Menopause and Self-Esteem

Poor Self-Image

For some women the experience of menopause creates a set of challenges that has a negative impact on their self-esteem - both physically and psychologically. For many women, the fact that they are no longer fertile strikes a blow to their sense of womanhood and sensuality. Many associate menopause with middle age and lack of vitality and youth, making another dent in their self-image. Menopause symptoms such as weight gain, hair loss, and dry skin perpetuate this downward spiral and pack a powerful punch against a woman's sense of worth and self-acceptance.

Ways to Improve Self-Esteem During Menopause

In order to get through menopause with one's self-esteem and sense of self-value intact, there are a number of things women can do as they approach menopause.

  1. Eating Healthfully: Eating a healthy diet can help keep women's weight in check, thus preventing weight gain commonly associated with menopause and low self-image. Proper nutrition can also offset other troubling symptoms of menopause such as mood swings and insomnia. The experts recommend eating a low-fat diet with plenty of whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
  2. Positive Outlook: The way in which women approach menopause psychologically can make all the difference in the world. Maintaining a positive outlook towards this natural stage of life and womanhood is one of the keys to emerging with one's self-esteem intact. Try to view menopause an exciting opportunity to enhance or create new possibilities in your life, a time to reevaluate what is important to you, or simply a time to reflect upon your accomplishments until this point.
  3. Seek Social Support: Talking to other women who are going through menopause is a terrific source of empowerment. Sharing your experiences with other women who can identify with and relate to you can do wonders for a woman's self-esteem, and knowing that 'you are not alone' is greatly comforting.
  4. Exercise: Numerous studies have shown that physical exercise enhances self-confidence and self-image in menopausal women. Furthermore, exercise will improve the functioning of your internal organs and keep your outer body looking great!
  5. Self-Care: It is okay to pamper yourself during this emotionally and physically challenging time of life! If you are stressed, uncomfortable, or depressed about menopause, schedule in time for some daily TLC: Read a good book, have a bubble bath, talk to a good friend, see a movie, practice yoga and deep breathing - simply do things that are non-stressful and that you enjoy.

All of things can help women keep their self-esteem up when menopause is causing their mood and self-esteem to swing down.

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