By Deema Haddad,
Clinical Psychologist / Family Flavours magazine
In collaboration with Tajaddadi Initiative
She used to handle life’s demands with ease. Now she finds herself feeling anxious over things that never bothered her before. She forgets simple details, struggles to sleep, feels emotionally overwhelmed and wonders why she no longer feels like herself.
Many women experience these changes during perimenopause and menopause, yet few are prepared for the impact this transition can have on their mental health.
The Emotional Side
When menopause is discussed, the focus is often on physical symptoms such as hot flushes, sleep disturbances, or changes in weight. What receives far less attention is the emotional side of the experience.
A woman may feel anxious, irritable, emotionally sensitive, or susceptible to occasional fluctuations in mood. Many describe feeling exhausted, not only physically, but both mentally and emotionally.
Coping with Transitions
These experiences are real and they are more common than many women realise. Hormonal fluctuations can influence brain chemistry and affect mood, sleep, concentration and the body’s ability to cope with stress. However, hormones are only one piece of the puzzle.
For many women, this stage of life unfolds alongside profound personal transitions; children may be becoming more independent, her ageing parents may need additional care and support, relationships may be changing and professional responsibilities may be growing.
At the same time, she may begin reflecting on questions of identity, purpose and what the next chapter of her life may look like. The combination of biological and life changes can place considerable pressure on her emotional wellbeing.
Mental Health
Mental health should not be treated as secondary to physical health. Both are closely connected, especially during times of hormonal transition.
One of the most common misconceptions is that emotional difficulties during menopause should simply be tolerated because they are “part of the process.”
Mood changes are common during this stage of life. However, persistent anxiety, depression, panic attacks, sleep disturbances, emotional withdrawal, or a noticeable decline in day-to-day activities should not be overlooked. These symptoms deserve attention, understanding and appropriate support.
Investing in Emotional Wellbeing
Psychotherapy can play an important role in helping her navigate the emotional challenges that may accompany perimenopause and menopause; it provides a safe and supportive space to understand emotional changes, manage anxiety and build resilience during a period of significant transition.
For some women, psychotherapy may focus on anxiety or depression. For others, it may involve adjusting to changing family roles, rebuilding self-confidence, processing loss, or redefining personal goals and priorities.
When to Seek Support
Seeking psychotherapy is not a sign of weakness. It is an investment in emotional wellbeing and an important form of self-care.
She could consider seeking professional support if emotional symptoms persist for several weeks, interfere with relationships, affect work performance, disrupt sleep, or significantly reduce her quality of life.
Professional support may include psychotherapy, medical consultation, or a combination of both, depending on her needs. Early support can make a meaningful difference.
Menopause is more than a hormonal transition. It is also an emotional and psychological journey. Perhaps what we don’t say often enough is that she does not have to navigate this stage alone. With understanding, support and the right care, this chapter can become an opportunity for growth, self-discovery and renewed wellbeing.
You can contact Deema Haddad at: [email protected]
This article is printed with permission from Family Flavours magazine.
