Menopause Isn’t Madness: Understanding the Emotional Rollercoaster (and Why You’re Not Alone)

If you’ve ever felt like you’re losing your mind during menopause, you’re not imagining it—and you’re definitely not alone. For many women, menopause brings more than hot flushes and night sweats. It can feel like an emotional rollercoaster you never signed up for. One moment you’re calm, the next you’re in tears, or snapping at someone you love for no reason.

The truth is simple: you are not going crazy. Your body is going through one of the biggest hormonal shifts of your life. And while it can feel overwhelming, it’s a completely normal part of the journey.

Why Menopause Affects Your Emotions

Menopause is driven by hormonal changes—especially the drop in oestrogen and progesterone. These hormones don’t just affect your cycle; they also play a big role in regulating mood, sleep, memory, and even how your skin looks and feels.

When levels fluctuate, so does everything else. That’s why symptoms like:

• Mood Swings
• Anxiety or irritability
• Low energy
• Forgetfulness or “brain fog”
• Feeling less like yourself

… often show up alongside physical changes like hot flushes, weight shifts, or dry skin.

It’s not all in your head—it’s happening in your body. And knowing that can be the first step toward feeling more in control.

You’re Not Alone in This

One of the hardest parts of menopause is how isolating it can feel. For decades, menopause was rarely spoken about openly. Many women were left to silently manage their symptoms, feeling like nobody understood.

But the tide is turning. More and more women are sharing their experiences, breaking the taboo, and supporting each other. The truth is: millions of women are walking this path with you, right now.

Here in New Zealand and around the world, women are building communities, speaking out, and saying the same thing you may be thinking: “I want to feel like myself again.”

Practical Ways to Support Yourself

While every journey is unique, there are steps you can take to make the transition easier:

Talk about it. Whether it’s with friends, family, or a menopause support group, sharing what you’re going through helps ease the load.

Look after your body. Prioritise sleep, gentle movement, and balanced nutrition. These simple things can have a big impact on your mood.

Practice self-care. Whether it’s skincare rituals, mindfulness, or a walk outside, small daily moments of care remind you that you matter.

Seek professional help if needed. From GPs to menopause specialists, there are options and treatments that can support your health and wellbeing.

The Skin Connection

Alongside emotional changes, many women notice shifts in their skin—dryness, dullness, or sensitivity. Just like your mood, your skin is influenced by hormonal changes. It’s another reminder that your body is working hard to adjust.

At Vivéa, we believe skincare is more than surface deep—it’s part of how you care for yourself during this transformational time. Gentle, nourishing formulas can give your skin (and your confidence) the support it needs.

A Journey, Not a Destination

Menopause is not the end of your story—it’s the start of a new chapter. Yes, it comes with challenges, but it also offers a chance to slow down, reflect, and prioritise yourself in ways you may not have before. So the next time you feel overwhelmed, remind yourself:

You are not going crazy.
You are not alone.
ou are heard, and there is help.

Vivéa is here to stand with you—through the rollercoaster moments and the calm ones—to remind you that your journey is valid, your feelings are real, and your strength is extraordinary.