Let's face it, we're all going to get older even though -- in our heads -- we're just young kids with our exciting life ahead. Now, even though we're may not be kids, we still have an exciting life ahead of us before, during, and after menopause.
Accept your stage in life. Let's face it, we can't roll back the clock -- most of us wouldn't want to. If you're in mid-life, you're in mid-life. Accept it, make the best of it.
Look ahead not back. As a woman in menopause, you still have thirty percent of your life ahead of you. You're not getting older, you're getting better. You have an opportunity to try new things that the pressures of a young life may not have afforded you a chance to try.
Think positive. Life is less about what happens to you and more about how you feel about it.We've all heard of women who achieve happiness even under the most difficult circumstances. Focus on what's good in your life. You may have more leisure time. You may be more financially stable than when you were younger.
Pamper yourself. Many times we are so busy taking care of others we forget to take care of ourselves. Do something nice for yourself once in a while. Take a class, buy a new outfit, take a long hot bath, go for a weekend at a bed and breakfast all by yourself -- whatever makes you feel good.
Get healthy. Exercise is one of the best natural antidepressants there is, and we're not talking aerobics-queen, thong-wearing, feel-the-burn overdoing it. A brisk 20 minute walk three times a week will make you feel better and feel better about yourself. Weight-bearing exercise like walking, dancing, and mild jogging is good for your heart and will help fight osteoporosis.
Join with others. Look around. Chances are that some of your friends or colleagues may be going through the same thing. Talk about how you feel and you'll probably find that you are not alone.
Ask for help. While we all feel blue on occasion, sometimes it may be a more serious condition called clinical depression. If you feel overwhelmed by the changes you're going through, seek help from a counselor or therapist certified to treat this kind of illness. Talk to a professional if you have feelings of hopelessness, sadness, or despair -- or if you find you're having thoughts of suicide. Don't hesitate. Seek help at once. Call your local mental health center for a referral.
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