Menopause and perimenopause are often a time when women will seek out counselling to help them to manage their anxiety levels.
Women who may never have experienced anxiety before can find themselves worried and anxious about things that never bothered them before.
Fluctuating oestrogen and progesterone levels can cause changes in mood and anxiety and a changing body image can make some women feel unhappy in themselves.
As Dr Christiane Northrup writes in her book 'The Wisdom of Menopause', during the perimenopausal hormonal transition our brains, bodies and nervous systems are being literally “rewired”.
The issues that come up during this time should not be ignored or prescribed as 'just hormones'. This is a time to reflect and readjust the course of your life.
As there are several lifestyle factors that can exacerbate anxiety at this time, I will address these first.
Lifestyle factors play an important role in how well we navigate our way through perimenopause and menopause.
Many women report difficulty getting to sleep and staying asleep at times during these years. Unfortunately a lack of sleep contributes to anxiety so I recommend taking Biocare Magnesium Taurate and Viridian L-theanine & lemon balm supplements (check these with your G.P if you are taking medication). Sage supplements can also help with the shift in hormones and hot flashes. The temptation to have alcohol to help you sleep can be huge but alcohol will only exacerbate the issues at hand.
Symptoms of anxiety can be worse after the intake of caffeine so its worth swapping some of your coffee or tea for a decaffeinated version. Avoid caffeine after 2pm in the afternoon as it may impact your sleep that night. Some moderate exercise can help release endorphins and help you feel good about your body image. Take time daily to do an activity that helps you to feel calm and relaxed whether its going for a walk, listening to music, doing some art or creative activity.
Menopause is a period of time where women take stock and become clear about what they want out of life and how they want to spend their time.
There may be some healing to be done to release emotional baggage from the past that is dragging you down. Addressing the lifestyle factors above will bring about a healthier you as you go through menopause.
At the same time, journalling and/or counselling can help to bring clarity and direction. Speak about how you are feeling to trusted family and friends and if you are struggling with anxiety or you feel that you are ready to do some emotional healing, counselling may help.
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