Menopause: The Overlooked Phase of Women’s Health
Menopause is a significant life transition that affects every woman differently. Yet, despite its profound impact, this phase is often overlooked in discussions of women’s health. Many women face this journey feeling unsupported and misunderstood, not only by society but also within healthcare systems.
At Helps Counselling, we’ve worked with women navigating menopause and have seen firsthand how this time of life can be both challenging and transformative. It’s why we’re passionate about supporting midlife women. The HER-BC study sheds new light on the needs of women in British Columbia, and we’re proud to share its findings and how they align with our approach to counselling.
What Is the HER-BC Study?
The HER-BC (Health, Empowerment, and Research for British Columbia) study is a landmark research initiative designed to explore the health experiences and challenges faced by midlife women in BC. Conducted by experts in women’s health, this study highlights the physical, emotional, and social impacts of menopause while advocating for improved healthcare support.
Some key findings from the HER-BC study include:
- Physical Health Challenges: Women report experiencing disruptive symptoms like hot flashes, fatigue, joint pain, and sleep disturbances.
- Mental and Emotional Health Struggles: Feelings of anxiety, mood swings, and even depression are prevalent, yet they are often misunderstood or dismissed.
- Systemic Healthcare Gaps: Many participants expressed frustration with the lack of specialized care for menopause, with few resources or consistent information available.
By amplifying women’s voices, the HER-BC study underscores the urgent need for tailored healthcare and more accessible resources. For more details, you can read the HER-BC study here.
Challenges Faced by Midlife Women
Health Symptoms: Menopause can bring physical discomfort, disrupted sleep, and emotional strain. Many women describe feeling like their bodies are betraying them, which can impact their self-esteem and relationships.
Healthcare Gaps: The HER-BC study reveals that menopause health issues are often under-diagnosed or treated with a one-size-fits-all approach. Many women feel dismissed when seeking help, leaving them to navigate this complex phase alone.
Additionally, a review published in The Lancet emphasizes that menopause-related healthcare is often underfunded and underprioritized globally, despite its significant impact on women's overall health (The Lancet).
How Counselling Can Help
At Helps Counselling, we specialize in supporting women through life transitions like menopause. Here’s how counselling aligns with the HER-BC study’s findings and provides vital support:
- Emotional Relief: Counselling offers a safe space to process feelings of frustration, sadness, or anxiety.
- Practical Strategies: We help clients manage symptoms like disrupted sleep or mood swings with evidence-based approaches.
- Empowerment: Understanding and validating your experience can restore a sense of control during menopause.
Our approach is supported by findings from the North American Menopause Society, which highlights the importance of personalized care in managing menopause symptoms effectively (North American Menopause Society).
Making Counselling Accessible for Midlife Women
We believe every woman should have access to the care and support they need. That’s why we’re proud to accept Pacific Blue Cross, which helps cover counselling for menopause-related challenges. This makes accessing help easier and more affordable.
Whether you’re looking to manage hot flashes, improve your sleep, or work through the emotional shifts of menopause, we’re here to support you.
Take the Next Step
If you’re navigating the challenges of menopause, you don’t have to do it alone. Schedule a consultation today to learn how counselling can support your health and well-being. Together, we’ll help you embrace this phase of life with confidence and resilience.
