Hormones and Alcohol: Navigating Midlife Changes with Victoria English
Episode Overview
Hormonal shifts during perimenopause and menopause can lead to mood swings, anxiety, and sleep disruptions. Alcohol is often used as a quick fix for these symptoms but can worsen them over time. Understanding the science behind these changes can help in making healthier choices. Healthcare providers often overlook alcohol use when addressing midlife symptoms. Supportive communities and informed decisions can lead to a healthier, alcohol-free life.
I understand that you're in that cycle. I understand how it may feel to wonder if you'll ever get out of it.
In this episode of the Alcohol-Free Lifestyle podcast, Coach Victoria English takes a deep dive into the intricate relationship between hormonal changes and alcohol use in midlife. As women transition through perimenopause and menopause, fluctuating levels of estrogen and progesterone can lead to mood swings, anxiety, and sleep disruptions. These challenges often drive many to use alcohol as a quick coping mechanism.
Victoria shares her personal journey through perimenopause, shedding light on how hormonal shifts impacted her drinking habits and mental health. She also highlights the often-overlooked role of healthcare providers in addressing alcohol use among midlife women. Drawing from her recent course at Stanford University on addiction and recovery, Victoria discusses the science behind hormonal changes and their effects on neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine.
The episode aims to provide a better understanding of these shifts, offering hope and healthier alternatives for coping. By the end, you'll feel more informed about the biological changes happening in midlife and inspired to make positive changes in your relationship with alcohol. Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation that could be the first step towards a healthier, alcohol-free life.