Navigating Menopause

Menopause is a natural stage of life, but the physical and emotional changes can feel overwhelming. Both perimenopause (the transition leading up to menopause) and menopause can impact mental health, with many women experiencing mood swings, brain fog, low energy, anxiety, and changes in self-esteem.

What is Perimenopause and Menopause?

  • Perimenopause usually begins around the age of 40. Periods may become irregular, and hormone levels start to fluctuate. This stage can last between 1 and 10 years, with an average of 4–6 years.
  • Menopause is officially reached when a woman has gone 12 months without a period, typically between the ages of 45 and 55. Hormone fluctuations ease after this point, though many women continue to experience symptoms.

How Menopause Can Affect Mental Health

Menopause isn’t just about hot flushes or physical changes — the emotional and mental health effects are just as real. Some common challenges include:

  • Mood swings — irritability, low mood, or feeling more emotional than usual.
  • Brain fog — trouble concentrating, memory lapses, or mental cloudiness.
  • Fatigue — low energy or disrupted sleep making everyday life harder.
  • Anxiety — feelings of nervousness, worry, or even panic attacks.
  • Self-esteem — changes in body image or confidence related to ageing or physical changes.

Recognising the Signs and Seeking Support

Being in tune with your body is important. If you notice persistent mood changes, ongoing anxiety, or brain fog affecting your daily life, it’s worth speaking to your GP. Support and treatment options are available — you don’t have to go through this alone.

For women with a history of anxiety or depression, menopause symptoms may feel more pronounced. Your GP can help develop a plan that supports both your mental and physical health.

New Support Services Now Available

From 1 July this year, Medicare introduced a new service: the Menopause and Perimenopause Health Assessment.

  • This assessment is available for women experiencing premature ovarian insufficiency, early menopause, perimenopause, and menopause.
  • It allows your GP to conduct a targeted health assessment and management plan.
  • A Medicare rebate is available, meaning greater access to care and support during this life stage.

You Are Not Alone

Menopause is different for everyone, but you don’t need to navigate it by yourself. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by symptoms such as brain fog, fatigue, or emotional changes, your GP is here to support you every step of the way.

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