The impact of hormonal changes and menopausal symptoms may be different for every woman – but may include poor sleep, fatigue, and emotional changes to name a few. Some woman may find themselves managing these changes as a result of cancer treatments, or find themselves no longer able to use hormone therapies at a time of great stress. The impact of these changes can take a toll on your physical and emotional well-being, so its important to discuss care options with your GP, cancer doctors/care team, and specialist menopause services. 

For those without the option of hormone therapies or seeking a holistic treatment approach, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) strategies offer another option. CBT has been found in research to help with menopausal symptoms and provide both short and long term benefits (Ref). Psychologists can provide information on common emotional and physical changes, and strategies for managing anxiety and low mood, poor sleep, night sweats, as well ideas for increasing self-care, exercise, lifestyle changes, and working out how to live in line with what’s most important to you. Strategies may help with concerns that show up at work, in relationships, or with intimacy, to improve your quality of life. For information on how our psychologists can help, please call (02) 9453 3037 or email info@headwayheallth.com.au.  

REF. Ye M, Shou M, Zhang J, Hu B, Liu C, Bi C, Lv T, Luo F, Zhang Z, Liang S, Feng H, Qian C, Cao S, Liu Z. Efficacy of cognitive therapy and behavior therapy for menopausal symptoms: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Psychol Med. 2022 Feb;52(3):433-445. doi: 10.1017/S0033291721005407. Epub 2022 Jan 11. PMID: 35199638.