Christmas is supposed to be a time of peace, joy and goodwill but, according to a new survey by Newson Health, more than half of menopausal women (53%) are struggling to cope with preparing for Christmas Day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The survey of 3,672 menopausal women found that for 78% of them the run-up to Christmas, rather than the day itself, is the most anxiety-inducing period.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As Dr Louise Newson, GP and menopause specialist, says: \u2018December is often the busiest time of the year, juggling work, social engagements and preparing for the festive season. It can be easily overwhelming especially if you are experiencing menopause symptoms at the same time.\u2019<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The women surveyed attributed additional stress to low mood (45%), forgetfulness and brain fog (28%), and poor sleep (23%). Despite hot flushes being one of the most well-known and highlighted menopause symptoms, only 4% of women said that they are a significant contributor to their stress levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
So, it\u2019s no surprise that even for those who usually love the festive period, menopause has changed their feelings about it: 64% expressed a negative shift towards Christmas due to menopause symptoms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Unfortunately, it\u2019s not always easy to access the right support \u2013 18% said they drink more alcohol to help them copy while only 10% said that they seek help and support from family or friends.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If this is sounding familiar, take heart from knowing you are not alone. Dr Louise says: \u2018You may feel detached and isolated even among your friends and family, so it\u2019s so important to take time out and take care of yourself. Prioritising your mental and physical health is so important, be it getting out for a short walk, eating well or taking HRT.\u2019<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The majority of perimenopausal and menopausal women experience low mood and anxiety related to their changing hormone levels and many women find taking the right dose and type of HRT, often with testosterone, improves their symptoms. If you\u2019re already taking HRT, make sure you have enough supply for the Christmas season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The balance app has lots of free resources to help you understand and manage your symptoms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n