We bet that you (like us) are juggling and simply hoping for a bit of peace and quiet occasionally… a hot cup of tea, the sacred sound of silence and nothing more.
We get it.
However, this time of life is crucial for building social networks and keeping friendships alive. I know this, because I said no for many, many years. I was tired, juggling work and family, as well as trying to create the magic in our family.
BUT. I was also frustrated and felt that no one understood how I was feeling. Run down, tired, stressed and let’s say quite a few emotional outbursts.
See, when we’re in our 40’s (and sometimes late 30’s), yes there is a bit on, but we’re also starting to experience hormonal fluctuations that can impact physical and emotional well-being. During this time, you might experience a range of symptoms, including mood swings, irritability, anxiety, and depression. Not to mention lack of sleep.
While hormonal changes play a significant role in these symptoms, the importance of social support cannot be overstated.
Social support refers to the network of relationships, friendships, and connections that provide emotional, practical, and psychological assistance during times of need. Research has consistently shown that social support plays a critical role in promoting mental health and resilience, particularly during periods of transition or stress. If you’re experiencing perimenopause, this social support can provide a vital source of comfort, validation, and understanding as you navigate the challenges of this phase of life.
The benefits are:
Connecting with others who are going through similar experiences. Sharing stories, insights, and coping strategies with women like you can help reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness, which are common during this time. Knowing that you're not alone in your struggles can provide a sense of solidarity validating your experiences and emotions.
There is nothing like a good vent occasionally. No one is going to understand the nitty gritty of your day like another woman going through the same thing. But it’s crucial to create a safe space, where you can say what you need to without judgement. You’ll feel so much better just by saying it out loud, and even having a laugh.
Whether it's practical advice for managing hot flashes, recommendations for effective supplements or treatments, or simply lending an empathetic ear, the collective wisdom and support of your friends or wider network can offer valuable insights and solutions for navigating perimenopause with greater ease and resilience.
Laughter, camaraderie, and shared experiences can boost serotonin and endorphin levels, the body's natural feel-good chemicals, promoting feelings of happiness, relaxation, and stress relief. Enhance your overall sense of well-being and resilience, buffering against the negative effects of hormonal changes and stress.
Obviously, our friends provide the greatest opportunity for a network of support. Trying to get that time together though is often the hardest task. Our tip is if you can, leave the family at home. We’ve all been there – trying to catch up at a park or playground (or eek…a trampoline park) where you end up chasing around after kids or shouting over the noise. Not quite relaxing or time for a good chin-wag, let alone a vent.
Instead of hitting a bar at night when you’re tired and likely to cancel, schedule in a walk somewhere nice, away from family where you can just…talk. This is when you can vent, be open and honest. Plus you'll have the added bonus of getting some weight-bearing exercise in. Win-win.
Say yes to something new. I’ve dragged friends (um…usually Kate…or she’s dragged me) to pottery classes, painting, pole dancing and pilates. Give yourselves a challenge, get out of your rut and surprise yourself. You might find yourself a new source of joy.
As per the above, we’ve been to comedy nights, burlesque and even a drag night. Get in a giggle, see something new and let some endorphins flow.
Hop to it, and book some time in now. You never know where it might lead. Eir Women was born from Kate and I walking and talking during COVID, venting, hypothesising, and creating something we knew we could do better.
Good luck!
