Like every year 2024 began as a year filled with hope and anticipation. As the owner of Digital 24, I was preparing myself for some big changes to how we do business. Little did I know, however, that this year would become one of the most challenging periods of my life, both professionally and personally.

In January, I entered perimenopause—a transition I wasn’t prepared for, either mentally or physically. It came on the heels of a significant blow, where someone I trusted let me down, forcing me to take legal action. The emotional toll of that betrayal was profound, and truth be told, I’m still not over it. The combination of going legal, stress, and the onset of perimenopause created a perfect storm, one that I never saw coming.

The Pain of Perimenopause: A Battle on All Fronts

Perimenopause wasn’t just an inconvenience; it was a game-changer. My body started to betray me in ways I couldn’t have imagined. Severe brain fog clouded my thoughts, making it difficult to focus on even the simplest of tasks. My bones and muscles ached—an intense, unrelenting pain (if you know, you know). It was as if my body had aged decades overnight, leaving me to wonder if I’d ever feel like myself again.

The fatigue was another beast altogether. I used to thrive on long hours, handling the pressures of running a business with energy and enthusiasm. But now, just getting through the day felt like climbing a mountain. I was exhausted, not just physically but mentally and emotionally as well. My once sharp mind felt dulled, and tasks that were once second nature became monumental challenges.

Business, Betrayal, and Brain Fog: When It All Collides

Dealing with the fallout from the betrayal in my business while battling perimenopause was like trying to juggle knives while walking a tightrope. The brain fog was particularly crippling in a professional sense. I’d sit down to work, only to find that I couldn’t remember what I was supposed to do. Simple tasks felt insurmountable, and my confidence took a nosedive.

Imposter syndrome, something I had never struggled with before, suddenly reared its ugly head. I found myself questioning my abilities, doubting whether I was still capable of running my business. It was a crushing blow to someone who had always prided themselves on being confident and capable. The world of work seemed to be moving at a pace I could no longer keep up with, and it terrified me.

Seeking Help: Finding a Specialist

After months of struggling in silence, I finally sought help from a menopause specialist. Up until that point, I had been woefully ignorant about perimenopause. I didn’t realise how much it could impact every aspect of your life. It was like being hit with a bag of bricks—a sudden, heavy realisation that everything had changed, and I wasn’t equipped to handle it on my own.

It’s hard to explain to someone who hasn’t been through it just how disorientating and exhausting perimenopause can be. It’s not about hot flushes and mood swings; it’s a complete upheaval of your body and mind.

The Physical Toll: A Body That Won’t Cooperate

My body no longer had the stamina it once did. Over the past few years I have really been enjoying boxing and weight lifting as a way to stay fit and relieve stress. But suddenly, my body started saying “no.” Training sessions that I once powered through with ease became unbearable. My energy levels plummeted. It was as if my body had turned against me, and there was nothing I could do to stop it.

This physical decline was devastating. Exercise had been my outlet, my way of coping with the pressures of running a business. Without it, I felt like I had lost a crucial part of my identity. It’s hard to describe the frustration and sadness that comes with watching your body fail you, especially when you’ve taken pride in your strength and resilience.

The Mental Strain: When Your Mind Plays Tricks on You

The mental aspect of perimenopause was perhaps even more challenging than the physical symptoms. The brain fog was relentless, making it difficult to think clearly or make decisions. I found myself second-guessing everything, unsure if I could trust my own judgement. It was like trying to navigate a maze with a blindfold on, never knowing if I was making the right move.

This mental strain spilled over into my work. I couldn’t focus now could I remember important details. The imposter syndrome grew stronger with each passing day.

Why We Need to Talk About Menopause in the Workplace

One of the things that strikes me the most is the lack of support for women going through menopause in the workplace. There’s plenty of talk about supporting new mothers as they return to work, but what about women who are dealing with menopause? The silence around this issue is deafening, but it is starting to change – or maybe I am just more acutely aware.

Menopause is a natural part of life, but it’s also a significant challenge that can impact every aspect of a woman’s career. We need more conversations, more understanding, and more support for women who are navigating this difficult transition. It’s not just about offering flexible working hours or understanding when someone needs to take a day off; it’s about creating a culture where women feel safe to talk about what they’re going through without fear of judgement or stigma.

Moving Forward: Embracing Change and Building Resilience

As I continue to navigate the complexities of perimenopause, I’m learning to embrace change and build resilience. This isn’t the journey I expected. I’m focusing on finding new ways to be effective, even when my body and mind aren’t cooperating.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of transparency. Being open about my experiences has been liberating. We’re all human, and we all face challenges; pretending otherwise only makes things harder.

Let’s Support Women Through Menopause

As I move forward, I’m more committed than ever to advocating for more support for women going through menopause in the workplace. This isn’t just about me; it’s about creating a better environment for all women, where they can thrive at every stage of their lives. We need more conversations, more understanding, and more action to ensure that women are supported through this transition.

Menopause is not the end; it’s a new chapter. But it comes with its challenges. By embracing this change and supporting each other, we can create a workplace where everyone feels valued and understood, no matter what they’re going through.

If you’re going through menopause or perimenopause, know that you’re not alone. Reach out, seek support, and don’t be afraid to talk about what you’re experiencing. Together, we can change the conversation and make the workplace a more inclusive and supportive place for everyone.