare.

Prioritise self-care

Practicing self-care activities, such as exercise, healthy eating, and stress management techniques, can also be beneficial in managing mental health issues associated with perimenopause and menopause. These activities can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being.

Start therapy

Seeking therapy can also be an effective way to manage mental health issues during perimenopause and menopause. SherryB Psychology provides a safe space to explore feelings and emotions, learn coping strategies, and provide support during this time of change.

At SherryB Psychology, we hold our therapy sessions online, allowing you to get support from anywhere you feel most comfortable.