Building a Support Network: The Importance of Community and Connection During Menopause

Menopause brings waves of physical, emotional, and mental changes. While each woman’s experience is unique, the journey can sometimes feel isolating as you see your identity change without being able to control it. Building a menopause community and fostering meaningful connections makes the changes more manageable and allows women to feel empowered, knowing they are not alone.

Why Having Menopausal Support Matters

Connection and community during menopause help women navigate the physical and emotional shifts that come with hormonal changes. A strong community provides a sense of belonging and reassurance that others are facing similar challenges. It provides people to talk to who know exactly what you are going through and can commiserate with you. Whether you’re dealing with menopause-related mood swings, hot flashes, or sleep disturbances, knowing you are not alone can be incredibly comforting. 

A menopause support group or community offers emotional support by talking with others who understand, which can reduce feelings of frustration and anxiety. It’s a space to learn about strategies and remedies from those who have firsthand experience. There’s also an abundance of encouragement and motivation. A supportive network can encourage healthy lifestyle choices and self-care practices.

What Does Menopause Support Look Like?

Support during menopause can take many forms, depending on personal preferences and needs. Some women benefit from structured menopause support groups, while others find comfort in one-on-one conversations with friends or family.

• Joining a Menopause Support Group: A menopause support group, whether online or in person, offers a safe space for women to share their experiences, ask questions, and receive advice. These groups may be led by healthcare professionals or could be held by organizations simply for women to support one another.
• Connecting With Friends and Family: Sometimes, a strong personal support system is just as valuable as a formal group. Open conversations with loved ones about menopause symptoms and emotional well-being can help reduce feelings of isolation.
• Seeking Professional Guidance: Healthcare providers, therapists, and wellness experts also play crucial roles in menopause support. Speaking with a professional about symptom management, lifestyle changes, or mental health can provide valuable insights and coping mechanisms.

How to Support Someone Going Through Menopause

It can be hard to see a loved one going through the difficult symptoms and effects of menopause, but it’s important to know that person’s needs. If someone close to you is going through menopause, understanding their experience and offering support can make a big difference.

• Listen and Validate: Menopause can be frustrating and exhausting. Simply listening and acknowledging someone’s feelings can be incredibly meaningful. A simple “I hear you, and I’m here for you” can go a long way. It’s best to avoid well-meaning but poorly delivered thoughts such as “it could be worse.”
• Be Patient and Understanding: Mood swings, fatigue, and other menopause symptoms can impact daily life. Hormone changes are drastic and can be difficult to navigate. Practicing patience and showing empathy can help make this transition easier for those experiencing it.
• Encourage Self-Care and Wellness Practices: Gently encourage loved ones to engage in activities that promote well-being, such as exercise, meditation, and balanced nutrition. Menopausal women have found comfort with technology like Juvent’s Micro-Impact Platform®. While each woman’s experience varies, the gentle, low-impact movement may provide comfort and enhance overall well-being. With its simple, lightweight design, it takes up practically no space. 

Don’t Deal With Menopause Alone

Menopause is a journey best navigated with support and understanding. Whether through a support group, close personal relationships, or professional guidance, fostering connections can make this life stage more manageable. It’s time for you to feel empowered and supported throughout the transition.

FDA Disclosure

In the US, the Juvent device is considered investigational for the treatment of osteoporosis or improvement/maintenance of bone mineral density and our claims have not been reviewed or cleared by the FDA to treat any disease or condition. (2) Calculated over the 20+ year expected life of a Juvent. The JUVENT® Micro-Impact Platform® is Registered as a Class I medical device for exercise and rehabilitation. JUVENT products are covered by the following issued patents, pending patents and their foreign equivalents: 6,843,776 6,884,2277,094211 7,207,954 7,207,955 7,985,191 8,114,036 11/369,611 11/486,538. Juvent, Dynamic Motion Therapy, Micro-Impact Platform, and the symbol are Registered trademarks of Regenerative Technologies Corporation.