When you’re in the throes of perimenopause it can feel really lonely and scary. We understand this to our core. And more than anything, we want you to know that you are not alone.
For me, I woke up one day and realized that I didn’t feel quite right. Like the colors in my life were all a little murky. The sounds, all a little muted. I had less energy, motivation and zest for life than usual. I felt like I had a layer of tears running just below my skin and that if someone scratched me, they would all come spilling out uncontrollably.
And then there were days when anger flooded my veins. When the slightest offence would send me into a tailspin of rage that felt really uncontrollable and violent. Guttural screams, slamming of doors, the overwhelming urge to thrown or hit something. Out-of-control emotions that were definitely out-of-proportion to their triggers.
I felt like an alien in my body. I looked in the mirror and barely recognized myself. The sparkle gone from my eyes and an extra 12 pounds appeared on my hips seemingly overnight.
For months, I struggled with these symptoms and emotions alone. I thought I was going crazy. That something was wrong with me because I couldn’t cope with my life anymore. I was having trouble sleeping at night and getting out of bed in the morning. I withdrew from my friends and family.
To say this was a really difficult time for me, is a gross understatement.
What eventually helped me start to climb out of this nightmare was talking with friends and learning that they too were having a difficult time. Although not necessarily suffering the same symptoms or issues, they too were feeling lost and confused. Lonely, frustrated and a little afraid.
The simple words, “Me too,” were such a soothing elixir. They brought a sense of relief that I can’t begin to explain.
And the more I shared, the more I understood that I was not alone.
The truth is that this time of life – mid 30s to mid 50s for many woman – can be a really challenging time. Due in no small part to the fact that we’re going through significant hormonal changes that we didn’t know were coming.
This is perimenopause
It’s a change that often arrives unannounced. Slowly ebbing it’s way into our lives, leaving us overwhelmed and confused. It’s something that women tend to not talk about. In our society aging is taboo and shameful. So we keep our struggles tight-lipped and under wraps.
This needs to change
And the truth is that it’s starting to. More and more women are speaking up about their experiences and sharing their truths. And this is how it starts. This is how we can ignite a spark and start to change the conversation around menopause and aging.
The truth is, despite how you might feel today, you are not alone.
In fact, by 2025, 1.1 billion women globally will be in the throes of menopause. Although every woman’s journey is unique, it will rock many of us to our core. The good news is that together we can navigate the challenges and support each other through this transition. We can end the silence and share our fears, celebrate our victories, and offer guidance and understanding. Together we can empower ourselves and one another.
Knowledge is power
When it comes to perimenopause, understanding the changes happening within our bodies is crucial. So let’s get smart. Let’s become body literate. Let’s start to prioritize our health.
The unfortunate truth is that many health care practitioners have as little understanding about perimenopause as we common folk do. For many reasons, it just hasn’t been a priority in medical education. It’s not likely that your doctor is going to bring up the menopause conversation with you. And it’s even less likely that they will be well versed in solutions to support you.
It’s up to you to take control of your health. To educate yourself. To learn to advocate for the best solutions for you. And at This Is Perimenopause, we’re here to help.
Resources to help you
This Is Perimenopause serves as a resource hub, providing valuable information on menopause, its symptoms, and strategies to navigate this chapter with grace and resilience. Together, we can arm ourselves with knowledge and take control of our health and well-being.
It’s a safe space to have open conversations about our experiences, share our stories, and normalize the discussion around perimenopause. By doing so, we create a path for other women to seek support, understanding, and the care they deserve.
The one thing we want you to know is that we’re in this together. Navigating the twists and turns, sharing the laughter and the tears, and supporting one another every step of the way. We’re here to say, “Me too!”
Because the truth is… We’re here for you. We’ve got your back.
You are not alone.
