All of you who are at a certain age and past the “monthly grief” may remember (or not) how many years of additional suffering were added during the perimenopausal phase. In my case it began in my mid thirties and destroyed a good portion of my life. I was out of control in every possible way and totally clueless as to the real reason behind my behavior.
I had lost one tube and ovary due to ectopic pregnancy that should have never occured because I had undergone tubal ligation six years prior, yet for some reason this threw me into a deep depression I couldn’t shake. I had nobody to talk to. Nobody who would understand what I was going through. Keep in mind that this was in the late 1980’s and there was no internet or google that one could search for symptoms etc.
I do believe this also threw me into perimenopause. I knew nothing about such things as my own mother was tight lipped and not even aware of her own erratic behavior during this period in her own life, though everyone else saw it. Alcohol was prevalent in my family. A daily occurence and when a child grows up in that environment what are the odds they themselves will partake?
According to Family Alcoholism Statistics, http://www.alcoholism-statistics.com/family-statistics/ The odds are against us. 43% of the population has been exposed to alcoholism in the family, or grew up with or married an alcoholic. Click the link above to read these for yourself. Isn’t it nice to have this information at your fingertips? Technology is good for some things. Too bad it wasn’t around back in the day, yet I wonder sometimes…I’ll save that for a different discussion.
It wasn’t until I reached the age of 44 and had started seeing a mental health professional who ran specific blood tests did I discover that my body lacked in essential vitamins and minerals. Vitamin D was a big one. My levels were so low that she immediately put me on a 10,000 IU daily regime.
I have never been one to visit a primary physician on a regular basis or perhaps they would have found my deficiencies much sooner. Regardless, within a week I could really tell a difference. My moods were beginning to level out.( I was at first under the impression that I was suffering from BiPolar disorder and that is why I decided to visit a mental health clinic).
A year later, I woke up one morning recalling a dream I had. (This is very true) In my dream I went to the refrigerator and opened the door. Looking inside I said: “Out of eggs” and shut the door. I kind of chuckled at this dream, and later on would discover its significance. I had entered menopause. Months went by with no cycle. I knew pregnancy wasn’t possible. For one, you need to have sex and I am known as the Nun in my household.
Once those monthly cycles ended a great weight was lifted off me in many ways. My story is one I hope will enlighten others. Vitamin/mineral deficiencies can have a great impact on mental health, as can hormonal imbalances, Combine the two and you have a walking time bomb. Add alcohol and blow up a city block. I am happy to say I am healthier today than ever and have no misconstrued idea of needing alcohol.
Get your vitamin levels checked, especially if living in a Northern climate as I do. Lack of sunlight for long periods of time will cause Seasonal Affective Disorder, which is often treated with Vitamin D and other supplements. Visit your Dr. and discuss these things. I never would have opted for HRT (hormone replacement therapy) that is my personal choice. Find what your best options are.
Do you have menopause nightmares to share? Leave a comment. Until next time, make each and every day count for something!
Blessings,
Lisa
