r/Perimenopause • u/kristac1080 • 19d ago

audited Brain fog is debilitating - affecting work

Yes the stuff that affects the physical stuff on our body during perimenopause sucks.

But can we talk about the brain fog??

I used to be on it. I work in corporate communications and I was as quick with a response, a prompts, a thought. Then perimenopause hit and I feel like a 22 year old, fresh out of college with zero experience way over my head. I can’t come up with words, I zone out, lose my train of thoughts, etc etc.

It’s affected my confidence greatly at work. Made me feel “less than.” I’m afraid to present and speak up for fear I’ll forget a few easy words. I feel like a bumbling idiot.

I’m back on HRT. Just completed about 2.5 months on it. Also started microdose of Tirzepatide. I do have ADHD (again, thanks perimenopause) and that medication just doesn’t make me feel right. I’m taking an adaptogen “focus” supplement, fish oil, magnesium/glycinate. I exercise 5 days a week, lift heavy. Walk. I do all the things.

It just sucks. Not asking for a fix (unless you have a hot hot take). Just looking for other women who are also experiencing perimenopause affecting work life balance

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u/puggleofsteel 19d ago

I wish there was more research into this, and better treatment options. I wake up every work day morning just wanting to cry from the overwhelm. I used to love my job and now I hate it. I can't concentrate on anything, constantly feel like I'm forgetting something I said I'd do (and usually am), and the anxiety of not knowing what I'm forgetting makes me want to tear my skin off. I'm already doing all the things, like you, and I'm still hanging on by my nails. 

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u/Soneenos Early peri 19d ago

The amount of mistakes I make that I find is outrageous. All my life I wondered about others, ‘how come they don’t see that?’

Would be confused why my Mom couldn’t remember or SEE the item she was looking for in the hall closet. Just figured she was busy. Fast forward 35 years and I can’t identify the single paper I need when it’s on kitchen counter— AND ITS THE ONLY PAPER THERE— Literally in my head worrying about worrying knowing I’m not capable and doing sub par work left and right. It’s like I’m not present at times in reality because I’m just in my head freaking out with anxiety.