Taking My Anxiety Seriously| Perimenopause

Todays vlog is very personal but my hope in sharing my journey is that it might help others! Too many of us suffer with a variety of medical conditions and put off getting help. This has been me too many times and I've made a promise to myself to take my wellness seriously!
•The medium checked bag from Away that I featured can be purchase here→ bit.ly/3OoJ2ez
It's an affiliate link which means you won't pay more but I do make a small commission. Thank you for supporting the channel!
To join us on Patreon, head here! / jenlefforge
And to sign up for the newsletter, head to my website! jenlefforge.com/
Want to send me snail mail?: PO Box 5054, Alpharetta, GA 30023
I hope you’ll come find me on all the other things as well! :
•Facebook→ / jenlefforgeyoutube
•Instagram→ / jenlefforge
•Website (TO SIGN UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER) → jenlefforge.com/​​
Music provided by Epidemic Sound (my FAVORITE source for licensed music - huge library and reasonable monthly rates affiliate link) www.epidemicsound.com/referra...

[@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge]

Did a little short with an update on how the meds are working! Perimenopausal and finally sleeping again! kzbin.infop4ln4qHK7XQ?feature=share

[@deannahoffman5177]

100% support to any woman to make her own health decisions! It is the height of arrogance and usually ignorance to think you know more and better about someone else's Health Care. Good luck to you!

[@robynmcfarland5800]

Sleep disturbances definitely make everything that’s going on health wise worse. Anxiety meds are nothing to be afraid of so thank you for talking about these things.

[@madelinewoodard319]

I started Peri at 38 and was lucky enough to find a certified menopausal clinician. He got me through it and with my sanity intact. Hang in there. This will pass. And seriously, being a woman is not for the weak!!!

[@GingerNinja4769]

Thank you! I am 46, and started this season of my life, i.e. perimenopause, about three years ago. Anxiety, feelings of dread, aches, sleep disruptions (3am was my I'm awake hour), pins and needles in my hands, flushing, and morning stomach woozy. I am on meds for the anxiety, and am working with my OBGYN in consideration of HRT, and recently discovered I am significantly vitamin D deficient. This is more than likely adding to the anxiety, aches and pains... Godspeed on your journey. Thank you again for putting this crucial information out into the world. Cheers!

[@snowps1]

Yes! I think every woman going through this wakes up at 3am every morning.

[@madisona7140]

I’ve struggled with anxiety most of my life (hello childhood traumas) and I suffered through the worst of it when I was post partum with my son. It’s so hard to struggle with that everyday feeling of everything is heavy, unsafe, etc. sending love and hugs and thank you for your vulnerability❤️

[@susans.6536]

I think what convinced my doctor to put me on HRT was when I told her the distractibility and lack of focus had caused me to run a red light…twice. So to avoid killing or injuring myself or someone else, she gave me a prescription. Funny that all my other symptoms, that made my life miserable, didn’t seem to matter. You shouldn’t have to be miserable!! I’m glad you’re talking about menopause so openly, it’s never discussed, and I remember how scary it was when I started going through it. Education is important, keep talking, it’s a great public service. 😃

[@kendrakratzwald9495]

I went through menopause at 38… the anxiety is very real… I’m so glad I’m on a good medical regimen now!

[@anatino]

What do you take? I’m on progesterone cream for a week and still having bad anxiety. I don’t know what to do anymore.

[@stacylgh]

I'm 45 and started Perimenopause early. It's been an experience. Thank you for talking openly because I am so angry that this is just disregarded as nothing! I was told for 2 years that it wasn't possible before they finally tested my hormones and said "Wow you're definitely far into it" 🤬 My Pcp told me some vitamin supplements that help some but my female gyno (best I've found after trying 3 others) won't put me on hrt or anything to help. I was already on anxiety meds and I'm now looking for a therapist because this is not The Way! I got a cronic illness Fall 2020 after cataract surgery so that factors in as well with problems getting blamed on anything other than the doctor I'm talking to. I do love my Primary doctor but these problems aren't in her field.

[@rachelspollett3930]

I haven’t reached that phase of my life yet, so I don’t have a story of my own to share, but I’m so grateful to you for sharing your story with us. ❤❤❤

[@let_there_be_flowers]

Thank you for talking about this...no one does. I really didn't associate my anxiety with perimenopause, but it makes sense. I need to make an appointment, but I hope my doctor will listen.

[@theplussizecostumer]

Hopefully your doctor is a woman that totally understands menopausal issues. I wish you the very best luck.

[@donnabaardsen5372]

If a doctor doesn't listen, leave.

[@Frank-in-PalmSprings]

Clutching my pearls here Jen! 🤣 So proud of your bravery in handling concerns head-on! Many would just push it aside and say it’ll go away… good for you! And I loved how you subtly worked in the push for voting empowerment. ❤ Have a great trip!

[@mariadexter9425]

You are a hoot! I started menopause when I was 40 after many years of infertility-then started the sleep problems and anxiety I had my entire life. About 10 years ago, I went to the GP and finally told him about my sleep issues and he started me on Lexapro low dose. This has made a huge difference in my life! My anxiety has decreased tremendously. I suffered for so many years telling myself I didn’t need to take a pill. Please listen to your body and know there are meds that will help you. I am now 64 and retired and feeling great. I sometimes still do have sleeping issues but not nearly like in the past.

[@eolauryn4]

I’m 42, hashimoto and have a multimodal team of care to address all my issues. My sleep, digestion, focus, and life have shifted in the wildest way. I need everything onboard. I need good nutrition, Hydration, work life balance, increased self care, informing family friends of my needs without regret. I need a functional med provider, prescriber and PCP and endo. I swear it’s a wild ride. We got you Jenn, vent away and share all the things. And I’m a mental health therapist. We are all human and trying to do this thing called life ❤

[@dawnturpin]

Your flamingo toiletry bag! I'm obsessed with flamingoes so that's fantastic. So, the perimenopause anxiety is NO JOKE. I found myself randomly frozen and barely able to breath from it. Thankfully it didn't last long for me, but then the hot flashes started. They were strong and coming on every 20 minutes, no lie. I would sit in depositions and watch the clock and know one would be coming. I couldn't take it anymore and did go on bioidentical hormone replacement until recently. I feel like my migraines were subsiding BEFORE I went on the HRT, but they started coming back really, really bad, so I just a few months ago dropped the HRT. The hot flashes are back, but not as bad, so they're manageable, and my migraines also seem to be better. And yes, I don't sleep anymore unless I take something. It seems to be a evolving journey. Glad for you to have taken your first steps!

[@melissam5669]

Thank you for this so much. I’ve always struggled with anxiety but it feels worse now. I’m a couple years older than you. I mentioned it to my GP and she put in a note/order for me to find counseling which I haven’t made time to do. Your words were a good reminder to prioritize me.

[@laurentracy6282]

I'm in my 30s and decided to take control of my health in the past couple of years. Going on medication for my anxiety and ADHD was the best thing I have ever done for myself. The difference in how I feel is night and day. I only wish I did this two decades ago.

[@meursaultscourtroom8886]

Anxiety can be a beast. I've suffered with it as well. To anyone watching this video please take the advice to visit your doctor. Do not let embarrassment or anything else stop you. There is help out there.

[@karynbixby9595]

You are amazing! As a 60 year old woman that has been thru much of this I am grateful to you for talking about it and helping other women. And yes, vote.

[@vickidills6522]

It's so important to advocate for your health and to do what is right for you. Have a wonderful vacation!

[@TheresaD235]

Thank you for sharing Jen!! I appreciate your channel so much!

[@chestersmum4158]

57 yrs old agree 100% we need to talk about and share our experiences with peri/ menopause . I too had huge increase in anxiety it’s a vicious circle the more I had sleepless nights the worse anxiety became. I hope you find some relief from your symptoms. Thank you for talking about this subject .

[@marcussaintly-ox8ue]

I wish you nothing but the best - many blessings and be well!

[@trishsp3160]

Just signed up for your newsletter! I don't know how I missed that you have one. Loved this vlog and your honesty. Have a great time on vacation.

[@heidiwilson5272]

I love that you made this video on this specific topic! It is so important to share! Enjoy your vacation!

[@pearlburkett7394]

Safe travels on your vacation! Enjoy your time off. We love you. Thank you for what you do :). Truly! And thanks for sharing you ☺️

[@allisonhorton330]

You are such an inspiration, Jen. Best to you and to sweet Sadie!

[@mindymoats5152]

Progesterone is awesome! Been taking it for 5 years. Has improved my sleep, mood and severely reduced hot flashes. Good luck!

[@TheZen2580]

I’m 44 and recently started experiencing the perimenopause symptoms. The waking up at 2am, the cold night sweats, feeling like crying all the time and full of anxiety and feeling overwhelmed. I’m going to make an appointment with my doctor. Glad I found this video and know I’m not going crazy and other women are going thru this too. ❤

[@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge]

I'm so happy I could help!! Good luck - we are in this together!

[@MariahsWholeNewWorld]

Have fun on (foreal) vacation Jen! Haha .Appreciate your transparency on your health - it’s so important to do what is best for us. Also I have that same”home” mug! I love it hehe.

[@thelegaultlife3096]

I went into surgical menopause when I had a total hysterectomy at age 37, my ovaries came out as they were the guys causing most of my problems. So yeahhhh the dryness, omg makes me crazy, and the sleep......ugh makes me crazy, I legit solve all the worlds problems at like 3am every day lol. I'm 55 now so 18 years of menopause now and nope hasn't gotten any better. I have tried hormones and for me, it hasn't made a difference but for many it does. For vaginal dryness they do have hormone creams you insert that work failrly well but I honestly am not the best at consistenly using it. ALl I can say is YOU ARE NOT ALONE!!! You do you Jenn, 100% every woman's menopause journey is different. You gotta figure out what works best for you. I'm 18yrs in and still haven't figured out what works, its an ever changing thing. I mean cmon people, we birthed the children, why can't the men be the ones that have menopause and give us a break!!! lol

[@marisamarino3671]

Have a wonderful vacation Jen!! Thank you for sharing your experience with anxiety and hope your experience with the meds is a good one. Can you keep us posted? Happy Vacay!!

[@jessicasplans6848]

First time watching this video, and I am just thankful for someone being open enough to talk about women’s health as we are moving or out of the baby stage…. Aka menopause/ peri menopause. There is not enough conversations about it. A ton of info about baby/ family stage but that’s it.

[@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge]

It’s true we absolutely don’t talk about it enough! Thank you for your kind words!

[@SeemaPAmir]

Such a timely video, I am seeing my doctor this week about peri menopause and just getting everything checked and in order. Hope you are having an amazing relaxing vacation!

[@reneegrubber1166]

I have all of the same symptoms, but my Dr just brushes everything off as "normal for my age" so I'm looking for a new one!!! I'm 55 and tired of Dr's around here just glossing over things. Feeling like I'm out of sync with my own mind/body and not knowing how/if I can fix it just causes more anxiety for me! Good luck on your journey with your heath and have a fantastic vacation!!!

[@fionaolson7389]

Enjoy your vacation. It's good to get a break from everyday routine once in a while. The older I get the more of these breaks I take. Looking forward to your newsletters. Take care ❤

[@lauracampbell7589]

Hi Jen, thanks so much for sharing! I have struggled with hormonal imbalances since I was 18. I appreciate your vulnerability and that you press on! You keep moving and you take it one step at a time. Appreciate you! ❤

[@lisasproul8027]

I love these videos. Showing us how you are prioritizing your health while being very busy is very helpful.

[@kimberlymavrakos2661]

Hearing about your anxiety helped me realize I had it too. It has gotten better. I sympathize with you and hope your situation improves soon. I like your physician’s approach. Also, regular voter here.

[@Natalie_11188]

Sorry you’ve been suffering Jen. Good you are on the road to better. I didn’t know your husband surfed! It looks so hard, I am impressed. Hope you enjoyed your vacation.

[@debbiekolthof6496]

100% support you!! My anxiety has been medically controlled and it was the best decision for me. You are your best health advocate. Enjoy your vacation!❤

[@maureenomalley4361]

Congratulations for taking control of your anxiety! Whatever you need to do is going to be good for you. Keep an open mind and continue to discuss your issues with your doctor. FYI, I genuinely enjoy your videos!🎉

[@jamwi5233]

That's so nice that the pharmacist was encouraging about the medication - I am sure that was good to hear that she had seen success with it! Thank you for sharing your journey! And can't wait to see the packing videos for Europe - please share all your info - we are taking our 16 & 13 year old for the first time (for all of us) to England and France in early July so I need all the advice I can get! :)

[@nancyp2992]

I'm 82, have fun and enjoy your life - you are great young lady.

[@juliedi2]

Jen…I am literally suffering with the same miserable symptoms…disturbed sleep and increased anxiety. And of course disturbed sleep makes the anxiety worse. I am intrigued that you have heard that the progesterone can make a big difference with sleep. My only concern with taking hormone replacement would be weight gain. I will also be making an appointment with my primary care. I couldn’t get my annual gynecologist appointment until October!

[@lynnhardy2221]

Another symptom to be aware of is extremely heavy periods sometimes with nausea and vomiting.

[@marinare]

Thank you so much for sharing your process regarding this issue, it is so helpful!! i LOLed at "im a hard stick" cuz I am too and had blood drawn this morning and the nurse asked me which arm they usually use and I said "they usually go back and forth a couple times, then tell me that i have tiny veins, then they get the butterfly needle..." great video as usual!

[@irisandu2]

Good job. You do you. Love that you’re taking good care of you.

[@loridaou2897]

Thank you again. Once again you e delivered real talk about middle year aging. I enjoy the parenting content of parenting tweens, teens and adults and these female hormonal shifting years. The silence is real. The honest talk is wonderful for health, biological female health, and mental health. You are appreciated.

[@amymcelgunn2720]

Jen, I love your channel. I am the same age and really relate to your struggle. I have to say what ever you are doing, your skin looks beautiful and glowing. Hugs Jen and please keep talking about your journey it’s such a help for many women.

[@thecleaningteacher638]

I’ve just found your channel in the last two weeks, and you are a gem! I’ve found that when I don’t sleep properly due to perimenopause, my anxiety really ramps up. I am on Divigel and progesterone-that has helped me a ton.

[@GentryE]

Hi Jen, I love both of your channels! I started watching the first one when you were taking your gap year and have just been hooked! I am living vicariously through you (teacher work schedule makes travel a little tighter when things are affordable/less crowded and the nest is not QUITE empty yet)--so you are my inspiration. I wanted to share 2 stories--regarding your doggie, we just put our 14 years young Golden on arthritis meds (truly had taken him in for a "quality of life assessment" he was was doing so poorly and prepared to walk out with an empty leash), and 2 months later he is doing AMAZING! He beats his younger "brother" , our Collie, up each day now and looks so proud of himself. Hopefully your sweet girl will feel better soon. For peri-menopause, I'm 49 and just started taking HRT about 2 years ago. I did a lot of research and was started on estrogen first (I use a patch because I want something that travels through my body and doesn't put stress on my liver) and it made a lot of improvements for me. I had never struggled with mental health issues and was experiencing anxiety, I had joint pain (my gen practitioner felt it was arthritis and I was trying to put off meds for that as long as I could since they are hard on your kidneys long term), heart palpitations (I was seriously worried and seeing a cardiologist), and complete dryness making intimacy very painful. I went primarily for the dryness--and I was shocked to discover that taking estrogen (I take a bioidentical one personally) helped all these other symptoms (joint pain, heart palpitations, and for me the anxiety) as well. The one thing it did not help with was sleep. I could fall asleep but would wake up at 3AM and couldn't get back to sleep...I ended up seeing a new doc (mine was on vacation) last check in and she suggested progesterone....OMG...amazing...it is the magic pill for me. Now I fall right asleep and STAY asleep. Good luck to you--and I hope it is the pixie dust for you that it has been for me. The one I am taking is from a compounded pharmacy, they ship it to me from Oregon, I've been told this is more effective than the synthetic (although this one is not covered by insurance and synthetic is), but I have never tried the other and I love the sleep so much, I'm just sticking to this! I agree with others vitamin D is huge too--I started feeling anxious again in December, thought my Estrogen had stopped working--and got tested and sure enough was just low on D. I supplement now. Good luck, and PLEASE keep talking, and encouraging others to talk, about menopause, I feel like our generation is doing such a better job at that than previous ones where it was just taboo. I keep learning more and more each day..!

[@mariar3597]

So glad you are making your whole health a priority. I am a few years ahead of you and also have Hashimotos which affects my gut and that affects anxiety. Not easy but it can be managed with caring health practitioners and continuous self care. Vacations are a very important Rx. Enjoy 👏💗🙏

[@sarairvine9622]

I’m a big fan of the meds I started five years ago! Now I’m also dealing with the 3am wake-up and morning nausea. Time to book an appointment, thanks for the inspiration!

[@LibraryAngel]

I was on medication for psychological trauma related issues. It messed with me more that it helped. I went to workbooks and helpful projects - and now if I start feeling that way I redo a certain page / and a few activities - truly take a mental health day - and go back to daily living when I’m feeling in control and calm.

[@RitaVernoy]

Thank you! I have PTSD from things that happened when I lived in Venezuela. It’s no fun! Anxiety is a beast and I decided to go on meds and it gave me my life back😊 So glad you are doing what feels right for you!😊

[@DsnyLuv]

Thank you for doing this. I have experience all the symptoms you and others have expressed. The most terrifying was waking up at 2:00 am thinking it was anxiety or panics attacks but after tests and me educating myself it turned out it was Hormones. Perimenopause was driving me crazy. The most scary and the one people do not bring up or confuse with anxiety is Heart PALPITATIONS. I Thought I was having a heart attack my primary wanted to diagnose me with anxiety panic attacks but sent me to cardiologist. Cardiologist did Eco, heart monitor and my heart is healthy and strong. He was the first to tell me; it’s hormones. Then Oprah started talking how heart palpitations is another thing she experienced. So went to OBGYN and sure enough. Now I am in treatment, exercising, dieting and medications and I sleep well, my heart is fine:, no more palpitations. I feel like another woman 😊 Also in YT Menopause Taylor was a wonderful resource for information. I am thankful and pray 🙏🏼 to survive this season of my life. I see you as one of those woman that is graceful and fit. Love your videos.

[@MM-dx1re]

I can so relate to your story. Almost exact to a T as what I am struggling with now.

[@user-sw1ts6re1z]

I was going to mention Oprah Daily did a great episode on peri menopause/menopause.

[@nurseloco2003]

Thank you for sharing this. I am in my late 40s, and decided this is the year to really focus on my mental health. I don’t know why I waited so long. Ugh. But - bygones. I hope your regimen works really well for you.

[@barbarakhan5275]

I am loving your channel. You are so authentic. I am a travel advisor and your travel advice is spot on. Perimenopause kicked my ass! I am out the other side. No anxiety, but horrible sleep, hot flashes, and feeling on edge. Husband thought I was a mean monster. Dryness like I’ve never experienced in my life. I had oily skin my whole life, so it was like relearning my skincare all over again. I have tried estrogen cream, but it’s messy, so I might check options. So glad I found your channel.

[@cocorunny6597]

Hugs, post menopausal. Went through similar, was on medication that really helped me get over that hump. Now I’m over the menopause rainbow and 100% feel better. So glad you consulted your Dr, which I had gone earlier in the process. I suffered progressively for a few years before I sought help.

[@CyndiAKADisneyqueen]

Started this process a few years ago. Recently I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety. Just kind of being told by my therapist what was going on seemed to help. So glad I took the time to start therapy, because it’s definitely helping. Praying the meds work for you! 🙏🏽 And hope your are having a great trip!!

[@DWhittakernew]

I also went through a endometrial ablation almost 3 years ago. I do not have those same symptoms, but I hope you start feeling more yourself. You do you. No one lives in your body, so it should just be you making decisions about your body. Doctors are great at recommendation, but ultimately it's up to you, and no one else concern.

[@makeupbyjessw]

Im so happy you're getting help and medication ❤

[@missmissy2490]

Sending you lots of support. Thank you for sharing on this important topic.

[@betsyann1000]

My obgyn was not able to do much for me…but hormone clinic has been life changing! You deserve the best quality of life you can get. And why is none of this covered by insurance???

[@carlaslb]

Menopause is such a joy Happy that you are doing what’s best for you and that’s what’s important. For me it has been the insomnia and the lack of patience…what a combo 😂 My family has been lovingly warned to stay away 😂

[@sarasharpe6952]

Thanks for your honesty and vulnerability ❤️. Anxiety is hard! So is peri menopause❤️😂❤️. I’m glad your taking care of you!

[@denisepadilladefont773]

Thank you for this Jen. I love your honesty and advocacy for women so damn much. hope you had a restorative vacation 💕

[@denisepadilladefont773]

….written during a hot flash 🔥

[@annaburch3200]

Just going through a lot of doctor changes and medication shifts, myself. It's driving me a bit crazy. My med study for my kidneys suddenly stopped last week (they just pulled the study - no warning - and it was VERY upsetting!) and my new GP wants me off my birth control I've been on for 18 years and fussed at me, even though I was unaware it was harmful at 49 - so I'm not liking the repertoire with new Dr and I may be searching . . . AGAIN! 🙄 And the psychologist I've seen for my anxiety for 15 years is retiring and guess what? That's causing me anxiety, right when I'm already having anxiety about my one and only kiddo leaving for college! I feel like a mess. So, watching your videos (here and on your travel channel) helps me tremendously. Thank you for bringing comfort and JOY into my life. Comfort and JOY - maybe you feel like Christmas and that's why I like you. 😊

[@gaillittle1700]

The anxiety is real, I confess that I lost a job because of it, not a good one but.... My regular doctor and I had a decision about it. Anxiety meds is working and I notice when I am not taking it.. I hope your on the right path with what you and your doctor discussed and it helps you. Have a Fantastic relaxing safe trip.

[@malloryconnor4550]

Thanks for the video. Have a wonderful trip. Also I hope you got a good nights sleep.

[@erinj1360]

Know you are not alone in going through any of this, but your process is unique to you. (aka--been there, done that) Hugs and warm thoughts to you---and your menagerie!

[@kaylaandmarkalan]

So glad that you are addressing this and talking about it!!! Hopefully it help you! Loling at your dogs eating celery.

[@lorigrant8156]

I also had an endometrial ablation in 2014 to stop my super heavy and painful periods. The GYNO who performed the surgery said it was a success and I haven’t had a period since. The downside is you’re never really sure when you’ve reached full menopause. My hormones have been tested but the results fluctuate so even now at 58 I am still not sure if I’ve reached menopause yet. I had terrible anxiety and panic disorder that began shortly after my early retirement from teaching and the ablation surgery. Because my hormones didn’t show that I was a candidate for hormone therapy I went with conventional antidepressants/anti-anxiety medications as well as talk therapy. They truly gave me my life back.

[@edwinaburke6871]

Brilliant. Wish I’d known about perimenopause and been so open when I was younger. Have a great time. Xx

[@tsteur]

100% I went on medicine last year and it was a life saver…excited about my upcoming hysterectomy that I advocated for.

[@bethr7726]

I had a hysterectomy at 39 ( had no money at the time for HRT ) so not sure if /when I peri menopause began but believe I am through the worst of the menopause symptoms. Although I never sleep! I just told my PCP yesterday that I am feeling very anxious, all the time, but neither he nor I connected it to menopause!! He didn’t even suggest a med for me ! I had been contemplating finding a female that specializes in this stage of life ( now 63) and after reading these comments I am going to pursue a different physician, mine is retiring at the end of the year do the timing is right ! Thank you for talking about this, no one really does and that’s a shame. Thanks again !

[@annajohnson4761]

Jen, yes yes! 😍 I'm so glad I checked with my OBGYN when my body got weird on me last year. Something *was* wrong and it *was* fixable and WOW am I glad I didn't chalk it up to just an aging thing.

[@susanritzenthaler4502]

Anxiety is no joke. My husband would like to bound and gag me. You are so brave. Thank you soooo much for sharing.

[@tanie2946]

I feel you. I'm actually going through it right now. I had to have an emergency full hysterectomy in March. I came WAY too close to dying in January and March. So, I'm glad that I'm no longer in danger of bleeding to death. And my OBGYN gave me the choice in April at my follow up to take medication or not because I was already feeling depression and anxiety creeping up on me. Well, because of my mental state (it got SIGNIFICANTLY worse) and some physical problems, I've been on medication for a few days now and I'm already starting to feel a little better. Hang in there, as will I. My heart goes out to you and I'm wishing you the best. Have fun on your trip.

[@nicoleshinn8991]

Jenn. Thanks so much for talking about this. I am currently dealing with making similar decisions as I walk this journey for myself. Very interested in how this goes for you.

[@pattylombardo8671]

Everyone deserves a vacation vacation! Have a relaxing time!!

[@melindayoung369]

"She didn't say anything about tequila." I snort laughed. I love how you embrace life's challenges with humor, friend. Adore you! Hoping your received all the rest and worry-free experiences you deserve!

[@ellenryan8752]

Have a really nice break. There is light at the end of the menopause cycles.

[@sambailie4773]

God bless you. We will get there xx

[@juliasherwin327]

Jen I feel your pain, I have been really suffering with the peri menopause for about 10 years now, things have been really bad, anxiety, mood swings, joint pain, broken sleep, weight gain, skin problems, gynaecology problems, hot flushes, exhaustion you name it and I have that menopause symptom. 2 weeks ago I couldn't take any more and I asked my Doctor to prescribe me some HRT patches its early days but I really hope they give me some relief soon. I hope the medication you have chosen helps you soon, have a great holiday and please let us know how you are getting on. Much love from the UK xxx

[@donnabaardsen5372]

Jen, I very suddenly began having anxiety, and panic attacks while pregnant years ago. Clueless as to why. So during an ER visit sometime later, not for that reason, a nurse made an offhand comment; that such attacks very often tie to Hashimotos Thyroiditis! That, and sleep apnea, both of which I have. Menopause factors in, too. Who knew? Anyway, treatment for both did the trick. Anxiety is the pits. There's help, whatever the cause. Smart people get that help😊❤

[@jenimeyer6992]

You're Awesome 😊! I love you. You know your body. You do you especially if your quality of life is starting to have more thumbs down days. Take care and sending vibes of health, peace, and happiness.

[@courtneyferguson2568]

I have the large away bag. We used it for Disney when our two girls wore princess dresses at Disney. Haven’t used it since- it’s massive!

[@JenniferKing1001]

I'm 47 and have been dealing with all these symptoms for a couple of years now. Big hugs and solidarity. (Also, I'm actively watching the video, so Idk if you discussed this -- but Vitamin D deficiency is a huge issue in perimenopause/menopause. A good chunk of my most intense symptoms have been exacerbated by low Vit D levels.)

[@chrissy8883]

❤️Good for you!🤗Totally agree, yes I’m registered to vote❤️It gets better, hang in there ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@jeanpowers877]

Hope you are having an amazing time at the beach 🏖️

[@akhkmh]

Just went through this last summer. Irrational anxiety is very hard. Just know that you’ll get through it. I used anti-anxiety meds occasionally in the evenings because of the bad night anxiety and I slept better.

[@kerrywolf8670]

Thanks!

[@joannewilliams41]

Sending lots of love 💖 thank you for talking about this 💖💖💖💖xxxx

[@joannewilliams41]

I am on HRT and it’s been a journey xxxxx

[@thebritishbookworm]

Good for you for being so open about this Jen. It's madness to me that billions of women experience this (often after decades of difficult menstrual periods too!) and so few talk about it. Women shouldn't have to live like this just because it's a 'fact of life.' I'm pleased your OBGYN took your concerns seriously as that can make all the difference.

[@Benasboysandgirl]

I can’t believe I missed this one! May was pretty insane for me. All good, just busy! This is so my like right now minus the dogs and the motorcycle. Thanks for giving me impetus to do something about it! (And not just lie awake from 1:30-3:30 and stress about it.)

[@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge]

Yeah, now that I'm on two different meds (the progesterone and Equelle which is over the counter) I am FINALLY sleeping again and I'm so happy!

[@CyberMercy]

knowing what my Mom went thru initially on HRT I started looking into Mitigation/Management measure both Chemical & "Natural" that did not involve HRT. but that is what is right for my body. I have no opion on what will work for other women. Except Voting. You should Always VOTE!

[@annapower9799]

Good for you! Love your transparency and your good human values. Sadly, both are lacking in our society these days! Take care of YOU!

[@cheacatt1383]

Thank you for sharing… my anxiety is through the roof and I need to do something about it … I wake up every night at 3 am and then fall back asleep around 5 and then sleep until 7 and wake up and freak out trying to leave for work … I’m so burnt out with everything