Menopause and Mental Health: Why It’s Time to Start Talking
In recent years, I’ve noticed a surge in discussions about menopause and perimenopause in my social media feeds. As a woman of a certain age, it’s only natural that these topics would catch my attention. However, what surprises me the most is how little I actually know about menopause, despite all the articles and posts I’ve read on the subject.
Growing up, conversations about women’s hormones were considered taboo. Periods were a hush-hush topic, and I gleaned most of my knowledge about menstruation from magazines like Seventeen and books like Judy Blume’s “Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret.” Fast forward to today, where period talk has become more normalized, but discussions about menopause still lag behind.
It wasn’t until recently that I even learned about perimenopause and its potential impact on me. A conversation with a friend about my struggles with ADHD and the link to low estrogen piqued my interest. I brought up the topic with my doctor, only to be told I was “too young” to worry about perimenopause. Months later, she circled back and asked about perimenopause symptoms, highlighting the confusion and lack of understanding surrounding this natural phase of life.
This is where resources like Mental Health America’s new perimenopause/menopause guide come in. It provides essential information on the basics of menopause and also delves into how it affects mood disorders and hormone levels. What’s more, this resource is inclusive, addressing the needs of all individuals, regardless of their birth sex or gender identity, who may go through menopause.
I commend MHA for shedding light on menopause and the importance of open dialogue around it. With 2 million people in the U.S. experiencing menopause each year, it’s time to destigmatize and demystify this process. Rather than shying away from the bodily changes that come with aging, we need to empower individuals with ovaries with the knowledge and support they need to navigate this phase of life confidently and healthily.
As someone who advocates for mental health and neurodivergence, I believe it’s crucial to start these conversations and break the silence surrounding menopause. Let’s embrace this natural transition and ensure that everyone has access to the resources and support they need to thrive during this significant stage of life.
About the Author: Kristen Abell is a director of website and digital projects, writer, and advocate for mental health and neurodivergence. Visit her blog at kristenabell.com/blog.
