Is it Perimenopause Burnout or Stress?
Are you over 40 and waking up already feeling tired?
Overstimulated by 10am?
Finding it hard to focus on even simple tasks because they suddenly feel impossible?
That’s not “just stress”. It could be perimenopause burnout.
Perimenopause burnout is more than feeling a bit worn out. It’s like a perfect storm of hormonal chaos, disrupted sleep, emotional overload and mental fatigue — and it often hits women in their 40s at a time when life is incredibly demanding.
Why Perimenopause Burnout Feels So Overwhelming
Even though many of the symptoms feel like they’re “all in your head”, it’s important to remember that perimenopause is a physical process.
Since puberty, oestrogen and progesterone have been running the show. They regulate and work alongside systems all over the body. When hormone levels begin to fluctuate and decline in midlife, those normal regulating processes are affected.
This includes:
- Metabolism and energy levels
- How the brain is organised and functions
- Sleep quality
- Stress resilience
Brain fog, insomnia, exhaustion and overwhelm are all common symptoms of perimenopause. The reality is that your brain is having to work much harder just to get the same things done — and that can feel like stress on top of stress.
The Role of Stress Hormones
Cortisol, our main stress hormone, can be heavily influenced during perimenopause. Hormonal transitions are challenging, and your body needs time to adjust.
It’s really important to remember this: you are not failing at things you used to manage well.
Your workload has effectively increased. You now need extra resources, more rest and more recovery time. Many women try to push through and fight this reality — and that’s completely normal too.
Why Self-Care Feels So Hard in Perimenopause
Perimenopause self-care can feel like a huge step. Many women are already overwhelmed with work, family and other responsibilities, so the idea of “being kind to yourself” can feel daunting.
But self-care is a life skill — and it doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Think baby steps.
Small Changes That Can Help
Start small and manageable:
- Set one boundary
- Delegate a single task
- Prioritise nourishment, rest and resilience where you can
Even tiny changes count:
- Porridge instead of toast for breakfast
- A 10-minute break or walk
- Going to bed just 10 minutes earlier
These small habits add up and help support your energy and stress resilience during perimenopause.
Other topics that you may find helpful:
5 Perimenopause Tips I Wish I Knew Sooner
10 self-care tips for perimenopause, menopause & post-menopause
Feeling easily overwhelmed and under pressure in perimenopause and menopause
