6 Signs of Menopause and Anxiety

For some women, menopause is the signal that a new chapter of their lives is just beginning. The third act is full of possibilities. Unfortunately, menopause also comes with hormone fluctuations that can leave a woman tired, anxious, and with new physical conditions, such as hot flashes and headaches.

Some women never experience any symptoms, while others experience most of them. When it comes to mental health, anxiety worsens with the reduction of estrogen and the increase of cortisol and adrenaline.

Recognizing the signs of menopause and anxiety will enable you to seek help earlier and lessen the effects.

6 Signs of Menopause and Anxiety

Below is a list of common signs of menopause and anxiety. Not every woman experiences all symptoms, and some women never experience one. Speak with your doctor or a counselor if you experience any of the following or if the signs interfere with daily activities and quality of life.

Worry or Fear Anxiety, worry, and fear can prevent you from living your best life or continuing in your calling. Persistent worry can also keep you isolated from those closest to you.

Appetite Changes Hormone fluctuations combined with anxiety can change your appetite with cravings for unhealthy fare. Women vulnerable to eating disorders may increase their risk as they try to control weight gain and body shape changes due to hormonal shifts.

Sleep Issues The stress hormone cortisol rises early in the morning but may also stay steady throughout the day during menopause as other hormones decrease. This can cause trouble falling or staying asleep. Waking up in the middle of the night and being unable to fall back to sleep is common.

Mood Swings Irritability and mood swings are common signs of menopause and anxiety as serotonin and other feel-good chemicals decrease. It may be difficult to maintain emotional stability with body changes and physical ailments like headaches, combined with anxiety.

Headaches Fluctuating hormones throughout a woman’s cycle can lead to frequent and more painful headaches. Women may experience migraines during menopause as those hormones decrease. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help. In some cases, physicians may suggest prescription medication for migraines or consider Hormone Replacement Therapy to help lessen the frequency and minimize pain.

Panic Attacks If you are aware that you are having a panic attack, you are more likely to practice techniques to lessen its effects or stop them. Panic attacks come on suddenly. You may have a dry mouth, feel afraid, notice a tingling or numbness in your hands or feet, have trouble swallowing, rapid breathing, a fast heart rate, and nausea.

While panic attacks can occur with menopause and anxiety, you need to know when medical help is essential. Seek immediate help if you experience chest tightness or pain and a tingling sensation in your arm or hand. Panic attacks can closely mimic a heart attack. Rule out any medical conditions before self-diagnosing panic attacks. If it is panic attacks, counseling can help you learn how to minimize and stop them.

Christian Counseling Help for Anxiety

You can manage the signs of menopause and anxiety with lifestyle changes. However, you may need more support. Consider Christian counseling as an option. A Christian counselor will assess your symptoms, help you set therapy goals, and create a plan combining psychological methods with faith-based principles.

With God’s help, new skills and techniques, and education about menopause and anxiety, you can overcome the symptoms and look forward to the beginning of the rest of your life. Contact us today to get started.