“She’s just hormonal.”
“It’s part of aging.”
“Just focus on staying positive.”

These are phrases many women hear when they open up about how they feel during their 40s and early 50s. But the truth is—perimenopause can be an emotional rollercoaster, and the impact on mental health is often misunderstood or dismissed.

What Is Perimenopause?

Perimenopause is the transitional phase leading up to menopause. It can begin in the early 40s or even late 30s, and may last anywhere from a few months to several years.

During this phase, estrogen levels begin to fluctuate, and this can affect not just the body—but also the brain and emotions.

Common Mental Health Symptoms in Perimenopause

Many women report:

• Mood swings – feeling irritable, anxious, or low without clear reason

• Anxiety – sudden, unexplained nervousness or panic

• Sleep disturbances – trouble falling or staying asleep

• Fatigue – physical exhaustion that doesn’t go away with rest

• Brain fog – difficulty focusing, remembering things, or staying organized

• Crying spells – increased emotional sensitivity

• Loss of confidence – feeling overwhelmed by small tasks or self-doubt

These changes often come at a time when women are also balancing career responsibilities, teenage children, aging parents, and personal health.

It’s no wonder that emotional well-being takes a hit.

But It’s Not ‘Just Hormones’

Perimenopausal emotional distress is real, and while hormonal changes play a role, the psychological and social transitions of this stage amplify the stress.

Unfortunately, many women don’t seek help. They fear being told to “adjust” or worry that they’ll be dismissed as overreacting.

But here’s the truth: you deserve support—and there are effective ways to feel better.

How Mental Health Support Can Help

Therapy and psychiatric care can help women navigate this phase with:

• Better emotional regulation and mood stability

• Tools to manage anxiety and overthinking

• Support with relationship challenges and self-esteem

• Strategies to sleep better and improve energy

• Guidance around life transitions and role changes

• Short-term medication, where appropriate, to ease severe symptoms

Every woman’s journey is unique. Treatment isn’t one-size-fits-all. It can range from talk therapy and lifestyle modifications to hormonal consultation and medication—depending on individual needs.

Perimenopause Isn’t Just an Ending – It’s a Beginning Too

This phase of life doesn’t have to be one of decline. With the right support, it can be a time of renewal, clarity, and deeper self-connection.

Seeking help isn’t weakness. It’s self-care.

🧠 Support for Perimenopausal Mental Health
Dr. Srinivas Rajkumar T, MD (AIIMS, New Delhi)
Psychiatrist | Women’s Mental Health | Mood, Sleep & Emotional Support
📍 Apollo Clinic, 3, Bharathamadha Street, Opp. to MCC Campus, East Tambaram, Chennai – 600059
📞 Call/WhatsApp: 8595155808