By: Angela Watson
Menopause is often framed as a purely physical experience, defined by hot flashes, night sweats, and changes in metabolism. But for many women, the mental health effects of menopause—such as anxiety, depression, brain fog, and mood swings—can be just as significant, if not more so, in some cases. Despite this, discussions around menopause often overlook the potential impact it has on emotional well-being. Allie Theiss, MSc, CSC, ABS, a Menopausal Care Provider and Integrative Wellness Coach, is on a mission to change that. Through her Thrive Framework™, Theiss is working to bring mental health to the forefront of menopause care, helping women navigate the emotional complexities of this transition with greater confidence and resilience.
“Mental health during menopause is often just as important as physical health,” says Theiss. “Yet, so many women are dismissed when they report feeling anxious, forgetful, or emotionally overwhelmed. They’re often told it’s just part of aging or that they should ‘power through it.’ That kind of thinking is often considered outdated. Menopause is a major life transition, and women may benefit from real strategies to support their emotional and cognitive well-being.”
The Mental Toll of Menopause
Studies suggest that menopause can sometimes significantly impact mental health. Hormonal fluctuations—particularly in estrogen and progesterone—may affect neurotransmitters in the brain, potentially leading to increased anxiety, mood swings, and cognitive fog. According to the Society for Women’s Health Research, up to 34% of women experiencing menopause-related symptoms are not diagnosed and do not even realize they are in menopause. Some women report struggling with depression or anxiety for the first time in their lives, yet many do not receive targeted support for their emotional well-being.
Theiss explains that these mental health challenges are often exacerbated by societal pressures. Women in midlife are frequently balancing careers, caregiving responsibilities, and the expectations of staying productive, even while their bodies undergo dramatic changes. Some feel they must suppress their struggles to maintain a sense of normalcy, which can sometimes lead to burnout, emotional exhaustion, and worsening mental health issues.
“We don’t talk enough about how menopause can affect mental clarity, emotional resilience, and self-confidence,” Theiss notes. “Brain fog isn’t just a nuisance—it can sometimes affect a woman’s career, relationships, and sense of self. We need to change the way we approach menopause so that women feel supported rather than sidelined.”
The Thrive Framework™: A Mental Health-Centered Approach
Through her Thrive Framework™, Theiss offers a structured, six-pillar framework that integrates mental health support into many aspects of menopause care. Her program emphasizes:
- Mindfulness & Stress Management – Theiss teaches women how to use breathwork, meditation, and mindfulness techniques to potentially calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety. These practices may help regulate emotions and provide a sense of control during unpredictable hormonal shifts.
- Cognitive Health & Mental Clarity – Many women experience “menopause brain,” a term used to describe memory lapses and difficulty concentrating. Theiss incorporates cognitive exercises, brain-nourishing foods, and lifestyle strategies to potentially enhance mental sharpness.
- Emotional Resilience – Theiss works with women to reframe menopause as a powerful transformation rather than a decline. Through mindset coaching, women may learn to embrace this stage with confidence, developing greater emotional strength and self-acceptance.
- Holistic Sleep Strategies – Poor sleep can exacerbate mental health struggles, and insomnia is a common complaint during menopause. Theiss’s approach includes natural methods for improving sleep hygiene, reducing nighttime anxiety, and regulating circadian rhythms.
- Nutritional & Hormonal Balance – The gut-brain connection may play a significant role in mood regulation. Theiss focuses on integrative nutrition, helping women support their mental health through dietary adjustments, hydration, and supplementation when needed.
- Community & Support Networks – Mental health often thrives in connection. Theiss fosters a supportive community where women can share experiences, seek guidance, and feel less isolated.
Advocacy for Workplace Mental Health in Menopause
Beyond one-on-one coaching, Theiss is also a strong advocate for workplace awareness of menopause and mental health. Many women in their 40s and 50s hold leadership positions, yet companies rarely provide menopause-friendly policies. Theiss argues that organizations should recognize the impact of menopause on employees’ mental well-being.
“Workplaces need to evolve,” she asserts. “Mental health struggles due to menopause should not be ignored. Women could benefit from access to flexible schedules, mental health resources, and open conversations about what they’re experiencing—just like with any other major health condition.”
Theiss is actively working with corporate wellness programs to integrate menopause education into their mental health initiatives. She provides workshops on how employers might support menopausal employees, reduce stigma, and create more inclusive environments.
The Path Forward
Theiss’s work is beginning to transform the way women approach menopause. Her clients often report reduced anxiety, improved focus, and an overall sense of empowerment after working with her.
“Menopause is not a crisis—it’s a new phase of life, and it can be a time of incredible personal growth,” Theiss says. “When women have the right tools to support their mental health, they may emerge from this transition stronger, more self-assured, and ready to step into the next chapter of their lives with confidence.”
As more women seek holistic, non-pharmaceutical solutions to menopause-related mental health challenges, Theiss’s Thrive Framework™ is emerging as a leader in reshaping how menopause is understood and treated.
To learn more about Allie Theiss’s work, visit menopausewellness.co or follow her on Instagram, TikTok, and Substack.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, nor does it replace professional medical expertise or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, always consult with a physician or other healthcare professional.
Published by Zane L.
