Thriving Through Menopause

Menopause is a natural phase of life, but for many women, it can feel anything but natural when it’s happening. Yes, the hot flashes, night sweats, and physical changes get all the attention, but what about the mental toll? The anxiety, brain fog, mood swings, and even a loss of motivation can leave women feeling like strangers to themselves. 

As someone who’s walked through this journey myself, I can tell you it’s not just about managing symptoms – it’s about redefining who you are and finding tools to support your mental and emotional wellbeing. The good news? We’re finally breaking the silence on this topic, and there are more treatment options than ever to help women navigate this season of life. 

Mental health and menopause

The hormonal shifts of menopause – like the drop in estrogen – don’t just affect your body; they impact your brain chemistry, too. Estrogen plays a big role in regulating serotonin, the “feel-good” neurotransmitter. When those levels dip, you might experience: 

1. Anxiety and depression – those waves of worry or sadness that seem to come out of nowhere. 
2. Mood swings – the rollercoaster of emotions that can flip from irritability to tears in seconds. 
3. Sleep struggles – tossing and turning at night doesn’t just leave you tired – it affects your mental resilience. 
4. Brain fog – forgetting why you walked into a room (again) or struggling to focus on simple tasks. 
5. Loss of motivation – that inexplicable sense of “meh” that makes everything feel harder. 

The first step in tackling these challenges is understanding that they’re real – and you’re not alone.

From hysteria to healing

Not long ago, menopause and its mental health challenges were brushed aside or stigmatised. Women’s struggles were often chalked up to “hysteria,” with little thought given to meaningful solutions. Thankfully, we’ve come a long way. 

Today, we have a wealth of treatment options that acknowledge the complexity of menopause: 

1. Hypnosis – a surprisingly effective way to manage anxiety and even hot flashes by reframing negative thought patterns. 
2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – this practical form of talk therapy helps untangle the thought loops that can lead to anxiety and depression.
3. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) – by addressing the root hormonal changes, HRT can ease both physical and mental symptoms. Modern approaches are tailored to balance benefits and risks. 
4. Medication – for women who can’t or don’t want to use HRT, antidepressants or anti-anxiety meds can be life changing. 
5. Lifestyle changes – nutrition, exercise, and stress management aren’t just add-ons – they’re foundational for thriving during menopause. 

Supporting yourself through menopause 

Beyond treatments, there are simple strategies that can make a huge difference: 

1. Mindfulness and meditation – deep breathing, guided meditations, or even a few minutes of quiet reflection can work wonders for calming the mind. 
2. Movement that feels good – whether it’s weightlifting, yoga, swimming, or a walk outside, physical activity boosts your mood and your bones. 
3. Nourishing your body – a diet rich in omega-3s, whole grains, and fresh produce can help stabilise your mood. 
4. Finding your circle – whether it’s a support group or a good chat with friends, sharing your experience can lighten the load. 
5. Writing it out – journaling can help you process emotions and even spot patterns in your symptoms. 
6. Prioritising sleep – a consistent bedtime routine and limiting screen time before bed can improve your rest – and your resilience. 

Why talking about menopause matters 

Education and open conversations about menopause are more important than ever. The more we understand what’s happening in our bodies and minds, the better equipped we are to advocate for ourselves. And the more society normalises these discussions, the less isolated women will feel. 

Menopause isn’t the end – it’s a transition, and like any transition, it comes with challenges and opportunities. With today’s range of treatments and tools, women can approach this phase of life with confidence and resilience. Whether it’s through mindfulness, HRT, therapy, or simply leaning on others who understand, there’s a path forward that works for you.

Navigating menopause can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. As a qualified counsellor and hypnotherapist, I specialise in helping women manage the mental and emotional challenges of menopause. Through personalised support, hypnotherapy sessions, and proven techniques, I can help you regain balance, clarity, and confidence.

Ready to take the next step? Let’s work together to create a plan tailored to your needs. Contact me today to schedule a session or learn more about how I can support you through this transition.