Menopause is barely positive. (sorry this is long) Angie, from what I have learned over the past short while about Menopause, everything you are experiencing is Menopause to a tee.
The anxiety was one symptom that really sent me for a loop. Last year I had the stomach flu, (Norovirus to be exact). It laid me up for 10 days, 5 of which I missed work for. While I was sick my mind took me to such dark places, to the point I was convinced if I had to stay in the hospital I was in fact going to feel like I was in Jail. I became terrified. Fortunately once I started to feel better this passed.
I know the internet is full of junk and false information, but I once read on Pinterest (sorry for quoting another site on this site) that there are over 30 symptoms of Menopause. And all of them can consume us. And we can get 1 or 2 of them, 10-12 of them or all of them. There is no fairness to Menopause.
I won't take HRT because my mom has had breast Cancer 2 times so far in her life and I can't risk it, but boy the other options are not at all helpful for me.
I have repeatedly gone back to my DR and all she keeps telling me is, I can perscribe you anti depressants. I DID try them but they make my higher than a kite and I could not function at work.
Interestingly I find my medical Cannabis to be less mind altering. So I finally had to give in to the crappy symptoms and take solace in the fact that I do sleep at night thanks to the Cannabis and if that is all the relief I get, I will take it.
I endure the hot flashes, the crazy periods of anxiety, the memory loss, crappy hair, itchy skin, dry lady parts, and supreme joint pain (not to mention I have arthritis too) the best I can. It sure is no walk in the park.
I have tried pain killers, herbal remedies and diet modifications but nothing offers me relief.
I am thankful my husband and 2 daughters offer huge support and it's the best I can do. I can't change it so I just carry on through it. Not all days do I feel this positive mind you.
I do hope you and everyone else can find even the smallest bit of joy in life as you go through this magnificent time of our lives (see me roll my eyes here)
Good Morning Sunday 28th April 2024
BBC Radio 4Extra Scheduling Shake-Up.