The NHS Devon Partnership Logo. The logo reads NHS Devon Partnership NHS Trust. TALKWORKS main logo that reads TALKWORKS improving your mental and physical wellbeing.

What is the link between menopause and mental health?

Don't worry. You're not alone

menopause

What is menopause? 

Menopause is when your periods stop, marking the end of the menstrual cycle. It typically starts between 45 and 55 years, although for some it can begin sooner. Perimenopause and Menopause symptoms are caused by hormonal changes which can be a natural part of ageing but can also be as a result of illness, surgery or other circumstances, it can be a difficult and emotional time for many.

What are the side effects?

Here at TALKWORKS, we know that menopausal symptoms can vary from person to person. While some may suffer from physical side-effects of the menopause, others may struggle emotionally.  

You may find that your mood is affected, and you feel more tired, run down, irritable or low. You might also experience more physical symptoms including night sweats, irregular periods and a slowed metabolism.

Symptoms can change over time, and for some women, these will be very mild. Others may find them more severe and having an impact on their day-to-day life.  

We understand that trying to manage menopause side-effects can be hard, but please do remember that you are not alone in this. TALKWORKS is here for you and happy to help anyone who is struggling.

How can TALKWORKS help?

TALKWORKS can offer a wide variety of treatment and therapy options to help get you back to feeling yourself again. You can access 1-2-1 support with a therapist where we can use Cognitive Behavioural Therapy to help treat some of the physical and emotional symptoms that you may be experiencing. You will also be able to join our TALKWORKS for menopause group sessions, where you can share experiences and learn from others. TALKWORKS also gives you access to SilverCloud, an online self-help programme focused around improving low mood, reducing anxiety and managing stress.

Read Tracey's story to see how support from TALKWORKS helped her to clear her head when she was experiencing symptoms of menopause and get back to feeling like herself again.

TALKWORKS currently has short wait times, and a range of flexible appointments, including early morning and evening sessions. We can carry out treatment in a format that works for you, either online, over the phone or face to face. You can refer yourself to TALKWORKS without needing to see a GP first, either by calling us on 0300 555 3344 (our phone lines are open Monday to Friday from 9am - 4:45pm), or by filling in our self-referral form.


Your experience with us

Your feedback matters

“The therapy gently supported me to both understand and come to terms with my diagnosis and how it has impacted on me as a person for so many years. I felt I could be open and honest in a very safe space. I not only feel better, I understand myself better too.”

“I could not fault the service I received. I was listened to and given so many different resources to help my anxiety and depression. I was so very low a year ago but with the amazing support from my therapist I feel more and more myself every day. Thank you TALKWORKS.”

“I was apprehensive about using the service thinking I wasn't "bad" enough but a talk to the cardiac group by a TALKWORKS practitioner gave me confidence to self-refer. I was referred with respect and taken seriously throughout, felt safe and was given tools and advice to help myself take control of my situation.”