Although symptoms vary from person to person, research shows that nine in ten women experience mental health problems while going through menopause
It’s common knowledge now that the menopause can bring about a huge amount of physical and psychological changes.
The most talked about of these tend to be hot flashes, mood swings, fluctuations in libido, brain fog and night sweats.
However, there is a darker side to menopausal and perimenopausal symptoms that involve our mental health – specifically low mood, anxiety and even suicidal thoughts.
Research commissioned by Health and Her in 2019 found that nine in ten women going through the menopause experience mental health problems, and one in ten women experience suicidal thoughts due to perimenopause. Of course, it’s important to note that not all women going through the menopause experience mental health challenges as symptoms vary from person to person.
Turn2Me, a national mental health charity, has launched a free online Menopause support group giving women the opportunity to talk about their experiences, whether they’re peri-menopausal, menopausal or aren’t quite sure. It offers a platform for women to talk about the difficulties they’re facing in a confidential safe space.”
Suzanne Ennis, Clinical Manager at Turn2Me, said, “Whether it’s brain fog, low mood or you’re just starting to wonder if something hormonal might be going on – come join the conversation. You’ll meet other women going through it too, and our experienced facilitator will help guide the chat with practical informational, emotional support, and, importantly, a sense of humour. You don’t need a diagnosis or a definite answer to show up – just curiosity, a need to vent, or the desire to feel less alone. Come as you are – confused, curious, cranky or calm. Let’s talk about it all. You’re not alone, and you will feel better with support.”
The free online Menopause support group will run on Wednesday 23 July at 6pm. All attendees are welcome, and no referral is required to attend.
To sign up, go to Turn2Me.ie.
