Menopause is one of the most natural transitions in a woman’s life, yet it remains one of the least openly discussed. Too often, it is whispered about, joked about, or dismissed entirely, when in reality it can have a profound impact on a woman’s physical, emotional, personal, and professional wellbeing.
The Mental Load of Menopause
We often speak about the physical symptoms: the hot flushes, night sweats, fatigue, hair loss, weight changes, and disrupted sleep. But we speak far less about the psychological toll. Mood swings, irritability, anxiety, sadness, brain fog, poor concentration, and a lack of energy. In some cases, these symptoms can resemble depression or burnout, which makes the experience even more overwhelming.
"What is concerning is the overlap between menopause and long-term stress."
Many women are already carrying the burden of demanding careers, family responsibilities and caregiving roles. When chronic stress and burn out meets hormonal change, the impact on long-term wellbeing can be significant, or even devastating.
Why Silence Makes Symptoms Heavier
Across the world, women are navigating menopause with too little workplace or societal support. A 2024 global Catalyst survey of almost 2 900 full-time employees found that 84% wanted more menopause support at work, while 72% had hidden their symptoms at work at least once. More than one-third said their symptoms negatively affected their work performance.
"In professional environments, menopause can be misunderstood as a performance issue."
Brain fog may affect memory and decision-making. Poor sleep can affect productivity. Anxiety can affect confidence.
Reclaiming a Measure of Control
Years ago, in my early 20s, I was training at gym when a mature, beautiful woman said to me, “I hate this ageing process.” As an upcoming psychologist, I arrogantly reasoned that it was “all in the mind.” She quickly corrected me, explaining that the hot flushes, hair loss, sagging skin, and mood swings were definitely not imaginary. Years later, I understood exactly what she meant.
And yet, I also believe that the mind plays an important role in how we support the body through this change. When a hot flush arrives and we respond with anger, shame, or self-criticism, that stress can intensify tension, headaches, rashes, or emotional overwhelm. Instead, we can practise a more supportive internal dialogue: “My body is changing. I can listen. I can respond. I can seek help. I can take small steps that support my wellbeing and mental health.”
"This is not about pretending menopause is easy. It is about shifting from a point of blame and overwhelm, to one of taking control and developing a more positive outlook."
What Support Can Look Like
Mental health support during menopause is essential. Women need compassionate healthcare, honest education, and safe spaces where menopause is normalised rather than hidden.
Helpful interventions may include counselling, psychoeducation, stress management tools, mindfulness, movement, nutrition support, sleep hygiene, and medical guidance, where needed. Small daily changes can make a meaningful difference, especially when women feel informed rather than embarrassed.
Employers also have an important role to play. Supportive workplaces can introduce menopause awareness training, psychologically safe conversations, flexible working options, wellness policies, and trained wellness champions. So much work remains to be done in this space.
Leading Through the Menopause
"Menopause is not a weakness, and it is not something to hide. It is a health phase, a leadership issue, and a human issue."
When organisations understand menopause, they protect talent. When families understand menopause, they strengthen relationships. When women understand menopause, they can move through it with more compassion and confidence in themselves, and for their peers.
It’s time to bring this conversation into the bedroom, the boardroom, and the workplace. Women deserve to be seen, supported, and valued through every stage of life.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Charissa is a radio and TV celebrity psychologist, and a global thought leader and media psychologist. Her keynote talks and training include mental health and wellness, burnout in the workplace, and building psychologically safe environments and cultures of trust. For details on her menopause-focused workshops and personalised counselling, visit www.charissabloomberg.com or reach out to Charissa at cb@hiddendimensions.co.za.
