The list of symptoms of the menopause range from dry skin to hot flushes, but a lesser known side effect is anxiety and low mood.
The levels of anxiety reported by women in perimenopause and menopause, are seen to be on the rise and often come at what can be a very challenging time in our lives.
Known as the “sandwich generation”; we are often juggling caring for children and elderly parents.
Add menopause and anxiety to this mix and its unsurprising so many of us are seeking counselling for the first time in our lives during our menopause or perimenopause.
It is thought that the decrease in hormones such as progesterone and oestrogen can have real effects on our mood and ability to cope with stress.
As the menopause approaches we often develop sleep issues and a general feeling of being physically exhausted and unwell.
All of this can have a real impact on our relationships and our zest for life. Which is a great shame as we often start to feel more comfortable in ourselves and are aware of what we want as we age.
Talking in therapy can really help you make sense of what you are feeling and help you develop a strategy for how you want to tackle the menopause.
I have really enjoyed working with women who want some coaching as they seek help; exploring HRT or alternatives, it’s a journey we all go through and it’s so nice to have some support.
Finding time to rest, introducing Mindfulness and looking at dietary changes can also make a real difference.
A previous client, Jenny was finding it difficult as her children left for university, she was also dealing with menopausal anxiety and sore joints, which stopped her running and gardening.
“Things that previously had never bothered me like driving on the motorway or dealing with my elderly parents in law, just made me anxious and really upset”, she explained in her first session. “My sadness and loss at my children leaving home, also felt overwhelming”.
Jenny had a full health check with her GP and after a few months of coaching, Yoga and HRT, she felt more balanced and ready for a new phase in her life.
“I realised I just needed some support to get through this time, I am so glad I asked for help, I wish I had done it years before rather than struggle on”
To have a sympathetic ear when things are so tough can bring great relief. It was why I decided to offer Menopause Coaching as part of my practice and it’s proving so popular.
If you want to see if this might work for you then please do get in touch and we can talk about what might help you.