There are many women who find themselves experiencing unusual symptoms somewhere in their middle to late forties. They may start wondering why it seems so hot in a room when everyone else is comfortable. Perhaps they awaken with night sweats and begin to notice mood swings, irritability and irregularities in their menstrual cycles. For most, the symptoms tell them that it's probably just the beginning of menopause, and they may breeze through with little or no trouble. But for some others, this life changing event may bring on a hail of emotions that are difficult to manage and may bring about a midlife crisis.
Why some women dread menopause
Stories handed down by women who have had negative experiences in menopause can bring about a sense of dread and trepidation. Will my symptoms be severe? Am I still going to be a whole woman? Will my mate still find me attractive? There are many questions that can enter the minds of a woman who is unprepared to deal with the change of life.
How to know if you are in a midlife crisis?
Questioning our lives, our purpose and how other people perceive us is just a part of being a human. It's when we begin to have self-doubt, fear or depression that the questions can take an unhealthy turn. Yes, menopause is inevitable and there is no way to stop it. We can either accept it as the opening of a new chapter in life or choose to be happy, or the other alternative is to fight the inevitable and be unhappy. If you find yourself resisting the coming changes and in a state of grief, you may be in a midlife crisis.
Making healthy adjustments
If you must grieve, then allow yourself to do so. But don't remain in a state of mourning. Realize that menopause is the opening of a new stage in your live that brings with it exciting possibilities. You will discover that you have new found freedoms. Even though your child bearing years are over, you are still the same woman with the same character, beauty, charm and value that you have always possessed. If you are troubled by mild to severe symptoms such as hot flashes or moodiness, see your health care provider for advice on remedies that can get you feeling like your old self again.
Relationship with your partner
Often, this time of life finds women with an empty nest as children are grown and living their own lives. If you have a partner, this is an excellent opportunity for the two of you to spend more quality time together. Stronger bonding can occur as there is less to distract you from one another. In addition, may couples find that intimacy increases and they enjoy a healthy sex life with fewer interruptions since painful sex after menopause is treatable. This of course depends upon your desire and outlook on life.
Self-image
If you have a low self-image due to the changes in your body then do something about it. Weight gain is common, so a healthy and balanced diet with sensible exercise can help get you in the shape you want to be in. If you don't feel like you are sexy, then go out and get a makeover or treat yourself to a manicure or pedicure. Buy some new clothes that show off your best attributes, especially sexy nightwear. Sexy underwear can make a woman feel sexier even if she is the only one who knows about them. The bottom line is to love yourself and treat yourself like a princess now and then. It can do wonders for your self-esteem.
Conclusion
Although for some women, menopause can trigger more than hot flashes and mood swings, by recognizing the signs of anxiety and a low self-image, you can help to avoid a total midlife crisis. If you're already there, don't despair because there are steps you can take to correct the situation. By realizing that you are still the same valuable and special woman that you've always been, you're taking the first step. Pamper yourself, love yourself and realize that this stage of life can turn out to be one of the best you've experienced yet.