#34: Perimenopause, Mental Health and Wellbeing - Navigating Hormonal Changes in Mid Life

Hello Therapy: Mental Health Tips For Personal Growth

Are you in the stormy seas of Perimenopause and feeling overwhelmed, lost and exhausted?
To mark Perimenopause Awareness Month, I sit down with Dr. Ella Woods, a clinical psychologist specializing in perimenopause, to demystify this often misunderstood life transition. Together, we explore the myriad of symptoms women may experience, from unpredictable menstrual cycles to heightened anxiety and night sweats. Throughout the episode Ella offers her expert insights into why these changes occur and how to manage them effectively.
Ever wondered what "peri-rage" is and why it happens? This episode unpacks the significant impact of declining estrogen levels on the brain and neurotransmitters, leading to increased stress, irritability, and even out-of-character reactions. We explore how these hormonal shifts interplay with individual psychological factors like past traumas and thinking patterns. Understanding these complex physiological changes can help you navigate this turbulent period with more compassion and less guilt.
Feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of lifestyle changes recommended during perimenopause? We've got you covered. We discuss practical strategies for managing stress, sleep, and overall wellness, from improving sleep hygiene to incorporating resistance training into your routine. We also discuss the importance of a nutrient-dense diet and the role of community support in maintaining your health. Tune in to equip yourself with the tools and knowledge you need to thrive through perimenopause and beyond.
You can get Ella's guide to confidently discussing perimenopause with your doctor here.
This week's guest
Dr Ella Woods is a Clinical Psychologist, expert in perimenopause and creator of The Perimenopause Balance Plan. Ella is certified in nutrition and lifestyle medicine by The Integrative Woman's Health Institute and also trained in mineral testing for midlife women. She is also the founder of The Child Psychology Hub, a private child and family clinical psychology clinic in Derby.

Follow Ella on Instagram
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***Check out Dr Liz White's YouTube channel for help with anxiety and OCD***

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DISCLAIMER - The Hello Therapy podcast and the information provided by Dr Liz White (DClinPsy, CPsychol, AFBPsS, CSci, HCPC reg.), is solely intended for informational and educational purposes and does not constitute personalised advice. Please reach out to your GP or a mental health professional if you need support.

Hoofdstukken

1. #34: Perimenopause, Mental Health and Wellbeing - Navigating Hormonal Changes in Mid Life (00:00:00)

2. Navigating Perimenopause (00:00:09)

3. Understanding Hormones and Mental Health (00:10:04)

4. Managing Irritability and Rage in Perimenopause (00:13:02)

5. Parenting and Managing Perimenopause Symptoms (00:15:18)

6. The Importance of a Nutrient Dense Diet in Perimenopause (00:21:03)

7. Self Compassion in Perimenopause (00:31:54)

8. Understanding Perimenopause Wellness and HRT (00:36:56)