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Writer's picturejodypotts

Navigating the Storm: Understanding Menopause's Impact on Relationships



Meet my dear friend, Sara; our first UK recruit to our Global Silver Sirens community. We had an informative conversation about menopause over lunch on Sunday in the West End of London.

 

In honour of October's theme on menopause, I've been delving into Wendy Alexander's candid narrative of her menopause journey and its effects on her family.

 

Reading Wendy's experiences brought me a sense of relief that I was single during the most challenging phases of my menopausal transition, sparing my loved ones from the emotional upheaval that often accompanies this period. However, upon further reflection, it occurred to me that my menopause journey may have indeed impacted those around me, particularly my staff.

 

While many are aware of the physical changes associated with menopause, such as hot flashes and irregular periods, the emotional upheaval it brings is less often discussed. As hormones fluctuate, women may experience irritability, anxiety, and mood swings, which can strain relationships with partners, children, and even friends.

 

In her book, "Internal Uprising: Reclaiming Midlife Through the Menopause Transition," Wendy offers an honest account of her menopausal journey. She bravely discusses the challenges she faced due to her mood swings, which created a tense atmosphere at home and led her husband and daughter to avoid her during challenging moments. Wendy's story is not unique, as many women can relate to feeling isolated and misunderstood during this time.

 

Menopause is still vastly misunderstood, and women are often left to navigate this complex phase with limited support. In the Alexander household, the "How Feral is Mum Today" meter became a gauge for the family to navigate Wendy's emotional state. While this method might seem unconventional, it highlights the need for open communication and understanding within families during this challenging period.

 

Acknowledging the impact of menopause on relationships is crucial, not only for women experiencing it but also for those who love and support them. Here are some tips to help maintain healthy relationships during menopause:

 

  1. Educate Yourself and Your Loved Ones: Understanding the various physical and emotional aspects of menopause can create empathy and patience within the family. Sharing knowledge can help demystify the process and foster open conversations.

     

  2. Practice Self-Care: Prioritise your well-being by engaging in activities that promote relaxation, such as yoga, meditation, and regular exercise. Self-care can help manage stress and create a more stable foundation for relationships.

 

  1. Communicate Openly: Be honest with your family and friends about your challenges and how they can support you. Likewise, encourage them to share their concerns and frustrations so you can work together to find solutions.

 

  1. Professional Help: In my private practice, I frequently encounter women in their early 40s seeking help for symptoms of anxiety and depression. Upon closer examination, it often becomes apparent that menopause may be contributing to their emotional distress. In such cases, I refer these clients to a menopause expert for further evaluation and specialised support.

    Once the menopause expert has addressed the physiological aspects of their condition and provided the necessary resources to manage related symptoms, I can offer guidance on navigating the emotional challenges and develop strategies to help improve their relationships.

 

Menopause doesn't have to fracture relationships; instead, it can be an opportunity for families and friends to grow stronger by fostering understanding, empathy, and open communication. When we openly discuss the challenges of menopause and acknowledge its impact on our lives, we can create a more supportive environment for women to thrive throughout this transformative experience.

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