October is Menopause Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on an often-overlooked stage of women’s health. Conversations about pregnancy and fertility are common, yet menopause—the natural biological milestone marking the end of menstrual cycles—rarely receives the same attention. Affecting roughly half the population, usually between ages 45 and 55, menopause brings a range of physical, emotional, and social changes that deserve recognition and understanding. 

Understanding Menopause 

Menopause is officially diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. It occurs when the ovaries gradually stop producing estrogen and progesterone, the hormones that regulate menstruation and fertility. This transition often begins with perimenopause, the years leading up to menopause, when cycles become irregular and symptoms first appear. 

Common Symptoms 

Menopause experiences vary widely, but frequent symptoms include: 

• Hot flashes and night sweats 

• Sleep disturbances 

• Mood changes, irritability, or anxiety 

• Vaginal dryness or discomfort 

• Weight gain and changes in body composition 

• Brain fog or memory challenges 

These symptoms can range from mild inconveniences to significant disruptions, affecting daily life, relationships, and overall well-being. 

Mental Health, Relationships, & Other Risks 

To understand the full impact of menopause, here are some statistics and findings that relate closely to mental health, relationships, and physical well-being: 

• Depression prevalence: About 28% of postmenopausal women globally report symptoms of depression.  

• Suicide risk & early menopause: Women who go through menopause early (before 40 or 40-44) face significantly higher risk of suicide compared to those in average age groups.  

• Diagnosis & mis-treatment risks: Many women’s mood disturbances during menopause are misdiagnosed or treated only with psychiatric medications rather than considering hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or hormone-informed approaches. (While studies do show some risks associated with various forms of systemic hormone therapy, local hormone therapy may carry different risk profiles.  

• Weight gain: On average, women between ages 45-55 gain about 1 pound/year during this period, due more to changes in lifestyle, metabolism, body composition, and aging, than hormones alone.  

These added stresses—mental health issues, weight changes, changes in self-image—can also strain relationships. There is anecdotal evidence and some research pointing to increased divorce or relationship difficulties during menopause, but strong, consistent statistical data specifically showing a rise in divorce rates tied directly to menopause is still limited. If you find reliable local data, including it may strengthen your argument. 

Why Awareness Matters 

Despite being a universal stage of life, menopause is too often surrounded by stigma, silence, or misinformation. Many women feel isolated or uncertain about where to seek support. By raising awareness, we encourage open dialogue, empower women to advocate for their health, and foster understanding in workplaces, families, and communities. 

Support and Treatment Options 

Managing menopause is not one-size-fits-all. Options include: 

• Lifestyle adjustments: Regular exercise, balanced nutrition (including managing sugar, protein, fats, and fiber), sleep hygiene, and stress management. 

• Medical treatments: Hormone therapy (when safe and appropriate), non-hormonal medications, and supplements (when advised by a healthcare provider). It’s important to assess risks and benefits individually. 

• Support networks: Counseling, support groups, peer networks, and open conversations with family or friends to reduce isolation. 

Looking Ahead 

Menopause is not an ending—it’s the start of a new chapter. With greater awareness, education, and support, women can navigate this transition with confidence, dignity, and strength. 

This October, let’s take the opportunity to break the silence, share knowledge, and stand together in supporting women through this important transition. 

Engage with others and spread awareness using the following hashtags: 

• #MenopauseAwarenessMonth 

• #BreakTheStigma 

• #MidlifeHealth 

• #MenopauseMatters 

• #HealthyTransitions 

Resource: Find a Certified Menopause Provider 

For those seeking medical professionals with special training in menopause care: 

• The Menopause Society (formerly North American Menopause Society) offers a directory of menopause practitioners certified to provide care through perimenopause and beyond. You can search by ZIP, telehealth, country, etc. portal.menopause.org 

• Let’s Talk Menopause also has a feature to “Find a Menopause Provider” to connect with clinicians knowledgeable about menopause care. letstalkmenopause.org 

Disclaimer 

This information is provided for educational and awareness-raising purposes only. It is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider about your specific health needs and before starting or changing treatment plans.