As a reproductive endocrinologist specializing in women’s performance and hormone health, I encounter women struggling to thrive within their changing hormonal life stages. Juggling the demands of their careers, family life, and athletic pursuits can be encountered at any age, however the transition to menopause poses unique challenges.
As the more predictable hormonal patterns of reproductive age are becoming less predictable, stress management becomes more challenging. Symptoms of depression, anxiety, and mood lability can emerge and can sometimes be life-altering. In addition to optimizing muscle, bone, cardiovascular, and metabolic health, optimizing mental health by developing new coping strategies and skills can be a game-changer for thriving during this transition.
All women who live long enough will be faced with this life transition and we will all experience it differently. Whether you are an athlete, a CEO, or a professional home-maker, Mother Nature makes no distinction. But the great thing is that we can all learn from each other in developing new skills and perspectives. For myself, a wake-up call came to me during a vacation in New Hampshire when I realized the need to pay more attention to my own mental health. I took the time to unplug, engage in outdoor activities, and prioritize my family and personal well-being and adopted a morning meditation routine that I am still doing 1 year later.
Here are some tips for achieving your own “mental reset”:
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help: Coaches and mental health professionals can be great resources to begin your journey to better mental health.
- Plan to Unplug: Commit to setting aside time to prioritize mental and physical well-being.
- Prioritize and Let Go: Take a step back to prioritize what truly matters and be honest about what can be set aside. Check your ego at the door and create a priority list.
By acknowledging the importance of mental well-being and implementing strategies to prioritize it, women can better navigate the challenges of menopause and hormonal transitions while optimizing their overall health and performance. Don’t let hormonal change or the demands of life hold you back. Schedule a consultation with me and take control of your hormone health and performance today.