For many women, menopause is a life stage that arrives with little warning. While the physical symptoms, hot flushes, night sweats, and hormonal changes, are widely acknowledged, the emotional and psychological impact often remains overlooked.
In a candid interview, Jayne Jones shared her deeply personal journey through menopause, shedding light on the toll it can take and the resilience it demands.
The Unexpected Rollercoaster
Jayne describes her experience with menopause as a “bit of a rollercoaster.” Without the typical signposts, she found herself navigating unfamiliar emotional terrain without a clear diagnosis. “Some days you’re perfectly fine,” she explains, “and other days, you know something’s off but you’re not quite sure what.”
This unpredictability is a hallmark of menopause. It’s not a linear process but a fluctuating one, where symptoms can ebb and flow, making it difficult to pinpoint or prepare for.
Mental Health or Mood Swings?
When asked about mental health, Jayne clarified: “I wouldn’t say I’ve had mental health issues. I’ve had mood swings, yes, (my husband would certainly agree with that), but I see that as a normal part of life.” Her perspective reflects a view where emotional fluctuations are normalised rather than pathologized. However, she acknowledges that others might interpret these mood changes differently.
The Invisible Impact: Memory and Brain Fog
One of the most frustrating symptoms Jayne faces is memory loss. “That’s the biggest frustration I have,” she admits. “I used to be able to quote things word for word. Now, sometimes I just can’t remember words or facts” This brain fog, while not isolating thanks to her supportive circle, does affect her confidence and sense of self. “It’s not anxiety or depression for me, it’s just really annoying and frustrating,” she says. “But it’s real, and it’s daily.”
Coping Mechanisms and Lifestyle Changes
What stands out is her self-awareness and the strategies she’s developed over time. “You learn to manage it,” she says.
Jayne’s approach to managing menopause is rooted in self-care and natural strategies. She uses breathing exercises, chanting, yoga, and walking to stay grounded, and shared that weight loss has greatly helped her. She shares: “The heavier I was, the hotter I felt. Losing weight has helped massively with the hot flushes.”
She also leans on her family, particularly her sisters, for advice and reassurance. “Talking to women who’ve been through it is the best thing I’ve done,” she says. “Sometimes you just need to know you’re not going crazy.”
Support Systems and Workplace Awareness
While Jayne hasn’t sought medical treatment, she feels supported by her workplace. “It’s not a taboo subject,” she says. “I’ve spoken to colleagues and managers about it. Not because I want special treatment, but so they understand what maybe affecting me on a day-to-day basis.”
She appreciates the open culture but admits she wouldn’t attend formal support groups. Her preference is for informal, honest conversations with people she trusts. ‘Its important to do what’s right for you, listen to your own body and mind and act when you need to’.
How to Help: Advice for Others
Jayne’s advice for those beginning their menopause journey is simple but powerful:
- Give yourself a break. Don’t be too hard on yourself when symptoms hit.
- Talk to others. Especially women who’ve been through it. Their insight can be invaluable.
- Find what works for you. Whether it’s yoga, journaling, or just a good fan at night, small changes can make a big difference.
- Don’t suffer in silence. If you need help, ask for it, whether from friends, family, or professionals.
Understanding the Link
Menopause is more than a physical transition, it’s an emotional and psychological one too. The link between menopause and mental health is complex, often misunderstood, and deeply personal. Jayne’s story reminds us that while the journey can be challenging, it’s also manageable with the right support, self-awareness, and a bit of humour.
As public awareness grows and conversations become more open, we can hope for a future where no woman feels alone in navigating this natural, yet often overwhelming, phase of life.
Additional Support
For those seeking to better understand menopause and its impact on mental health, NPTC Group offers a range of accessible E-Learning Courses. These online resources are designed to support both individuals experiencing menopause and those who work with or care for them:
Menopause E-Learning Catalogue
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of menopause, support is available across Wales to help navigate this life stage with confidence and care. The NHS Wales website offers comprehensive guidance on symptoms, treatments, and when to seek medical advice: https://www.nhs.wales/womens-health/menopause/
Henpicked: Offers CPD-accredited workplace training, resources, and toolkits to help employers create menopause-friendly environments and support staff effectively.
FTWW (Fair Treatment for the Women of Wales): Advocates for equitable menopause care in Wales through policy engagement, bilingual resources, and community-led campaigns 2.
Menopause Support: This organisation campaigns for better menopause education in healthcare and workplaces, and provides free resources and advocacy.
The Menopause Charity: Delivers trusted, evidence-based information and support for individuals, families, and professionals, aiming to break stigma and improve care access.
Menopause Café: Hosts informal, inclusive events where people of all ages and genders can gather to talk openly about menopause in a supportive, non-judgmental setting.