Perimenopause symptoms: the impact on nurses’ mental health

Low mood, lack of confidence, anxiety and depression can have devastating effects at home and work. Openness and support for staff are vital, say experts

• Perimenopause can cause severe emotional issues and even lead to suicide. With nursing being predominantly female, support for staff experiencing difficulties is essential
• Nurses have a higher risk of suicide than women in other occupations and the perimenopause can exacerbate stress, burnout and a loss of confidence
• Emotional symptoms; what it’s like to work during perimenopause; how to get support; possible treatments and menopause clinics for NHS staff

Victoria Smith, a solicitor who had three children, died by suicide in April 2021 after a dramatic deterioration in her