How to stop menopausal anxiety at work

When the brain’s hormone centre (the hypothalamus) sees lower oestrogen levels in menopause, particularly receptors on the amygdala (the brain’s fear and panic centre), it seems to panic, decreasing production of the feel good hormones serotonin and dopamine and ramping up noradrenaline.

The end result is anxiety.

It can be really debilitating - so what can you do about it?

Fortunately there's lots you can do.

Firstly, it's really important that you manage your stress levels and get enough sleep, plus eat a nutrient-rich diet and ensure you’re exercising regularly.

Plus, here are 3 practical strategies for stopping your anxiety at work:-

1. Instead of reaching for a coffee, ensure you’ve got a box of delicious, relaxing herbal teas in your desk drawer. Chamomile, lavender, peppermint and tulsi teas are all calming. As is green tea which contains l-theanine an amino acid that may reduce anxiety.

2. Wear headphones and listen to calming music whilst working at your desk, this can help settle your mind.

3. Think about and then move 3 parts of your body – your fingers, feet or arm. Whenever you feel your brain going at 100 miles per hour, focusing on the feeling and movement can help bring you back to the present moment.