Menopause & the Holidays: 8 Ways to Keep Your Cool

Holidays are *supposed to be* magical, but oftentimes they’re riddled with stress, anxiety, and even sadness, especially for women, who are often the ones responsible for making all that magic happen. But now–on top of that–you’re dealing with the many symptoms of menopause, including hot flashes, night sweats, irritability, and general low-tolerance-for-BS-ness. So how do you get through the holiday season without having a meltdown or freaking out? 

We have some ideas… 

First, our all-year-long advice for coping with stress and anxiety during menopause:

Sleep more. Try waking up and going to bed at the same time every day. 

Skip alcohol & caffeine. Yes, your two faves can definitely contribute to more stress & anxiety. 

Stress less. LOL. At least try. And also carve out time for yourself to just relax.   

Eat more fruits and vegetables. Yep, they’re even available during the holidays.

Get treated. Balancing your hormones with MHT is a scientifically proven way to deal with the symptoms of menopause, including increased stress and anxiety. 

And now, four unapologetic ways to deal with menopause and the holidays, for when you’re just straight up NOT in the mood

Be the guest, not the host 

Contrary to popular belief, you do not have to be the hostess with the mostess. If you’re already worried about dealing with your hormones this season, have someone else host Christmas dinner or the New Year’s Eve party. And if you are hosting, take it easy on yourself– buy prepared foods, and ask your guests to bring side dishes, wine, dessert. People love feeling like they’re helping!

Cancel your “Superwoman subscription” 

Related to the above, you do not need to do it all. So, repeat after us: I am not Superwoman, and I don’t want to be. I can do what I can do. And that is all.

And while this might be a big change to the people in your life (who are always used to you carrying the load) this is also an opportune time to talk menopause with your crew. Your body is changing. Your outlook is changing. It’s perfectly normal, and getting those close to you on board, even just a little, can make you feel less alone.

If you’re not feeling it, don’t do it 

Even if it’s last-minute. A sure-fire way to blow up “unprovoked” is to force yourself to do something you really didn’t want to do in the first place. If going to the office party or decorating the house inside and out is not high on your priority list, then skip it. And, to that point, “No” is a complete sentence. It doesn’t need further explanation—unless you want it to. 

And finally (again, we say) start menopausal hormone therapy! 

The holidays are way less daunting when you know your hormones are balanced with the right menopause treatment. You are not alone, and you don’t have to suffer through menopause symptoms during the holiday season, or any other time of the year. 

You deserve to feel fantastic. 

Happy Holidays from all of us at Alloy!