Mental, physical and emotional support needed for menopause: This World Mental Health Day, 10th October 2022, Dr Anita Sturnham, GP for Meno Active, is supporting more women to talk openly about the issues they are facing during the menopause; especially encouraging them to shine a light on the physical and emotional struggles many women go through.
Whilst 50% of women will experience the menopause, we know that it will be entirely unique for each person. Until recently the menopausal journey was rarely talked about and as a result many women suffered in silence. The growing conversation around the topic will have without doubt significant impact on how current and future generations will manage their menopausal journey including greater recognition in the workplace, more open conversations within families and wider access to support, advice and therapies. With menopause an increasingly “hot topic”, a new survey commissioned by Meno Active1 has revealed the true extent of women’s experiences and concerns. Whilst it is true that most women (69%) are looking forward to the end of their periods and period pain as part of this new phase, there’s no doubt that it is taking a toll on mental wellbeing. 57% of women say they have been more anxious through this stage, as well as experiencing mood changes including; 44% becoming more emotional or sensitive, 21% having negative thoughts and 31% admitting to crying.
Despite these experiences, the survey reveals that most women are looking to manage their menopausal journey with positive steps. The top three ways women make themselves feel better when they are low are; going for a walk (47%), treating themselves to something new (30%) and going for lunch with friends (25%). In fact, support during this time is key, with many women (38%) relying on their friends.
Taking control of symptoms such as brain fog, low energy and hormonal imbalances is important, with 62% of women saying they would consider taking a daily supplement to support them through their menopausal journey.
Dr Anita Sturnham comments: “In the perimenopausal period we know that our hormones will start to decline, our periods will change and we may start to notice other things, such as gaining weight more easily and disturbed sleep as well. I find this period a crucial time to support women with diet and lifestyle measures and this often includes adding in a targeted supplement that helps to support symptoms such as brain fog, fatigue, sweats and mood changes. Rather than wait for things to decline, prevention is better than cure. Intervening before symptoms become significant, balancing out hormones and replacing nutrient deficiencies can help women to arrive at the menopause in a good place.”
Anita Sturnham is an internationally renowned Doctor, a GP specialising in Dermatology and anti-ageing medicine. With over 20 years of medical experience, she is known for her meticulous attention to detail and her ethical approach. Her winning bedside manner and empathetic nature are rarities in this industry and have gained her a loyal client following across the globe. Founder of Nuriss Skincare and Wellness clinics and Decree skincare, Dr. Anita is also a trusted media doctor, doing educational shows for BBC, ITV and Channel 4, Dr. Anita is a regular ‘go-to’ expert for top press and writes regularly for publications such as Refinery29, Sheerluxe, Tatler, Harper’s Bazaar and Women’s Health to name a few.
