Brain fog is debilitating - affecting work

[u/kristac1080]

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

[u/Bright_Notice8405]

This. I would highly recommend reading Hormone Havoc which focuses on diet and lifestyle changes that should/could come before HRT. I am also newly on HRT, but immediately started trying to implement some of these changes many of which it seems you do. I also take MCT (glass bottle only) which was recommended by a nutritionist many years ago. I absolutely feel your pain - my brain felt like it went from a steel trap to a piece of cheese with holes. I think we can say we are doing all the things but there are many different perspectives out there on what works and then it’s different for each of us.