Loneliness & Menopause. – Yes, it’s a thing.  I get it. I’ve experience it. Have you?

As human’ beings’ (not doings) we need CONNECTION.

Midlife, perimenopause, menopause can be a lonely affair. We can feel isolated, even if we have family & friends around us, that love us. Feelings of loneliness can feel incredibly overwhelming for us, wanting to shutdown to protect ourselves.

There are so many possibilities as to why we may feel lonely in midlife – circumstantially, it could be that we are single, a single parent, grieving the loss of a family member, friend, pet, ill health, empty nesting or caring for elderly parents. To name a few possibilities.

Hormonal fluctuations can create physical & psychological challenges that can undermine energy levels, motivation, & confidence. Menopause can be a difficult time leading to loneliness and isolation. Isolation correlates to a range of physical and mental conditions. Many causes such as embarrassment, shame, personal/employment circumstances & stigma.

Let’s normalise this emotion. It’s OK to feel lonely. Loneliness could be masking other emotions as well, such as fear of vulnerability, low self-esteem, fear of judgement and/or rejection, shame and ‘people’ pleasing.

Let me start off, with what I like to do, when I notice feeling a tad on the lonely side – I get moving, or go out walking, and/or connect with nature.

How about?

• Starting or picking up a new pastime. Do things you enjoy. Find a group with a shared interest. Being part of an offline or online group/community or club
• Limiting social media & any potential ‘doom’ scrolling (boy, I’m doing a lot of that, of late)
• Notice how nutrition & movement can improve your mood
• Talk to people who “get you” – connect. Keep in touch with those around you. Message old friends or colleagues or set up a group chat on What’s app or Messenger may help you feel more connected. Share your feelings but don’t get into comparisonitis.

Feeling seen, heard and understood really helps to alleviate feelings of loneliness. Therapy can help to share the heaviness of your feelings. Get in touch

So how can I help YOU:

I work with the EMBERS® model, a Menopause-Informed Psychological Care framework aims to educate, validate, and empower women to implement strategies to regain control over their life, body, and mind during the menopausal transition and beyond. It’s a comprehensive therapeutic approach integrating an understanding of the physiological, emotional & psychological changes us ladies, experience during menopause, while also considering the broader context of your lives. This approach not only addresses symptoms but also considers factors such as physical & mental health status, relationships, work, & life stressors.