We all go through phases of life and menopause is just one of them. Some women look forward to this phase and others do not. Regardless, most of us hear about the physical symptoms but we don't always hear about the mental health symptoms.
The definition of menopause is "when you haven’t had a period for a full year. The average age of onset is 51. However, your body starts changing many years before you reach menopause. This stage is called perimenopause." I personally began my journey at 40 years old. I had an ablation and couldn't tell because I didn't have a period so it came as a surprise when the other symptoms occurred. I didn't know what was going on.
Some women feel the effects for only a few years and some for quite a few years. Know that it will end at some point.
Mood swings are most common. You can go from laughing to crying in seconds. Low estrogen can cause irritability, anxiety or depression.
Those with a history of depression, bipolar or schizophrenia can have exacerbated effects.
Low estrogen can be part of the cause for mental health difficulties. What does estrogen have to do with it? Estrogen acts everywhere in the body which includes the parts of the brain that controls emotion. In fact, estrogen increases serotonin and the number of serotonin receptors in the brain(the "feel good" chemicals). Low estrogen equals low "feel good".
As well as low estrogen, sleepless nights certainly will contribute to negative effects. Night sweats, heart palpitations, hot flashes would keep anyone up at night. Let's not even talk about the metabolic changes that include weight gain which all can play a major role in your mental health. Physical issues with the "down below" such as dryness can also pose problems with your personal relationship.
Good news! It isn't forever and there are strategies to help during this very special time in a woman's life.
As always, your current health may play a role but here are some tips.
First, topical Vitamin E applied to the lady parts can act as a natural lubricant.
For mood swings and irritability, yoga is very helpful. It combines exercise and meditation which may reduce the cranky and even hot flashes. Any exercise in general usually helps one sleep better.
Since you're feeling tired and cranky, you may reach for that extra cup of coffee or a cocktail but you may want to think twice. Caffeine and alcohol are diuretics and can lead to dehydration. Switch instead to cold drinks, fresh fruit juices or cold brewed tea. These will leave you cooler and you can reap the benefits of the vitamins and anti oxidants that tea contains.
Processed foods and sugar will not help with the slower metabolism. If you haven't already, kick the sugar habit, switch to berries and natural sugars. Include more protein in your day. Beginning your day with at least 20 grams of protein, will start you out right. Lots of vegies, less (not none) carbs and opt for whole grains.
These are not new thoughts as I'm sure you've heard them many times. A mind shift is in order now. We have a full life ahead but our youthful habits may be catching up with us. Menopause or perimenopause, it is not too late to make changes. This phase is a bit challenging but weren't they all? We are better equipped, we have the ability to research easier and there is more information on the subject. I challenge you to make the changes, use these strategies to help you through this phase.
Remember "And this too shall pass"
-2 Corinthians 4:17-18
