Menopause and Mind

Menopause and Mind Initial Research Findings on Menopause Support and Experiences

January 2024

The current state of support for peri-menopause in England is characterised by a growing recognition of the need for improved awareness, education, and support for individuals experiencing this life stage. Various organisations and healthcare providers in England are increasingly focusing on providing comprehensive information, resources, and medical support to address the physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of peri-menopause. Additionally, there is a rising emphasis on destigmatising conversations around menopause and enhancing workplace policies to accommodate the needs of individuals going through this transition. While progress is being made, there is still a need for further research, public health initiatives, and tailored healthcare services to effectively support individuals during the peri-menopausal phase. Significantly there is little to no research on trans and non-binary research, or the experience of minority ethnic and disabled groups., although national groups such as the Menopause Inclusion Collective and Queer Menopause have been working to rectify this.

Menopause and Mind are a community organisation established in March 2023 to provide inclusive support around menopause and mental health struggles in the Brighton and Hove area. Over the past few months, Menopause and Mind have engaged in research with 30 different individuals in the Brighton and Hove area experiencing perimenopause through our detailed survey. We collated the feedback from both free text responses and Likert scales (where respondents noted what extent they agreed with a given statement). While this is only scratching the surface of menopause services and experiences it gives a much-needed starting point to the issues and needs of those experiencing menopause related struggles and trying to access help in the local Brighton and Hove area.

The survey gathered data from 30 individuals between the ages of 40 and 60. The respondents expressed a significant need for better support and communication during the menopausal transition. Many reported a desire for more mental and emotional support, and a majority indicated negative impacts on work, family life, and social situations. The methods tried for symptom relief varied but leaned towards a holistic approach, including lifestyle changes, supplements, and medical interventions like Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT).

The majority of respondents (78%) agreed or strongly agreed that menopause had impacted negatively on their ability to work. Over half (56%) agreed or strongly agreed that menopause had impacted negatively on their family life and 80% agreed or strongly agreed that they had found social situations more difficult during their menopause transition. 83% agreed or strongly agreed that they would like more mental and emotional support during their menopause transition, with only 1 person agreeing or strongly agreeing with the statement that they had easy support to mental health issues around menopause.

Our data showed that only 2 respondents (7%) agreed or strongly agreed with the statement that they feel well supported with their menopause transition and only 37% of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that they had someone they could speak with about their menopause transition. Only 3 respondents (10%) agreed or strongly agreed that menopause support in the local area was inclusive. 78% indicated they would like more support with their mental and emotional wellbeing.

When asked what they had tried in relation to easing menopause symptoms the majority of respondents had tried exercise (78%), HRT (74%), vitamin supplements (74%), meditation or mindfulness (70%), dietary changes (63%) and natural remedies (51%).

In summary, the data suggests a significant need for better support and communication for individuals going through menopause. Many respondents express a desire for more mental and emotional support, and a majority report negative impacts on work, family life, and social situations. The methods tried for symptom relief vary but have a strong leaning towards a holistic approach, with a focus on lifestyle changes, supplements, as well as medical interventions like HRT.

The feedback also highlighted the diverse experiences of individuals with the National Health Service (NHS) during menopause, ranging from positive to challenging. Some individuals expressed frustration and dissatisfaction with the support received, citing difficulties in diagnosing and addressing symptoms, limited mental health support, and barriers to accessing HRT. However, positive experiences were also noted, particularly with specialist nurses and the availability of HRT-related advice through GP surgeries.

The survey respondents emphasised the need for increased knowledge and education about hormones and their mental health impact, more support from GPs, access to menopause specialists and gynaecologists, and a holistic understanding of the challenges associated with menopause. They also stressed the importance of greater support in the workplace, increased awareness, education, reduced stigma, and access to trained healthcare professionals.

The final report will provide more detailed insights from this survey conducted by Menopause and Mind in the Brighton and Hove area, focusing on the experiences of individuals during the menopausal transition. However, overall, the research underscores the multifaceted nature of support needed during the menopausal transition, encompassing emotional, informational, and societal aspects. It also highlights the potential positive impact of providing support during the menopausal transition on individuals and the wider community, including reduced depression and tension in the workplace, and a more supportive and understanding community. The report provides valuable insights into the experiences and needs of individuals during the menopausal transition, emphasising the importance of comprehensive support, increased awareness, and reduced stigma surrounding menopause.

The full report will be available February 2024.

Contact:              Dr Heather McKnight (PhD, Legal Studies)

Email:                   menoandmind@gmail.com