Chronological coverage updated 3rd October 2026 10:54.
Update 1 · 3rd October 2026
Severe Perimenopause Symptoms Highlight Need for Earlier Mental Health Recognition
For three years, Sally Williams experienced severe mental health deterioration that led to nearly 11 months in hospital across eight admissions, the loss of her finance career, and separation from her teenage son. Unaware that her severe distress was tied to perimenopause, she eventually joined the dots herself before securing hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
Understanding the Transition Period
Perimenopause refers to the years leading up to menopause, commonly starting around age 46, during which women experience hormonal fluctuations while still having regular or irregular periods. Symptoms can include hot flushes, brain fog, severe anxiety, and intense mood swings, which are frequently misdiagnosed as primary mental health disorders.
BBC News reportedly quoted Sally Williams (Former finance worker and perimenopause advocate) as saying: “I had to leave my job. This was at perimenopause time. My message to women is that, menopause is not the danger zone, it's the run up, it's the 45 to 54.”.
After initiating HRT, which tops up and stabilises oestrogen levels, Williams saw a dramatic improvement in her health. However, the years of undiagnosed symptoms resulted in profound personal trauma, including physical injuries from suicide attempts during isolated hospital stays.
Widening the Conversation
Williams is set to speak about her diagnosis journey at Meno Fest at Worcester Rugby Club on 7 October as part of Menopause Awareness Month. She emphasizes that men, including partners and sons, must be brought into the conversation to help recognise symptoms and support family members through the transition.
- Perimenopause can trigger severe psychological symptoms years before a woman's periods stop entirely.
- Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can stabilise hormone levels and alleviate severe psychological and physical symptoms when correctly diagnosed.
