Menopause during a pandemic

By Sharon MacArthur

Within 3 days all my work was gone. Everything I worked so hard for had stopped. 

I had heard of COVID-19. It had been mentioned well before Christmas. It was just like the flu wasn’t it? I’d had the flu once before in my early 20s and while I didn’t fancy getting it again I wasn’t really scared. 

 Then it all began. I was meant to be at a big awards dinner on 16th March. Cancelled. Then day after day each of my clients got in touch to say things couldn’t go ahead. Of course this was exactly the right thing to do but each one was like a another tiny cut. By the end of that week I found myself with nothing much to do. 

During my life I have succumbed to bouts of anxiety. A bad boss, the break-up of a relationship, but I wasn’t expecting this. It felt a bit like a black hole trying to swallow me up. 

My HRT was nearly out. I’d had problems for months trying to get it. Not having it wasn’t an option. This virus meant getting a doctor’s appointment was a nightmare, it was going to be weeks and the thought of running out terrified me. Being on HRT had given me my life back and the thought of stopping it wasn’t an option. My brain fog, hot sweats and tiredness seemed to vanish overnight. No way was I going back to that. So, I went online and researched pharmacies. I found a reputable one, a high street name, and managed to buy what I needed. Who knew you could do that? My wallet was lighter and I felt a wave of relief but it felt a little wrong too. Anyway, sorted or so I thought?

It’s been a slow turn around for me. I’m having more good days than bad. Work is really slow but I’m healthy and so is everyone I love so I have lots to be grateful for. Here are some of the things that have helped me:

Talk to people 

I’ve reached out to more people just for a chat. We are sociable animals and I knew I needed to speak to people even if I couldn’t see them. When I could, I dressed up. I even wore a hat to a meeting. I did it for me, but people smiled and it made them feel better too.

I sent out a couple of cards to friends. It felt great to think of other people and not just me. How shocked was I when I received a surprise bunch of flowers, chocolates and a colouring book. My friends are lush. 

Think about helping others

Helping others has been proven to help increase happiness. I’ve been offering my time for free and it feels great to be useful again. Making a positive difference in the world has always been my number one driver. Think about a tiny thing you can do, not what you can’t?

Kindness starts with yourself

I’ve been learning to give myself a break on the days I don’t feel great. I’m just being. I’m not superwoman so I’m not trying to be. If I don’t wash my hair or put make-up on is it hurting anyone? Bad days help us appreciate the good days. If you don’t feel like doing something, then don’t. Be kind to yourself.

Move about

While I hate exercise with a passion, I know it’s a good thing to do. I’ve been exercising with friends most mornings. We aren’t glam and my Mam who’s in her 70s is probably more toned than me but it’s a start. Music also helps and I have been known to jump about spontaneously to my favourite tunes. What’s your go-to tune to make you feel better?

It’s the little things

Nature never stops. I’ve noticed the birds singing, the colour of the flowers. The sound of the sea. I live very close. Without the noise of everyday life, I’ve noticed nature more and I love it.