Nutritionist Shares Personal Story About Perimenopause and Mental Health

Published 2026-10-25

A New Zealand nutritionist, Claire Turnbull, has shared her personal experience of perimenopause, the stage of life before menopause when a woman's hormone levels begin to change. In an article published by 1News, she describes how the changes affected her emotionally. She says that at one point she "couldn't stop the tears", and she wants to show other women that these feelings can be linked to this stage of life.

Perimenopause can happen for several years before a woman stops having periods. During this time, hormone levels, especially oestrogen, can go up and down. Doctors and researchers know that these changes can affect the body in many ways, and they can also affect mood, sleep and stress levels. Many women do not realise that mental health symptoms may be connected to perimenopause, so they may not seek help or advice.

Turnbull's story is part of a wider conversation about women's health in New Zealand. Her article also offers five practical tips for looking after both the body and the mind during this time. The article does not describe the tips in detail in the short summary available, so readers who want specific advice should read the full article on the 1News website.

For many New Zealand women, perimenopause is a normal but often under-discussed part of life. Stories like Turnbull's may help people talk more openly about their experiences. Anyone who is worried about their mental health or physical symptoms is encouraged to speak with a doctor or another health professional.

Sources: 1News

More New Zealand news

All New Zealand news · News by country