Is this likely to be menopause related?

[LookingForMyMojo]

Over the last 12-18 months or so, I've completely lost myself.

When I look in the mirror, I recognise the person staring back at me physically but the way I feel is completely unrecognisable.

I'm finding it increasingly difficult to go out and socialise. I've lost confidence/tolerance at work. I've done a hobby for years and I gave it up about a year ago because I just lost all confidence in my abilities and started getting ridiculous stage fright. I just feel I'm taking up space I have no right to occupy.

As an example, I went out with my partner at the weekend. But I didn't enjoy it. I felt self conscious and was almost rooted to the spot. I couldn't relax and it took all my focus and attention to just remain in the room. I came back from the loo and felt I didn't even have the right to go and stand with my partner. I just kind of stood near and behind him because it was too uncomfortable.

I looked around me at lots of women in their 50s and 60s, none of whom seemed to have this issue and all looked amazing and appeared to be confident and not plagued by inadequacy in any way. I just didn't feel I matched up to them at all.

I feel stupid getting dressed up for a night out like I have no right to even try. I don't look any different to I did two years ago but I feel like a completely different person.

I just want to stay at home. But I don't even feel comfortable with myself there. I just don't have to deal with the way I feel around other people. It's like an anxious feeling.

It's like who I am/was has just gone.

Is this likely to be menopause related? I'm 50 but I don't think I'm having any physical symptoms.

Probably resilience more than tolerance at work. I don't feel I have confidence in my abilities and doubt other people's confidence in me too.

Regardless of what it is, talk to your GP about how you feel.

That sounds very similar to how I felt before starting HRT, although I had fits of irrational rage too. Definitely worth a chat to your doctor.

Gosh yes. I feel pretty similar. It’s tough. Call
your GP.

Yes it could be menopause related. Given that you have no other meno symptoms be prepared for your GP to offer you anti depressants/medication for anxiety.

Discuss HRT, you could state that this would be your preference rather than other medication.
If you are prescribed HRT, be prepared for your symptoms to increase as you get adjusted to the hormones. It does settle but can be concerning initially.

I can totally relate to this @LookingForMyMojo

Starting to feel a bit obsolete at 50, can’t keep up with new technologies. My get up and go has gone! More short tempered than I used to be.

I don’t look massively different, just a bit stockier. But I expect to see and feel like 40 year old me but it’s a worn out version. Am hoping a new lease of life will happen post menopause! Am still having periods (if anything too many of them!) Does HRT really fix this? Do you start it while still having periods?

Yes, you can have HRT when perimenopausal.

Symptoms are not just the classic hot flushes and irritability. Brain fog, low mood, fatigue, inability to concentrate are all associated.

Also, HRT offers preventative factors to bone and heart health. Because of this, it’s not considered a short/mid term fix. Women can take HRT for life now.

Edited to add, HRT isn’t a cure all. It takes time to find the right form and dosage. I’ve been on HRT for several years now and still have times when symptoms are there. But it massively improves them.

I started Hrt at 47 and still having periods it was a godsend, although in 54 and off it now for various reasons but it really helped me, speak to your Gp.

Op I feel slightly like you and its just rubbish isn't it?