With a wider conversation happening online about menopause, we’re seeing people come forward more than ever discussing the mental health strain that this phase of life can cause. I’m joined in this episode by one of my friends and close colleagues (we work in the same office!) Dr. Laurie Alpert ND, who is a NAMS certified menopause practitioner and your new mental health advocate.    Laurie and I share our experience in working with people in menopause and help you feel seen and understood in this deep conversation about our moods. We cover a lot of ground (from anxiety to depression to “meno-rage”) and give you the fire under your butt that you need to pay attention to your own mental health.    It’s common for us to blame the circumstances (teen and adult children, ageing parents, big careers) as the cause of mood changes for women over 45 and yet, menopause is a significant contributor to new depression (meaning you’ve never had an episode before) or a return of old depression (even if you’re well managed). We want every person to be able to recognize the changes their mood is having so they can get the support they need.    Dr. Laurie Alpert is one of our NAMS (North American Menopause Society) certified Naturopathic Doctors at Clarity Health in Ontario. We serve people in person in the GTA and virtually across Ontario. You can submit a request to work with Laurie at www.clarityhealthburlington.ca Listeners, wondering if perimenopause is contributing to your mental health concerns? Click here and download Dr. Laurie's free resource to encourage your care provider to consider your mental health in the context of menopause.