Age 57
Mother, family centred introverted extrovert and cat Mum
On sofa with cat Painting
I couldn't sleep and my behaviour became erratic. I wouldn't say I felt depressed, but I was anxious and I had a feeling of numbness and disassociation.
I knew I felt different mentally and physically; I felt a bit lost and definitely had the feeling that my motherly role was done, now my two boys were young men!
Of course, we are always needed, but maybe it's just historic that menopausal women should feel this way
At the time I was watching a sci fi series on tv where there was a parallel world called "The Upside-down" where everything was kind of the same as in the real world, but scarily unfamiliar at the same time!
I remember thinking "Thats where I am. I'm in the Upside-down!"
I went to the Doctors and I was put on anti-anxiety medication. HRTwas briefly discussed, but there were a couple of reasons why it may not be the best option for me at that time. However, in hindsight, knowing what I know now about the different kinds of HRT, I think it may have been a better option.
Throughout, I've been very lucky to have had the support (and patience!) of my fantastic husband, sons, sister, parents and great bunch of friends. Abig positive for me has been being part of a choir "Only MenopauseAloud" which was started by my friend Bethan. Being part of this has been brilliant. Not only the singing, but spending time with a big group of women of similar age. Having a big laugh has been invaluable and I can't wait to get back to it.
My other favourite pastimes are sea swimming, walking, gardening and painting, all of which really keep me grounded and help me unwind.
Coming through the other side of the Menopause, I'm more relaxed about who I am, and what I have/or haven't achieved. When I was young, I never had big aspirations career wise, but I always hoped I would have a family and I feel lucky to have achieved that.
Spending time with my family and friends is my most favourite thing!