47. Perimenopause Anxiety and Mood Swings: How to Manage Hormonal Changes in Midlife

Welcome back to Women Mastering Midlife! In this episode, Victoria Byrd dives deep into a topic that resonates with so many women in their 30s, 40s, and 50s—perimenopause anxiety and mood changes. If you’ve ever found yourself wide awake at 3 a.m., overthinking everything from bills to the health of your family (even when there’s no logical reason for worry), you’re not alone. Victoria shares her personal experience with perimenopause and the overwhelming anxiety that can sneak up during this transition. She explains why these symptoms are so common (hint: it’s hormonal!) and how they differ from traditional anxiety or mood disorders. You’ll also learn actionable strategies to manage mood swings and anxiety—whether through lifestyle changes, hormone therapy, or community support. This episode is packed with compassionate advice, science-backed strategies, and relatable stories to remind you that what you’re feeling is real—and there are tools to help you through it. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: • Why perimenopause often brings on anxiety and mood swings, even before hot flashes and night sweats start. • How progesterone plays a major role in mood regulation—and why its decline hits hard. • Symptoms of perimenopause anxiety, including increased worry, restlessness, and brain fog. • Victoria’s personal journey with perimenopause anxiety (including her 40th birthday during the COVID lockdown). • The difference between perimenopausal mood changes and traditional anxiety disorders. • Holistic strategies to support your mood, including nutrition, exercise, sleep hygiene, and breathwork. • When hormone therapy, including micronized progesterone, might be worth considering. • The importance of community support in navigating midlife transitions. Key Takeaways: You’re not imagining it—perimenopause can be an emotional roller coaster, and hormones are often to blame. Lifestyle habits make a huge difference. Regular movement, nutritious foods, and good sleep hygiene are non-negotiables for feeling better. Micronized progesterone can be a game changer. Victoria shares how it’s helped her sleep and mood. You don’t have to do this alone. Find your community and share your experience—whether it’s through a podcast, a walk with a friend, or the Women Mastering Midlife Community. Connect with Victoria Byrd: • www.msvictoriabyrd.com (http://www.msvictoriabyrd.com) •  Instagram: www.instagram.com/msvictoriabyrd (  / msvictoriabyrd  ) •  Join the Women Mastering Midlife Community: https://coach.everfit.io/package/RO74... PODCAST5 for $5 off every month of your membership If You Loved This Episode… • Leave a review on your favorite podcast platform! • Share it with a friend who needs to hear this! • Subscribe for more empowering conversations on mastering midlife.