Perimenopause—the sneak preview before menopause—can feel like Mother Nature’s way of keeping women on their toes. It’s a transitional phase where your hormones begin to fluctuate, often unpredictably, bringing a colourful cast of symptoms: hot flashes, mood swings, brain fog, sleep disturbances, and irregular periods. In short, it’s a time when your body seems to be rewriting the script without giving you a heads-up.
Imagine perimenopause as an emotional theme park—specifically, the rollercoaster. One minute you’re coasting smoothly through the day, and the next, you’re hurtling through a loop-de-loop of sudden heat surges, inexplicable rage, and crying at insurance adverts. It’s thrilling! It’s terrifying! It’s… a little sweaty.
Let’s set the scene: You’re in a work meeting, taking notes, when suddenly your body decides to throw you into what feels like an impromptu Bikram yoga class. You’re glowing (read: sweating buckets), your glasses fog up, and you’re desperately trying to look composed while internally screaming, why is it so hot in here?! Or perhaps you’re watching a romantic movie and dissolve into tears, only to start laughing mid-sob because even you don’t know what just happened. Spoiler alert: your hormones do.
And then there’s the infamous brain fog. It’s not that you’ve lost your mind—it’s just wandered off for a nap without telling you. You open the fridge and forget what you were looking for. You walk into a room and stand there like you’re in a live-action version of a memory game. One morning, I forgot the word for “spoon” while making breakfast with my 5-year-old. We ended up playing charades to solve the mystery. Breakfast was slightly delayed, but the miming was top tier.
Despite the confusion, sweat, and unpredictability, many women find solidarity—and even hilarity—in these moments. Swapping stories with friends becomes a kind of group therapy. Laughing about hiding in the freezer aisle just to cool down or accidentally crying in the car park can transform frustration into connection. So yes, lean on your girlfriends—we’re all clinging to the same ride bar.
Emotionally, perimenopause can be like living with a full cast of characters in your head. One day you’re zen and centred, the next you’re snapping at the dishwasher for breathing too loudly. Mood swings, irritability, anxiety, and even dips into depression are not uncommon. Some days, you may feel like a stranger to yourself—unanchored and out of sync with your usual self. It’s disorienting, and that’s okay.
Think of your emotions playing a game of musical chairs. The music stops and—surprise!—rage gets the seat. Or sadness. Or euphoria. You just never know who’s going to show up.
Managing the Madness (With a Little Grace and a Lot of Chocolate)
It’s not all doom and gloom, though. There are ways to ease the ride:
- Move Your Body: Regular exercise can lift your mood, reduce stress, and help with sleep. Even a short walk or gentle yoga can make a difference.
- Eat Like You Love Yourself: Fuel your body with a balanced diet full of colour—fruits, veggies, whole grains, and healthy fats. Bonus points if it includes dark chocolate.
- Sleep (or Try To): Aim for 7–8 hours of rest. Yes, we know this is easier said than done when your body’s turning into a furnace at 3 a.m., but good sleep hygiene helps.
- Practice Mindfulness: Deep breathing, meditation, or even lying down in a quiet room pretending you’re on a beach in the Maldives can help restore some calm.
- Talk It Out: Connection is key. Share how you’re feeling with someone you trust. If symptoms feel overwhelming, speaking to a therapist can be transformative. ( 6 free sessions at Turn2me.ie
- Know Your Stress Triggers: Your ability to tolerate stress might not be what it used to be. That’s okay—your nervous system is recalibrating. Take stock of your life. What can be changed, lightened, or delegated? You’re not a superhero (well, not every day).
And Finally… Essentials for the Journey
If I could recommend a perimenopause starter pack, it would include:
- A solid anti-perspirant
- Waterproof mascara
- Loose, breathable clothing
- Snacks (because, obviously)
- And a sense of humour with strong survival instincts
Perimenopause is a chapter—messy, surprising, and transformative. And like all great stories, it deserves to be met with empathy, strength, and the occasional eye roll. You’re not broken. You’re evolving. And even if it feels a little unsteady, you’re doing better than you think.
So, buckle up, bring a fan, and know this: you’re not alone. And yes, it’s perfectly fine if you need to laugh, cry, or sweat your way through it—all before breakfast.