If you’ve been feeling more anxious than usual in your late 30s or 40s, you’re not imagining it. Many women experience increased anxiety during premenopause (the years leading up to menopause), even if they’ve never dealt with it before. So, what’s going on?

Science has been digging into this, and the findings are clear: hormonal changes, sleep issues, and life stressors all play a role. But don’t worry—there are ways to manage it and feel more in control.

Why Does Anxiety Increase in Premenopause?

1. Hormones Are in Flux
   Your estrogen levels start to drop, and since estrogen plays a big role in balancing brain chemicals like serotonin (the "feel-good" hormone), these shifts can make you feel on edge, overwhelmed, or just… off. Research shows that fluctuating estrogen levels are linked to higher anxiety in perimenopausal women. 

2. Sleep Can Be a Struggle
   Hot flashes, night sweats, and insomnia? Lack of sleep can make anxiety feel 10 times worse. When you’re not well-rested, your nervous system is already on high alert, making everyday stress feel overwhelming.

3. Life Stress Is Real
   Many women in their 40s are juggling a lot—kids growing up, career pressures, aging parents, personal shifts. Add hormonal changes on top of that, and it's no surprise that anxiety can spike. Studies show that women in perimenopause report higher levels of anxiety than younger women. 

What Can You Do to Feel More Balanced?

✔ Move Your Body: Exercise helps regulate mood by increasing serotonin and endorphins. Even a quick walk outside can work wonders.

✔ Prioritize Sleep: Create a bedtime routine—dim the lights, avoid screens before bed, and try deep breathing exercises to wind down.

✔ Nourish Yourself: A diet rich in magnesium, omega-3s, and antioxidants can help balance your nervous system.

✔ Find Moments of Calm: Whether it’s meditation, journaling, or sipping a warm herbal tea, small daily rituals help reset your nervous system.

✔ Natural Support from Botanicals:
When anxiety feels overwhelming, nature has your back. Our botanical elixir, Essential Calm, is made with biological plants and flowers like passionflower, valerian, and chamomile—all known to naturally soothe stress and promote relaxation. Just 30 drops in water whenever you need a moment of peace. Simple, effective, and rooted in nature. 🌿

The Bottom Line

If premenopausal anxiety is hitting hard, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to just push through it. By understanding what’s happening in your body and giving yourself the care you deserve, you can navigate this phase with more ease. Take a deep breath—you’ve got this. 💛