At some point in your life, you might find yourself feeling overheated or becoming irritated over things that normally wouldn’t bother you. When these experiences start happening more often, it’s normal to wonder what’s going on.
Perimenopause is a transition that can affect both your physical and emotional well-being. Understanding what’s happening and why may help you make sense of these changes and figure out what kind of support you need.
When Your Body Starts Acting Differently
As mentioned, the term “perimenopause” refers to the transition leading up to menopause, when hormone levels fluctuate. During this time, you might experience hot flashes, night sweats, changes in your sleep patterns, or difficulty concentrating. Your mood may also become less predictable, which can make you feel more irritable or anxious than usual.
These symptoms affect your routine in ways you might not immediately attribute to perimenopause. After a night of restless sleep, for example, you may have trouble focusing at work or find yourself getting upset over something relatively minor. If you’re also dealing with family responsibilities or other sources of stress, managing your usual routine might get more challenging.
You might start wondering why you’re reacting differently to situations you’ve handled plenty of times before. Though these changes can be unsettling, hormonal fluctuations may help explain what you’re experiencing. You don’t have to dismiss your symptoms or blame yourself for having a difficult time.
What Might Help You Feel More Comfortable?
While you can’t prevent every perimenopause symptom, there are a few adjustments that can make parts of your day easier to manage.
If night sweats are interfering with your sleep, try using breathable bamboo sheets or running a bedside fan. Keeping a change of sleepwear nearby may also save you some trouble when you wake up overheated.
Going to bed at a consistent time and keeping your bedroom comfortable might encourage better sleep, even if these changes don’t stop the night sweats or other symptoms.
It may also be beneficial to track your symptoms and sleep patterns. Ask yourself:
- Do you notice more trouble sleeping during certain periods?
- Are mood changes affecting your relationships or daily responsibilities?
Writing down what you experience may help you recognize patterns that you can discuss with your healthcare provider. A clear picture of what you’re dealing with might make it easier for you and your doctor to explore management options.
When Perimenopause Starts Affecting Your Emotional Health
Physical symptoms aren’t the only part of perimenopause worth taking a closer look at. Changes in your mood or sense of self may also need to be unpacked, especially if you’re having trouble understanding your reactions.
Therapy can provide you with a space to explore these experiences and consider how they’re affecting your life. You might discuss anxiety that’s difficult to place, concerns about changes in your identity, or disagreements with loved ones that have become more frequent.
Speaking with a mental health professional can also help you work through managing everyday responsibilities when you’re not feeling like yourself. If you need more support from your partner or family, a therapist can help you find ways to communicate those needs.
Finding Support During This Transition
Perimenopause can lead to questions about your health and well-being that you haven’t had to consider before. However, you don’t have to answer all of them by yourself. Speaking with your healthcare provider can help you make sense of your experience and find ways to manage the discomfort.
If you’re struggling and you’d like to speak with a mental health professional, reach out to DK Therapy to schedule an appointment.
