25/06/2026
☀️ **Why does hot weather feel so much harder during perimenopause and menopause?**
With temperatures across parts of the UK expected to reach 31–37°C this week, many women may find themselves feeling more exhausted, irritable, overwhelmed or anxious than usual.
And it’s not “just the heat.”
During perimenopause and menopause, fluctuating and declining oestrogen levels can affect the body’s temperature regulation system.
This means the brain can become more sensitive to changes in temperature, making women more vulnerable to:
• Hot flushes and night sweats
• Sleep disruption
• Fatigue
• Brain fog
• Increased irritability
• Anxiety and overwhelm
From a psychotherapeutic perspective, it’s important to remember that our emotional wellbeing is closely connected to our physical state.
When the body is working hard to cool itself, sleep is disrupted, and energy levels are depleted, our ability to cope with everyday stressors can be reduced.
As a result, challenges that normally feel manageable may suddenly feel much harder.
What I often remind women is this:
If you’re feeling more emotional, anxious, overwhelmed or exhausted during periods of extreme heat, it doesn’t mean you’re failing to cope.
It may simply mean your body is already working harder than usual.
💜 A simple strategy that can help:
Instead of expecting yourself to maintain your usual pace, try asking:
“What would a compassionate version of today look like?”
Perhaps it’s:
• Taking more breaks
• Reducing non-essential tasks
• Drinking more water
• Moving exercise to cooler parts of the day
• Prioritising rest and recovery
• Lowering expectations temporarily
Self-compassion is not giving up.
It’s responding wisely to what your body needs.
💜 How does hot weather affect you during perimenopause or menopause?
I’d love to hear your experiences.
