From Brain Fog to Empowerment: Sparking a Movement on Menopause Awareness

When the author shared her experience with brain fog on LinkedIn, she never anticipated the tremendous response it would generate. Viewed by hundreds of thousands, her post resonated with many, especially women, who shared similar struggles, often linked to perimenopause.

Brain fog is not a medical term, but it describes the frustrating inability to remember simple words or ideas, a challenge faced by many, particularly in high-pressure public speaking environments. The author recounts a live report where she reluctantly decided to use notes for the first time, feeling it was an admission of failure despite being trained to speak without them. This moment of vulnerability led to discussions about the impact of menopause, with a significant percentage of women considering leaving their jobs due to symptoms.

The conversation expanded, leading to the #holdthenotes movement, initiated by Elisheva Marcus, advocating for the acceptance of using notes during presentations. Experts like Dr. Louise Newson pointed out that declining levels of testosterone in both men and women might contribute to brain fog, suggesting that it’s an issue worth addressing. Many women might not realize that these cognitive issues stem from biological changes. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) does not typically include testosterone, leading to interest in various supplements marketed for menopause relief, a multi-billion dollar industry.

Innovative approaches such as red-light therapy are being explored for their potential benefits in improving focus and brain health, with products like neuro espresso headbands emerging as options. The narrative highlights a growing understanding that brain fog is a significant concern and not just a trivial symptom of aging. The author takes proactive steps toward understanding her hormone levels and exploring treatments, representing a broader movement towards empowerment and awareness among women experiencing similar challenges.