Stress

The quality of our mental health is also a communication from our body – just like the physical symptoms. It is signalling to us that something needs attention. Here are some of the factors that may contribute to ill mental health during this time, and are worth taking into consideration.

If you’re in your 40’s and you’ve noticed your anxiety starting to creep in, perhaps a racing heart before bed, a feeling of dread you can't quite explain, irritability that feels bigger than the moment calls for, there may be a reason. Many women in their 40s describe this exact shift and wonder how and why it has seemingly appeared ‘all of a sudden’ without any clear explanation that they can pinpoint.

If you've noticed some leakage when you sneeze, laugh or exercise or a sudden, hard-to-ignore urge to urinate since your periods stopped, you're far from alone. This is one of the most common and least talked about, symptoms that women can experience with menopause. It certainly doesn’t mean it is ‘normal’ – however, yes it is very common.

Many women in their forties notice a shift in their mental health before they ever suspect perimenopause. Here's why the hormonal connection so often goes unrecognised — and what to do about it.