Navigating Perimenopause
It’s possible that you’ve never heard of perimenopause, even though it affects millions of women. We all hear about menopause, but perimenopause? It tends to fly under the radar, leaving many of us wondering why we’re suddenly feeling physically and mentally out of sorts. You might find yourself thinking, “Is it just stress, or is something else going on?”
Well, that “something else” could very well be perimenopause —the transition period before menopause when your hormone levels are all over the place. It’s a time of change and doesn’t just affect your body. Your mind can also take a hit, sometimes in unexpected ways.
What is Perimenopause, and When Does It Happen?
Perimenopause isn’t a one-size-fits-all experience, and it can start in your 30s, 40s, or even your 50s. It’s the body’s way of preparing for menopause, with the average starting age being around 47. This stage can last a few months or stretch out over several years.
During this time, hormone levels—especially estrogen—fluctuate like crazy. You’ve probably heard about the physical side effects, like hot flashes and night sweats, but the mental health impact is just as real.
How Perimenopause Impacts Your Mental Health
You’re not imagining it if you suddenly feel more anxious, moody, or just… off. Perimenopause can mess with your mental health in ways you might not expect. Studies have shown that during perimenopause, women are more likely to experience anxiety, depression, and mood swings.
Some common mental health symptoms include:
Photo credit: Kindel Media
Brain fog: Struggling to remember simple things like names or where you left your phone? It’s likely linked to estrogen fluctuations.
Irritability: Snapping at your loved ones? Don’t beat yourself up—hormones could be the reason you’re on edge.
Sleep disturbances: Waking up drenched in sweat or just unable to sleep through the night? Poor sleep makes everything else feel worse the next day.
It can be frustrating, especially when these changes seem to come out of nowhere and impact your daily life.
Self-Advocacy: Speaking Up for Yourself
So, what do you do when you’re stuck in this in-between phase that no one seems to talk about enough? You advocate for yourself.
Self-advocacy means taking charge of your health and speaking up when things don’t feel right. Women’s health issues, including perimenopause, are often overlooked or minimized. In fact, studies show that women are less likely to receive proper healthcare for a number of conditions, including heart disease; this extends to mental health during perimenopause, too.
Tips for Advocating for Your Mental Health During Perimenopause
Track your symptoms. Jot down your mood changes, physical symptoms, and sleep patterns. This will give your doctor a full picture of what you’re going through and help you spot any patterns.
Be open with your doctor. Don’t be afraid to bring up your mental health concerns. If your doctor isn’t listening or dismisses your symptoms, it’s time to seek a second opinion. Whether it’s hormone replacement therapy (HRT), non-hormonal medications, or lifestyle changes, there *are* options to help you feel better.
Find your support system. Whether it’s friends, family, therapy, or an online group of folks going through the same thing, having a support system can make a world of difference. Sometimes, just knowing you’re not alone is the best medicine.
Practice self-care. Taking care of your mental health is essential right now. Carving out time for yourself is non-negotiable, whether through journaling, yoga, or just taking a few moments to breathe.
Moving Forward with Knowledge and Support
Perimenopause doesn’t have to be a time of suffering. By knowing how it affects your mental health and advocating for yourself, you can take control of this transitional period. You don’t have to just “deal with it.” There are resources and treatments to help you manage the symptoms, and above all, you deserve to feel heard and supported.
Remember, this is just one chapter, and it’s okay to ask for help.
