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Perimenopause

• Transitional phase before menopause
• Typically begins in your 40s (but can start as early as your 30s)
• Lasts an average of 4-8 years
• Characterized by irregular periods
• Fertility declines but pregnancy is still possible

Menopause

• Officially occurs 12 months after your last menstrual period
• The average age is 51
• Marks the end of reproductive years
• No more menstrual cycles
• Natural pregnancy is no longer possible

Both perimenopause and menopause can bring on symptoms like hot flashes, mood changes, and sleep disturbances. Those hot flushes, mood swings, and brain fog can really take a toll. With up to 55 different potential symptoms, it's no wonder perimenopause feels overwhelming at times. But don't lose hope! I am here to support you through this challenging transition.

Understanding Menopause, Hormones, and Mental Health

Menopause is a natural part of a woman's life, but it brings significant changes that affect both body and mind. As you approach menopause, your progesterone levels start to decline. This hormonal shift can have a profound impact on your stress resilience:

• Low  progesterone makes it harder for your body to activate the relaxation response of the parasympathetic nervous system.
• As a result, you may find yourself stuck in "fight or flight" mode more often.
• This can leave you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and wired.

In addition to increased stress sensitivity, many women experience other shifts in their mental health during this time, including:

• Mood swings
• Anxiety and low mood
• Depression
• Sleep troubles
• Difficulty  concentrating
• Lack of confidence
• Irritability

These changes can be overwhelming, but you don't have to face them alone.

How Can Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) Can Help

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is clinically proven to help women manage the emotional impacts of menopause. By addressing both thoughts and behaviours, CBT can help counteract the effects of hormonal changes on your stress response system. CBT can help you to:

• Challenge unhelpful thought patterns that may be exacerbating your stress response.
• Develop relaxation strategies and coping techniques for managing symptoms and activating your parasympathetic nervous system.
•  Improve sleep quality, which is often disrupted during menopause
• Boost self-esteem, body image, and confidence
• Reduce stress, anxiety, and irritability by building resilience
• Process emotional changes with self-compassion
• Enhance overall well-being and quality of life

CBT is recommended by healthcare professionals for easing many menopause-related symptoms, making it a powerful tool in your journey towards better mental health and hormonal balance. If you're experiencing these or any other menopause-related emotional or cognitive challenges, a tailored approach aims to help you develop effective coping strategies. 

 At Resilient Mind Therapies I offer therapy for menopause. You can access non-judgemental, supportive face-to-face sessions in Leicester or online in any of the surrounding areas: Oadby, Wigston, Blaby, Countesthorpe, Lutterworth, Broughton Astley, Market Harborough or the rest of the UK.