Menopause Support Group
Menopause is the physiological cessation of menstrual cycles associated with advancing age. It normally occurs in women between the ages of 45 and 55, when the body begins to slow and stop the production of eggs, estrogen and progesterone production decreases, and menstruation diminishes, eventually stopping altogether.
I am going through a hard time with perimenopause. It has taken over my life and thoughts. I have not been to work for the past 2 weeks and to tell you the truth I do not know how I am going to be able to go back. I just feel like I am living outside myself and do not know who I am. I wont even go to a restaurant now.Leaving the house is even hard for me to do. I just feel so bad physically and mentally. Sometimes I feel like I am losing my mind. Is there anyone else out there feeling as bad as me?Anyone have any suggestions?
I know exactly what you are going through. I had a hysterectomy 13 years ago. I still have my ovaries and actually put menopause out of my mind...that is until last year. EVERYTHING was bothering me and I was blowing ALL things out of proportion. I cried a lot and felt nervous ALL the time. To add to that, I was having night sweats that kept me up all night long. In short, things were a mess and so was I. It got so bad for me that I, too, could not get myself to go to work. Leaving the house took a great toll on me. I couldn't even go to my childrens' houses without feeling dread. My husband and daughter convinced me to get help. First, I went to my gyn for a complete check up. We decided together for me to go on HRT with the lowest possible dosage for the shortest period of time. Since March of 07, I have reduced the HRT strength. I also went to see my MD who put me on and anti-anxiety med. Finally, I started therapy. It has been a year since that HORRIBLE time and I doing great. As I said, I have reduced the HRT, I still take the anti-anxiety meds (which also helps with the menopause symptoms), and I have completed therapy (I just go for a tune up now and again). The therapist helped me with relaxation/stress reduction techniques.
It is sad that when we hear about menopause we only hear about the mood swings, night sweats, and hot flashes. For many there is this component of SEVERE anxiety that often leads to some depression, too. But there is help. Seek out the professionals!
Good Luck!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!