Anyone who has gone through the menopause will know that it can be a tumultuous time of life. I say 'can be' because not all experience the menopause in the same way.
Menopause awareness and education are crucial because menopause is a significant phase in a woman's life that can affect a woman physically, emotionally, and mentally.
1. Health and Well-being: Menopause affects women differently, and understanding its symptoms, such as hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances, can help women navigate this transition more effectively. All women should be aware of menopause symptoms beyond the most common ones.
By being aware of the potential health effects, women can take proactive steps to manage their well-being, seek appropriate medical advice, and make informed decisions about their healthcare. Talking to your GP, a GP/Menopause Specialists or looking for a Menopause clinic could be the first step as well as considering supplementing conventional therapies with more holistic practices.
2. Quality of Life: Menopause can have a significant impact on a woman's quality of life. By learning about menopause and its potential effects earlier in life, women can better understand what to expect and how to cope with the challenges when they arise. This can help them maintain a good quality of life and overall well-being during this transition period. Indirectly, friends and family are also affected when a woman is going through the menopause and the importance of their support, care and role cannot be underestimated.
3. Mental Health: Menopause is not just a physical change but also involves emotional and psychological adjustments. Hormonal fluctuations during this time can contribute to mood swings, anxiety, and depression. By promoting awareness about menopause, women are empowered to recognize and address these mental health challenges, ensuring they receive the support and care they need. Changes in hormonal levels can affect cognitive functions as Lisa Mosconi explains in her 10 minutes TED TALK.
4. Empowerment and Support: Menopause can be a transformative time for women - it could be a time to make lifestyle changes or consider a change of direction. Being knowledgeable about it empowers women to take control of their own health and make informed decisions. Awareness also plays a crucial role in breaking stigmas and finding supportive spaces - like women's circles - where women can openly and confidentially discuss their experiences, seek advice, and find comfort in knowing they are not alone on this journey.
Let's Talk Menopause are menopause awareness events - Opportunities for women to come together, support each other and share views, experiences, information, about menopause, its symptoms, strategies and options on how to alleviate the symptoms and have a better quality of life.
The first talk is on Tuesday July 18 at 6:30pm and will be focused on 'Hot flushes and stress in menopause'. For your diary, the next talk will be on 5 September - sign up to the newsletter to receive updates or call directly Ross on 07427 402799
Venue: Downs Lawn Tennis Club, 50 Holland Avenue, Sutton SM2 6HU
If you would like to attend and you are unable to attend in person, please let us know and we can arrange you to connect via ZOOM.
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