I was unprepared for the extreme anxiety I experienced in perimenopause and gained clarity on a way forward with the help of PhysiCards, the support of a trusted friend, journalling to track my symptoms, and weight bearing to strengthen myself physically.
Neurodivergent, with a diagnosis of ADHD, I’m no stranger to anxiety and depression but the next level rage and sadness that came with the onset of perimenopause was debilitating. My world seemed so small and lonely I needed to find a way out.
Because menopause is expected and considered to be a natural part of the life cycle, I assumed there would be a lot of knowledge available on the interaction of perimenopause with mental health. In my experience however, that wasn’t the case, and sometimes even specialists fell short of solutions to my symptoms. With persistence, after three to five years I gained a clear picture of what was happening to me and what I could do to manage it.
I started by making notes on my migraine pain which troubled me for up to 24 days out of every month, while the anger sitting on my chest was so extreme it caused me to push people away.
On top of this was the agony of endometriosis which runs in my family. I tried surgery to correct this in 2024 but despite doing everything in my power to prepare for a great outcome, I was greatly disappointed to find the operation was not fully successful and symptoms were still painfully present.
Undeterred, I overcame a deep scepticism to try an intrauterine device called a Mirena, which slowly releases progesterone, to improve my mood. To my delight and surprise, I began to feel better within days.
My dedication to selfcare has sustained me along this long journey to diagnosis and recovery. What worked for me?
Support. Having a trusted friend to encourage me in finding informed doctors who would actively listen and take on board my concerns. Her help with making appointments and checking in with me afterwards strengthened me to advocate for myself.
Journalling. For the purpose of tracking my symptoms and documenting what worked for me and what didn’t.
PhysiCards. Inspired by Flourish Australia’s Back on Track Health Program, these were so helpful for sorting out and gaining clarity on my health care concerns and priorities so that I could plan a way forward.
Weight Bearing Exercises. Something I enjoy 3-5 times per week, focused on weightlifting and Pilates Reformer workouts. This is a great way to support bone health during perimenopause and menopause and boosts my mood. When getting to the gym is challenging, I load myself up with a backpack full of canned food before walking or tidying my house.
Nutrition. Physical and mental wellbeing go hand in hand so paying close attention to avoiding added sugars and processed foods in my day to day eating is a healthy lifestyle choice I’ve committed to.
Empowered by finding a way to manage my symptoms, as a result of taking one step after another in the direction of wellbeing, moving into my new era looks a whole lot more appealing!
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