How to get support from your family in menopause

We spoke to clinical psychologist Leanne Mulheron — who specialises in women’s mental health and hormonal transitions — for five ways you can guide your family to support you through menopause.

1. Start the conversation early

Help your family understand what perimenopause is — and that it’s more than just a medical term. Talk about the hormonal changes, mood shifts, sleep disturbances and other symptoms you may be experiencing. Normalising the conversation breaks down stigma and builds empathy.

2. Express how you feel — not just what you're going through

Perimenopause can affect your mood, self-esteem and mental clarity. Let your loved ones know when you’re feeling low, anxious or just not like yourself. When you share your emotional experience, it helps them respond with compassion, not confusion.

3. Ask for help

If you know what you need, ask for it and be specific. If you don’t know what you need try asking for help around the house, space for rest, a hug or just someone to listen without trying to "fix" things. Clear requests reduce frustration on both sides.

4. Encourage learning together

Suggest resources, podcasts or events that you can explore together. The more your family understands the realities of perimenopause, the more confident and compassionate they’ll feel in supporting you.

5. Show yourself kindness — and let them see it

By setting boundaries, prioritising sleep, saying no to overcommitments or speaking kindly to yourself, you model healthy self-care. This not only supports your own wellbeing but teaches your family how to show support by following your lead.

Want to know more about thriving in menopause?

Menopause is not something you need to go through on your own — opening up conversations and involving your family can make all the difference. If you’d like to explore this further, join us at the Prevention Australia World Menopause Day lunch at the Shangri-La Hotel in Sydney on October 18, where Leanne Mulheron will be sharing more expert insights alongside other specialists.

Come along to connect with like-minded women, hear from leading experts and enjoy a supportive day of learning about menopause. Plus every ticketholder will receive a free goodie bag worth over $500. Get your tickets at www.worldmenopauseday.com.au.

About Leanne Mulheron

Leanne Mulheron is a clinical psychologist specialising in women’s mental health, with a focus on hormonal transitions such as perimenopause. She supports individuals navigating mood changes, anxiety, identity shifts, relationship challenges, rage, trauma reactivation and unmasked neurodiversity during this time. Leanne advocates for a compassionate, evidence-informed approach that integrates psychological support, hormonal education and validation of women’s lived experiences. Resources like the “How to survive perimenopause” guide are freely available on her website https://www.affinitypsychology.com.au

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