How do you deal with peri symptoms with work etc?

[Cloud44]

I’m not feeling quite myself at the moment and I think it’s the start of peri symptoms, finding it tricky because I don’t have the energy/ motivation I used to in work and out of work. How do you cope with the symptoms and still enjoy day to day life?!

I don't know what your peri symptoms are like but I am always motivated by the thought of my paycheque and everything that it facilitates. 😀That spurs me to go into work and to make a good effort every time. So, keep your eyes on the prize!

I made my supervisor aware and read up on HR’s menopause policy. I have a spare top in my locker in case of hot sweats, also deodorant, body spray and sanitary towels (in case of flooding). I don’t really suffer with tiredness but I do get odd spells of anxiety in different situations and when that happens I take myself off for a few deep breaths and if I have the time, will go for a walk on my lunch break.

I think I’m mad but I’ve had to start a new job during this.

Trainer - you don’t need to write notes it’s all on the computer (me: yes I do) !
In the old days the next day or week I’d have gone but this time round I know no one else would put up with me 🙂

I enjoy going on my walks. Had a little cry Monday lunch break (I don’t know why) to anger Wednesday night.

Tried to find comfort in new colleagues not being right too, one lass had Tourette’s come on during covid19 (poor girl) so we’ve all a cross to bare.

My worst symptom has been brain fog. I’ve been honest with my manager and just let him know when I’m struggling. There’s only 2 of us in the office and we get on well so it’s fine. He also lets me know when he has man flu 🤣

I'm going through this now. My worst symptoms are brain fog, not sleeping enough and anxiety. I actually had a chat with my manager and told him my symptoms. He hadn't actually heard of perimenopause (he's a young man) but he's done loads of research and is being very supportive. He's telling me I can go home early if I need to, work more slowly etc. To be honest I think I'm generally OK but just wanted him to be aware as I'm occasionally making mistakes.

I talked to my manager and have been grateful when staff have told me they were peri. We have a flexible office so wfh is fine and staring late or early also OK.

I also discovered that I’m off an age where I don’t feel the need to demonstrate how hard I’m working….and I know how hard I do have to work sometimes and when I can just get the job done.

Ive also done the sums and could drop a day a week and be OK, or downshift in the job and be OK. That helped with anxiety. I’m basically through it knowso am watching slightly younger staff going through it and realising how much of the stuff I worried about at the time was just in my head…

practically, pads in desk drawer and switched to mooncup, deodorant in drawer and spare neutral top. Switching to decaf tea.