With the many changes that a woman's end of their reproductive cycle brings, it is inevitable that such physical changes cause psychological distress in one as well.
We have covered many of these in our previous articles, but for today we look into how menopause can cause distress in women going through it, seeking to illuminate the emotional turmoil that accompanies this transformative stage. With this, we can then provide insights and practical strategies to help women develop better resilience and emotional well-being.
Now, let us look at the symptoms of menopause that lead to distress and discover ways to alleviate them, working towards embracing the emotional aspects of menopause with empowerment and understanding!
Cognitive changes and memory difficulties
Menopause is often accompanied by cognitive changes, including difficulties with memory, concentration, and mental clarity. These changes can lead to frustration and distress for women who may perceive them as signs of aging or cognitive decline.
However, this is just plain misinformation. They do not represent cognitive decline at all, but instead is merely a signal of the onset of menopause. Categorising them as "ageing" is reductive too, as these are just natural bodily processes that all women go through at some point in their lives. It is never indicative of one's age or mental sharpness.
Sleep disturbances and fatigue
Many women going through menopause experience physical symptoms that affect their sleep, such as insomnia or night sweats. These disruptions can lead to chronic fatigue, irritability, and reduced overall well-being.
It is therefore important to address sleep issues through lifestyle modifications, sleep hygiene practices, and, if necessary, medical interventions. These can significantly improve emotional well-being and reduce distress, which is the primary end-goal, after all.
Loss of fertility and identity
Menopause signifies the end of a woman's reproductive years, and for some women, this loss of fertility can be emotionally challenging. It may lead to a sense of loss, grief, or questioning of personal identity.
Acknowledging and processing these emotions and exploring new aspects of identity and purpose can help women navigate this transition with less distress.
Impact on sexual health and intimacy
Menopause can bring about changes in sexual health, including vaginal dryness, decreased libido, and discomfort during intercourse. These physical changes, coupled with emotional factors like body image concerns, can affect one's sexual satisfaction and intimacy with your partner.
Make it a point to encourage open communication, explore different forms of intimacy, and seek marriage counseling in order to reduce any potential distresses.
Cultural and societal influences
Societal and cultural factors can play a significant role in shaping a woman's experience of menopause and distress. This is especially so in Singapore, where resources on menopause are scarce and a lack of understanding of what is happening to one's body leads to much distress.
In fact, many feel shame that they are underperforming both at home and at work. These psychological distresses pile on and leads to much embarrassment and unnecessary chagrin.
Surety is thus here to challenge regional societal norms. We hope to achieve this by promoting education and awareness about menopause, and fostering supportive environments can contribute to reducing distress and creating a more positive menopausal experience.
Conclusion
Menopause is a profound phase of change that can bring emotional distress. By understanding the complexities, seeking support, and implementing coping strategies, women can navigate this transformative journey with resilience, embracing the opportunity for growth, self-care, and emotional well-being.
Surety is here to help you out every step of the way!
Important Notes:
This article is meant purely for informational purposes and should not be relied upon as medical advice. Always consult a medical professional for specific advice on your health. This article has not been reviewed by any medical professionals or legal bodies.