Understanding the Emotional Rollercoaster of Perimenopause and Menopause

"What's Happening to Me? I Feel Like I'm Going Crazy!" Understanding the Emotional Rollercoaster of Perimenopause and Menopause

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If you're navigating the menopausal transition and feeling like you're on an emotional rollercoaster, rest assured, you're not alone. Many women experience a surge in anxiety, mood swings, and even a sense of losing themselves during this time. It can be a confusing and overwhelming experience, but it's crucial to remember that you're not "going crazy." These emotional shifts are a common part of the menopausal journey, and with the right support and understanding, you can navigate this phase with greater ease and well-being.

As a Certified Menopause Coaching Specialist, Clinical Hypnotherapist and Strategic Psychotherapist, I'm here to offer guidance and support as you navigate this often turbulent time. 

Let's explore the reasons behind these emotional changes and how a combined approach of medical care, coaching, hypnotherapy and strategic psychotherapy can help you regain your sense of balance and calm.

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Decoding the Changes: What's Happening in Your Body?

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Dr. Mary Claire Haver, a board-certified OB/GYN, not just an expert in women's health, but a passionate advocate for educating and empowering women through menopause explains that perimenopause is a "transitional phase marked by fluctuating hormone levels, primarily estrogen." This hormonal shift can have a profound impact on your brain chemistry, affecting mood regulation, sleep, and cognitive function.

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Dr. Jen Gunter, another renowned gynaecologist and author, echoes this, stating that "Estrogen is not just a reproductive hormone; it plays a crucial role in brain health and emotional well-being." As estrogen levels decline, women may experience a range of symptoms, including:

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• Hot flashes and night sweats: These sudden sensations of heat can disrupt sleep and contribute to fatigue and irritability.
• Mood swings and irritability: Fluctuating Estrogen can affect neurotransmitters like serotonin, which play a key role in mood regulation.
• Anxiety and depression: Research suggests a link between declining Estrogen levels and an increased risk of anxiety and depression during perimenopause.
• Difficulty sleeping: Hormonal changes can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to fatigue, brain fog, and difficulty concentrating.
• Cognitive changes: Some women may experience memory problems or difficulty concentrating due to fluctuating hormone levels and sleep disturbances.

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Why You Might Feel Like You're Losing Your Mind

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Beyond the physiological changes, perimenopause and menopause can also bring about significant psychological and emotional shifts.

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• Loss of Identity: Dr. Haver explains that perimenopause can be a time of questioning and re-evaluating one's identity. As roles shift and priorities change, many women experience a sense of loss or confusion about who they are and where they're headed in life. This can be particularly challenging as societal expectations and personal beliefs about aging may conflict with this stage of life.‍
• Grief and Loss: The end of fertility and the physical changes associated with menopause can trigger feelings of grief and loss for some women. Dr. Haver encourages women to acknowledge these feelings and seek support if needed.‍
• Increased Stress: Juggling work, family responsibilities, and caring for aging parents can lead to increased stress and anxiety during this time. Dr. Gunter highlights the importance of stress management techniques and prioritising self-care to mitigate the impact of stress on emotional well-being.‍
• Social Pressures: As Dr. Gunter points out, "society often sends the message that aging is something to be feared and avoided." This can create pressure to maintain a youthful appearance and contribute to feelings of inadequacy and anxiety. In line with Dr Gunter, Girls Gone Strong (a platform dedicated to women's health and fitness) actively challenges these societal norms and encourages women to embrace their bodies and age with confidence.

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Expert Recommendations from Dr. Haver and Dr. Gunter

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• Acknowledge and Validate Your Feelings: Dr. Haver emphasises the importance of acknowledging and validating your emotions during this time. "Don't dismiss your feelings or try to tough it out alone," she advises. "Seek support from friends, family, or a therapist."‍
• Prioritise Self-Care: Both Dr. Haver and Dr. Gunter stress the importance of self-care during perimenopause and menopause. This includes getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and engaging in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Dr. Haver also recommends mindfulness practices and stress reduction techniques to promote emotional well-being.   ‍
• Seek Professional Help: If you're struggling with significant mood changes, anxiety, or depression, don't hesitate to seek professional help. As a therapist Menopause Coaching Specialist I can provide support and guidance as you navigate this transition.‍
• Consider Hormone Therapy: Dr. Gunter notes that hormone therapy can be an effective treatment for some women experiencing severe menopausal symptoms. However, it's essential to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor to determine if it's the right option for you.‍
• Challenge Negative Thoughts: Dr. Haver encourages women to challenge negative thoughts and self-criticism. "Focus on your strengths and accomplishments," she advises. "Remember that you are valuable and capable, regardless of your age or physical changes."

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How I Can Help

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As a Certified Menopause Coaching Specialist, Clinical Hypnotherapist and Strategic Psychotherapist, I offer a multi-faceted approach to support your emotional well-being during this transformative time.

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Menopause Coaching:

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• Education and Empowerment: I'll provide you with evidence-based information about perimenopause and menopause, empowering you to make informed decisions about your health and well-being.
• Lifestyle Modifications: We'll work together to implement lifestyle changes that can improve your emotional and physical health, such as stress management techniques, healthy eating habits, and regular exercise.
• Goal Setting and Accountability: I'll help you set realistic goals and provide support and accountability as you work towards achieving them.

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Clinical Hypnotherapy:

• Accessing the Subconscious: We'll use hypnotherapy to gently access your subconscious mind and address the root causes of emotional distress, such as limiting beliefs, and negative thought patterns.
• Reprogramming for Calm and Confidence: Through hypnotic suggestions, we'll work to reprogram your subconscious mind with positive affirmations and empowering visualisations to promote emotional balance, reduce anxiety, and boost self-esteem.

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Strategic Psychotherapy:

• Solution-Focused Therapy: We'll focus on your strengths and resources to help you find solutions to the challenges you're facing.

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Taking Control of Your Well-being

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If you're feeling overwhelmed and "crazy" during perimenopause and menopause, please know that you don't have to face it alone. By combining the support I offer in line with care from your doctor, you can regain your emotional balance, reduce anxiety, and navigate this transition with greater ease and well-being.

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References: References:

• Goldbeck, L., & Schmid, K. (2014). Hypnosis in the treatment of anxiety-related disorders: A meta-analysis. Clinical Psychology Review, 34(8), 613-625.
• Gunter, J. (2021). The Menopause Manifesto: Own Your Health With Facts and Feminism. Citadel Press.
• Hammond, D. C. (2010). Hypnosis in the treatment of anxiety- and stress-related disorders. Expert Review of Neurotherapeutics, 10(2), 263-273.   
• Haver, M. C. (2022). The Galveston Diet: The Doctor-Developed, Patient-Proven Plan to Burn Fat and Balance Your Hormones. Gallery Books.
• Peter, B., Kirsch, I., & Rozsa, S. (2010). Hypnosis-based treatment for anxiety disorders: A systematic review. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 66(12), 1260-1276.
• Schmidt, P. J., Nieman, L. K., Danaceau, M. A., Adams, L. F., & Rubinow, D. R. (2012). Differential behavioral effects of gonadal steroids in women with and in those without premenstrual syndrome. The New England Journal of Medicine, 338(4), 209-216.