Navigating the Journey To and Through Menopause with Community

Menopause is a natural phase in a woman’s life. But just because it’s natural, and almost every woman will experience it doesn’t mean that it’s easy. Many women feel caught off guard by the changes that come with perimenopause (the transition period) and menopause itself.

The Real Challenges Women Face

Television and movies characterize menopausal women with dramatic hot flashes that wake them up at night, drenching their pajamas and sheets. Mood swings hit them out of nowhere, sending their emotions on a roller coaster. The brain fog is almost visible and makes them forget why they walked into a room. These aren’t just minor inconveniences—they deeply affect daily life, work, and relationships. 

Some women will experience menopause just as leading ladies portray it on the screen. There are many other symptoms women may also encounter, and their experience with the best-known symptoms can be wildly different than what is made to seem “normal.”

Many women also deal with trouble sleeping, weight changes, joint pain, low energy, anxiety or depression, and changes in their sex drive. These are real and common, but it is important that we realize and remember that every woman experiences menopause differently, just as every woman will have a different level of comfort when discussing the topic or asking questions.

Unfortunately, even when women are comfortable talking about menopause or gather the courage to ask for help, they aren’t always taken seriously. We’re hearing, too often, that women feel ignored or misunderstood. Unsurprisingly, they are also often left wondering, “Is this normal?” or “Am I the only one feeling this way?”

The Power of Not Going It Alone

Many tout strategies and coping skills for the different symptoms you may encounter, and yet the most overlooked but powerful strategy is connecting with other women who understand exactly what you’re experiencing. Women who join support groups often report:

• Relief from knowing their experiences are normal
• Practical tips they hadn’t considered
• Decreased feelings of isolation
• New friendships with women in the same life stage
• A safe place to laugh, vent, and sometimes cry

Women who build support networks navigate menopause with more confidence and less distress than those who try to handle it alone.

Support for Your Menopause Journey

You don't have to navigate perimenopause or menopause alone. Many women find that professional support makes a big difference during this transition. It’s not uncommon for women to join a support group and/or seek therapy. 

Our experienced counselors understand the physical and emotional challenges of perimenopause and menopause. We offer both individual therapy and group support options to help you:

• Develop personalized strategies for managing symptoms
  
• Work through emotional changes and mood fluctuations
  
• Build confidence in discussing your needs with healthcare providers
  
• Connect with others sharing similar experiences
  

Ready for Support?

Contact us today to Schedule An Appointment or call (833) 208-3201 for a free consultation. Whether you prefer in-person or virtual counseling, we're here to help.

Be sure to follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CounselingServicesPCHAS/ to stay up-to-date with new resources and events that support you throughout every stage of life's journey. Seeking support isn't just helpful; it can be an essential part of self-care during important life transitions.