OCTOBER is always a busy month on the mental health and wellbeing calendar. This week, Friday, October 18, is World Menopause Day. I like to cover it each year, in the hope that I can do my bit to raise awareness about the physical, emotional, and psychological changes that women experience during menopause.

Despite being a natural life transition, menopause often comes with significant challenges, both for women themselves and their loved ones. One of the biggest barriers to accessing support is the stigma and taboo surrounding this topic.

The phrase ‘Oh she’s at a funny age’ is, unfortunately, still bandied around in many circles.

Menopause, characterised by the permanent cessation of menstrual periods, typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55. It marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years and is accompanied by a decline in oestrogen and progesterone levels. While the physical symptoms, such as hot flushes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness, are well-known, the emotional and psychological impact of menopause is often overlooked or underestimated.

Many women experience a range of emotional challenges during menopause, including anxiety, depression, irritability and difficulty concentrating. These symptoms can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life and relationships. Additionally, menopause can exacerbate pre-existing mental health conditions or lead to the development of new ones.

Despite the fact that half the population will experience menopause, many women are reluctant to discuss their symptoms. The fear of being dismissed, judged, or stigmatised can prevent them from seeking the support they need. This reluctance to open up, can lead to feelings of isolation, shame, and inadequacy.

It is important to break down these barriers and create a more open and supportive environment for women experiencing menopause. Healthcare providers must be trained to recognise and address the diverse needs of menopausal women. They should be equipped to provide comprehensive information about menopause, including its symptoms, causes, and treatment options, not just to women, but to their families, who can play a crucial role in supporting women during menopause. By listening attentively, offering empathy, and providing practical assistance, loved ones can make a significant difference in a woman’s well-being.

Women can also benefit from self-care strategies to manage menopausal symptoms and improve their overall well-being. These may include regular exercise, healthy eating, stress management techniques, and adequate sleep. Engaging in hobbies and activities that promote relaxation and enjoyment can also contribute to a positive outlook on life.

Earlier this year, I conducted a series of interviews with women who are experiencing menopause, as part of a course I was creating on the barriers older people face, getting help with their mental health. One of the biggest challenges many of them face, is that in addition to the symptoms they are experiencing, it is a time of their lives when they have to deal with many other issues, often feeling unsupported. For example, many women in their late forties may have teenage children who are perhaps at college, or at the point of leaving home to go to university etc. At the same time, they may also have elderly relatives who need extra care.

So, in effect, as well as having to cope with the symptoms of menopause, they are having to deal with the extra stresses such things can bring. This is also a time of life when many of the women I spoke with were also at the top of their careers, and dealing with the demands of juggling work, and home life. As one woman said to me ‘Menopause could not come at a worse time!’

There is still so much misunderstanding around menopause, and it is a subject many men shy away from, or simply do not understand. This can and does cause issues within relationships.

My take on all of this is that by raising awareness, breaking down barriers, and providing access to appropriate resources, we can empower women to navigate this life transition with confidence and resilience. Menopause should not be a source of shame or embarrassment. We need to educate men on this subject and increase understanding generally.

Please remember if you operate any type of support group withing the Bradford area, to help people with their mental health and wellbeing, I would love you to tell me about it, so I can include details at a later date. Please contact me at the email address below.

Please note: If you feel you are in a mental health crisis or emergency and may be in danger of causing harm to yourself or others then please contact your GP, go to A&E, call NHS 111, the Samaritans on 116 123 or text SHOUT to 85258

* Martin Furber is a therapist qualified in various modalities and an Instructor Member of Mental Health First Aid England wellbeing@martinfurber.com