03/03/2026
Sailing Through Menopause?!?
Have no doubt, menopause is a voyage. The key for all of us women; to arrive safely at our destination with minimal trauma along the journey.
A recent poll commissioned by the Royal College of Psychiatrists to over 20,000 psychiatrists found that only 28% of women were aware of the more complex mental health illnesses associated with menopause, compared to 93% who could cite hot flushes and low s*x drive.
For some women, already experiencing mental health issues such as bi-polar, and who experienced postnatal depression or had premenstrual mood symptoms were found to be at a higher risk of depression during menopause.
The findings also outlined that perimenopausal women are 30% more likely to develop clinical depression. Hormonal and physical changes associated with menopause may lead to a relapse or trigger the development of eating disorders. Su***de rates are also higher among women of menopausal age. (Guardian report, 2/3/2026, Royal College of Psychiatrists poll)
It got me thinking about all the times I have heard the saying ‘I sailed through menopause’ or ‘my mum sailed through the menopause’.
That is wonderful, truly, if that was your experience, but for many it’s just not!
The reality is the menopausal journey is as unique as the woman experiencing it. With over a 100 symptoms, life pressures and expectations, no wonder it can feel more like a super tanker labouring through stormy seas, as opposed to a yacht leisurely floating the azure coast of the Mediterranean!
A reminder that some of us are:
- sailing on calmer waters
- sailing through storms
- sailing for sunnier climates
- sailing head on into the hurricane
- launching from prettier ports
- launching a half blown up dingy from the beach
our boat might be:
- well equipped with a willing and competent crew and an up-to-date satnav
- a rowing boat that must cross the Atlantic solo whilst being harassed by pirates
Hormones during this phase of life are like the weather, unpredictable and liable to change on a sixpence.
From a bright sunny morning to a thunderclap in seconds, menopause has to be navigated with a firm hand on the wheel, with the sails set to give you the best possible chance the weather the storm!
What port are you leaving from and what boat are you in? Comment below👎
Get yourselves sea worthy! Grab a copy of the self help guide – Menopausal Madness for Beginners on amazon. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GF3F2XLG
Join the group ‘You’re not Losing the Plot’ . https://www.facebook.com/groups/4195382570790641/
