I am 42 and maybe wonder if the menopause is what’s causing my sadness. I have what I think are night sweats, my periods I would say are closer together but not heavier. My lack of libido is a real concern, and lately my views on everything have changed. I cry, I want to shut myself away and be on my own. I have really changed. I am odd, that’s the only way I can explain it. Am I just depressed or maybe just changing. Can you help?

This is one of the common symptoms of the menopause. Many women find that their moods can change very quickly and that they just can't understand how they feel. You are not alone! I would suggest that you see your doctor, who can do a simple test to see where your hormone levels are. That will give you a better idea of what is happening. In the meantime a good multivit and extra magnesium may be a good idea. The menopause can put tremendous stress onto our nervous system and this can be a major contributory factor. Anything that helps to support this system will be of benefit. Acupuncture can often be really effective for this as well, so it is worth looking into. The menopause is a transitional phase – you won’t be like this forever - but it’s worth really looking after yourself and your health to have as smooth a ride through it as possible.

Eileen Durward