Neurodiversity and Menopause: Navigating the Overlapping Challenges and Strengths
- cally3175
- Mar 17
- 3 min read
Neurodiversity and Menopause: Navigating the Overlapping Challenges and Strengths
For many women, menopause is a time of profound physical, emotional, and cognitive change. However, for neurodivergent women—those with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and other neurological differences—menopause can present unique challenges and experiences. The intersection of neurodiversity and menopause is often overlooked, but understanding how the two interact is crucial in providing support, empowerment, and strategies for thriving during this transition.
The Hormonal Impact on the Neurodivergent Brain
Hormones play a key role in brain function, particularly Oestrogen, which influences mood, cognition, and sensory processing. During menopause, declining Oestrogen levels can exacerbate symptoms that neurodivergent women may have been managing throughout their lives, such as:
Executive function difficulties – Increased forgetfulness, trouble with organization, and difficulty maintaining focus (especially in ADHD and autism).
Emotional dysregulation – Heightened anxiety, mood swings, or sensitivity to stress.
Sensory sensitivities – Increased discomfort with noise, textures, or environmental stimuli.
Sleep disturbances – Difficulty falling or staying asleep, which can further affect cognitive and emotional regulation.
Why Neurodivergent Women May Struggle More During Menopause
Neurodivergent women often develop coping mechanisms throughout their lives, but menopause can disrupt these strategies, leading to increased frustration and distress. Some reasons include:
Late Diagnoses – Many women with ADHD and autism receive diagnoses later in life, meaning they may have spent decades masking their symptoms. The cognitive fog and emotional shifts of menopause can make masking harder, leading to burnout.
Medical Gaslighting – Neurodivergent women frequently struggle to have their symptoms taken seriously by healthcare professionals, leading to delayed or inadequate menopause support.
Sensory Overwhelm – As hormone levels shift, previously manageable sensory sensitivities can become more intense, making daily life more exhausting.
Strategies for Managing Menopause as a Neurodivergent Woman
While the menopause transition can be challenging, there are ways to manage symptoms effectively:
1. Understanding and Accepting Your Needs
Recognizing how menopause affects your neurodivergent traits can help you develop tailored coping strategies.
Self-compassion is key—acknowledging that you may need extra support or changes in routine is empowering.
2. Optimizing Your Environment
For sensory sensitivities: Minimize exposure to overwhelming environments and use noise-cancelling
headphones, soft clothing, or dim lighting.
For organization: Use external tools like planners, apps, and sticky notes to support executive function challenges.
3. Exploring Medical and Holistic Support
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Some women find relief from cognitive and emotional symptoms through HRT, though it’s essential to discuss risks and benefits with a healthcare professional.
Diet and Supplements: Omega-3s, magnesium, and vitamin D can support brain health and emotional stability.
Mindfulness and Movement: Practices like yoga, gentle stretching, or walking can help regulate emotions and improve focus.
4. Seeking Support and Advocacy
Finding a Neurodivergent-Friendly Practitioner: Look for healthcare providers who understand both menopause and neurodiversity.
Joining Support Groups: Connecting with other neurodivergent women experiencing menopause can provide validation, strategies, and a sense of community.
Reframing Menopause as a Neurodivergent Woman
Menopause, though challenging, can also be a time of self-discovery and transformation. Many neurodivergent women find that shedding societal expectations and embracing their authentic selves leads to a greater sense of freedom. By acknowledging the unique experiences of neurodiversity and menopause, we can create better support systems and help women navigate this stage with knowledge, strength, and self-compassion.
Final Thoughts
If you’re neurodivergent and going through menopause, know that you are not alone. Your experiences are valid, and there are ways to manage the changes while embracing the strengths that come with your neurodivergence. By raising awareness and fostering supportive spaces, we can ensure that neurodivergent women receive the recognition, understanding, and care they deserve during this important life transition.