How Menopause Can Influence Your Psyche
Entering menopause often brings about mood changes. Many women report feelings of anxiety, irritability, "brain fog," and low self-esteem, and they often feel as if they are facing the end of an era. At this stage in life, some of us feel invisible and struggle to find a new role in society with which to identify.
These feelings are largely caused by the hormonal changes you are experiencing: the decrease in estrogen can destabilize your emotions and make you feel uncomfortable.
Furthermore, the physical effects of menopause, such as hot flashes, headaches, and joint stiffness, can negatively contribute, understandably leaving you feeling discouraged and low.
If you are experiencing any of these sensations, it’s important to know that you are not alone. Read on to better understand how menopause can influence your psyche and the steps you can take to face it as effectively as possible.
Mood States Associated with Menopause
Feeling Discouraged During Menopause
Hormonal changes associated with menopause can lead to low self-esteem and a bad mood. This happens because estrogen, which controls the menstrual cycle, also influences serotonin—a chemical responsible for feelings of well-being and happiness.
If you have ever experienced moments of depression, you might recognize some of these feelings as familiar; understandably, this can be frightening. It’s important to remember that these sensations are very common during menopause, can be treated, and will eventually pass.
Feelings of Anxiety During Menopause
Some symptoms of menopause can induce or be associated with feelings of anxiety. Hot flashes can closely resemble a panic attack, as they speed up your heart rate, leaving you feeling overheated and sweaty.
During menopause, you may also experience sleep difficulties, and lack of sleep could further increase anxiety.
Mood Swings During Menopause
Mood swings are a common symptom of menopause. The drop in estrogen levels can trigger shifts in your mood, making you feel like you have less control over your emotions.
All these factors can understandably influence how you feel and can also challenge your relationships with others. Being open and honest with yourself and your loved ones about what you’re going through can help you navigate this stage and help them understand your experience better.
Physical Factors of Menopause That Can Influence Mood
Many physical symptoms of menopause are well-known, such as weight gain, headaches, and joint pain. It’s no surprise that even at your best moments, one of these symptoms can leave you feeling down. As if that weren’t enough, during this period there is also a risk of incontinence, a condition that can further aggravate your mood.
How Not to Lose Confidence in Yourself During Menopause
Everything mentioned above can impact your self-esteem, but there are steps you can take to manage these feelings during menopause:
You’re already on the right track: educate yourself about menopause to understand what is happening in your body and what you can do to prevent and treat the symptoms.
Monitor your mood and identify recurring patterns: do certain situations make you feel sad or anxious? If so, try to avoid them.
Prioritize sleep: you might find it more difficult to sleep during menopause, so make positive lifestyle choices to improve your rest. Avoid coffee, tea, and energy drinks at least six hours before bed, as they can contribute to urinary frequency and nocturia. Quit smoking and find moments to relax.
Minimize stress by exercising regularly, following a healthy diet, and keeping your blood sugar levels stable. Meditation can also be beneficial.
Follow a nutritious diet: a balanced diet can provide you with more energy, reduce stress levels, and help you sleep better. Eating well also promotes good gut health, which in turn can stimulate serotonin production.
Talk with others—whether with friends, family, wellness professionals like psychologists, or other women going through menopause. Remember, you are not alone in this experience. Consider joining a support group or community online to get additional help.
The frequency and intensity of symptoms vary from person to person. Just because some of your friends have had a difficult experience during menopause does not mean you will too.
Remember that what you feel is normal, and this is an experience that every woman will go through at some point in her life. Keep in mind that there is much you can do to take control of the situation and prevent or minimize symptoms.
Don’t hide from menopause—embrace it. Share your experiences with others. You might be surprised by how many women, young and old, will benefit from your insights and want to hear what you have to say.
Getting Help and Support During Menopause
If feelings of anxiety and mood swings are affecting your daily life or relationships, and you find yourself really struggling, talk to your primary care physician. There is a solution, and you don’t have to face it alone. Your doctor can advise you on specific solutions and therapies to help you navigate menopause.
Remember, you are not alone in this process. At GoalValor, we have professionals specialized in female wellness and health who can offer you the support and resources you need to handle this phase in the best possible way. Don’t hesitate to contact us to receive the help you need.
