If there's a teen or nearly teenager in your house, it's also likely to be someone experiencing perimenopause or menopause. Welcome to the perfect hormonal storm, where menopause and puberty collide! Both of these stages can be pretty emotionally turbulent for all involved. So, how can you help manage stress levels over this stage for you when you're also parenting teens through puberty?
Understanding the Changes
During puberty, hormonal changes mean mood swings, increased sensitivity and your child's identity formation as 'A Teenager'.
Similarly, hormonal fluctuations during perimenopause and menopause also mean mood swings, increased anxiety and sleep disturbances.
Both of these stages are natural and to be expected, and they can also lead to challenges for you, your child and those around you. While you're sharing more of the same experiences than you might realise, this increase in irritability, anxiety and mood swings can all too easily lead to misunderstandings, increasing stress within your household. Remember this is all part of the journey and is typical.
Work on Your Communication
Now is the time to think about your communication strategies. Open and honest communication between you and your teen is crucial. Practice actively listening when your kid talks about their feelings or frustrations. Put down distractions and fully focus on what they are saying. You can use your own experiences of shifting hormones to respond with empathy.
Setting aside regular times to check in with your teen to discuss feelings and challenges. Depending on your teen and how they respond, you can agree on a specific time together or set a regular reminder for yourself to check in (nonchalantly). You might initially get a terse or sarcastic response, but believe me, they will appreciate it!
Tips for Managing Stress (that will work for them and you)
Here are some parent-teen stress management strategies:
Physical Activities: Go for a walk or practice some at-home yoga to help build bonds and provide mutual stress relief.
Structured Daily Routines: Create structured daily routines to provide stability and reduce stress. Routine and structure are useful for everyone.
Healthy Lifestyle Habits: Check sleep hygiene, balanced nutrition, and regular physical activity.
Anything that promotes stress relief for parents and teens is helpful.
Look After Yourself
Taking care of yourself, especially in this puberty and menopause overlap, is not a luxury but a necessity. When you show yourself some kindness and compassion, you're better able to be there for those around you. Think of the oxygen mask on a plane; you have to put it on yourself before you check that those around you have theirs on. Plus, it sets a great positive example for your teenage kids. When they see you looking after yourself and showing self-compassion, they're more likely to do this for themselves. It's a win-win situation!
Make time for activities that rejuvenate you, like hobbies, socialising with friends, or simply relaxing (maybe some time off social media!).
Create a Supportive Environment at Home
Mutual respect and patience go a long way. Make time for activities that help encourage bonding and relaxation. These might include family game nights, cooking, or simply watching a film together.
Managing stress and emotions related to life changes helps create a healthier family dynamic. You can work through these challenges more smoothly by improving communication, practising stress management techniques, taking care of yourself, and creating a supportive home environment.
If stress and emotional turbulence become overwhelming, it's important to seek professional help. Counselling, therapy, and support groups are all great sources of support.
Would you like to feel more confident about coping with menopause and teen mood swings? Are you dealing with parenting the challenges of puberty while also experiencing perimenopause or menopause? You don't have to manage this on your own! Contact me today to book a session for personalised support tailored to your needs. We can work together to build a healthier, happier and calmer home environment.