According to the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), more than 1.3 million women per year in the United States will reach menopause. The emotional insecurity this period of life involves can be difficult to deal with. Although there are physical changes also occurring, it's important to be aware of and address the psychological and emotional issues menopause brings.
Emotions
The emotional insecurity involved with menopause varies with each individual woman. The Cleveland Clinic lists anxiety, tension, mood swings, aggressiveness, sadness, lack of motivation, fatigue and difficulty concentrating as some of the emotions women may experience during menopause. However, each woman's emotional experience will be specific to her life and body. Emotional instability may involve drastic mood changes or subtle feelings.
Hormonal Changes
Although menopausal women who are experiencing emotional insecurity may sometimes question their sanity and ability to mentally function, the psychological element of menopause is valid. Contrary to what you may feel, you are not "going crazy" but are rather feeling the effects of changing hormone levels. Hormones affect moods, and menopause involves major hormonal changes in your body.
Other Changes
Other aspects of menopause, such as a reduced ability to sleep, weight gain, changes in sexual activity and physical appearance may produce normal emotional responses of anxiety or depression.
Often menopause is accompanied by children leaving home or the stress of caring for elderly parents. Experiencing the end of childbearing years and reaching what society can cynically view as the signpost of "getting old" can bring additional emotions of sadness, anger and frustration.
Seeking Help
Instead of labeling emotions as "silly" and ignoring this aspect of menopause, recognize the validity of these feelings and find the support you need. Although there can be a stigma attached to menopause and the fluid emotions that accompany it, the emotional responses to these physical changes are natural. Seek help from your health care professional for treatment or referrals for counseling. Build a support network of caring friends and family that can help you succeed during this time of life.
Coping
Although this emotional insecurity brings challenges, there are effective ways of coping and finding satisfaction in this stage of life. The National Women's Health Information Center recommends getting 30 minutes of exercise per day and finding healthy stress relievers such as art, music, breathing exercises and massage. Avoid caffeine and stimulating activity before you go to bed and keep a regular sleep schedule to promote adequate amounts of rest. Find community activities and hobbies that will allow you to invest in yourself and others and that will give you a sense of purpose.
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