It’s Not Just a Stage
Menopause and perimenopause are often treated as something you just “get through.” The focus is usually on the physical symptoms — the hot flushes, night sweats, or changes to your periods, but for many women, the emotional and mental shifts can be the most unsettling.
You might find yourself feeling more anxious than you ever have before, struggling to focus at work, or doubting your abilities in ways that feel unfamiliar. Perhaps you’ve noticed a loss of confidence in social situations, or you’re feeling less connected in your relationships. These changes can come on gradually or hit all at once, and it can be hard to know how much is menopause and how much is everything else life is throwing at you.
Understanding Perimenopause and Menopause
Perimenopause is the time leading up to menopause, when hormone levels begin to fluctuate. This stage can last for several years, and symptoms often come and go unpredictably. Menopause is reached when you haven’t had a period for 12 months in a row. In the UK, the average age is 51, but it can happen earlier or later, and sometimes unexpectedly.
While hormonal changes are a big part of the picture, they’re rarely the whole story. This stage of life often overlaps with other big shifts children leaving home, caring for ageing parents, career changes, or reassessing personal goals. The British Menopause Society (2023) reports that 80% of women experience symptoms during menopause, and 45% say these symptoms affect their quality of life.
Emotional and Mental Health Effects
Menopause can affect mental health just as much as it affects the body. You might experience:
- Mood changes — sudden irritability, low mood, or feeling emotionally fragile
- Anxiety — worrying more, sometimes without a clear reason
- Loss of confidence — in relationships, work, or personal abilities
- Brain fog — difficulty concentrating, forgetting details, or losing track of tasks
- Changes in self-image — feeling disconnected from your sense of identity or femininity
These feelings are valid. They are not a sign you’re “losing it” — they’re a natural reaction to hormonal shifts, compounded by the reality of moving into a new phase of life.
How Counselling Can Help
Counselling gives you a space where you can say what you’re really thinking and feeling — without anyone telling you to “just get on with it.”
We can work together to:
- Understand the connection between hormonal changes and mood
- Build coping strategies for anxiety, brain fog, or low confidence
- Talk through changes in relationships or intimacy
- Explore feelings about ageing, identity, and life direction
- Develop practical ways to manage stress at work or at home
Sometimes, simply having your experiences validated and understood can be a turning point.
Our Approach
At Hope Therapy & Counselling Services, we:
- Work with UK-based counsellors experienced in menopause and perimenopause support
- Offer sessions online, by phone, or in person — so you can choose what works best for you
- Provide a free 15-minute consultation so you can see if we’re a good fit before committing
- Keep all conversations confidential, respectful, and without judgement
FAQs – Menopause and Perimenopause Counselling
Q: Can counselling help if I’m not sure whether my symptoms are menopause-related?
Yes. You don’t need a formal diagnosis to get support — we can explore what you’re experiencing and help you plan your next steps.
Q: Will counselling suggest HRT or other medical treatments?
We don’t prescribe medication, but we can help you explore your options and prepare questions for your GP or specialist.
Q: I feel like I’ve lost my confidence at work. Can you help?
Yes. We can look at practical ways to rebuild self-esteem, manage concentration challenges, and reduce workplace stress.
Q: What if I’m experiencing early menopause?
Early menopause can bring its own emotional challenges. We can help you process these feelings and adapt to the changes at your own pace.
Q: Can I discuss other life stresses in sessions?
Absolutely. Menopause often overlaps with other pressures, and counselling can help you address them in context.