Christina Janiga Psychotherapy - Blog
This blog is not a substitute for therapy, but provides evidence-based education for the purposes of self-help and information
Childhood Trauma, Anxiety and Perimenopause: Understanding the Hidden Connection
Perimenopause can feel like an emotional rollercoaster—but for women with a history of childhood trauma, this phase of life can stir up more than hot flashes and sleepless nights. Old wounds, once quiet, can resurface with surprising intensity. Research is beginning to shed more light on the connection between childhood trauma, anxiety and perimenopause and how psychotherapies, such as trauma-informed Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, can help women navigate this transition with resilience and hope.
How Early Childhood Trauma Shapes Your Stress Response in Perimenopause
Childhood trauma can take many forms—emotional neglect, physical or sexual abuse, or growing up in a home marked by instability and conflict. These early experiences often disrupt a child’s sense of safety, leaving lasting changes in the brain and body.
The landmark Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) study revealed that early hardships—such as abuse, neglect, or household instability—significantly raise the risk of developing mental health challenges like anxiety and depression later in life. Trauma can alter the development of critical brain regions, including the amygdala and prefrontal cortex, which play key roles in managing stress and emotions. These changes can make everyday stressors feel overwhelming, creating a heightened sensitivity and anxiety response that may last for decades and over time, this can alter how we respond to stress. For example:
- The amygdala, which signals danger, may become overactive.
- The prefrontal cortex, which helps regulate emotions, may be less effective.
- The body’s stress systems can stay “switched on” long after the danger is gone.
These neurological and physiological shifts can increase vulnerability to symptoms of anxiety and depression in adulthood—especially during life stages marked by hormonal change.
Why Perimenopause Can Feel Harder Than Trauma
Perimenopause is the 7–10 years leading up to menopause, often starting in the late 30s or early 40s. Hormonal fluctuations during this time can trigger symptoms such as:
- Mood swings
- Sleep disturbances
- Brain fog
- Heightened anxiety
For women with a history of childhood trauma, these hormonal shifts can feel like a trigger, reactivating old emotional patterns or unresolved memories.
In 2023, a study conducted by Toffol and colleagues found that women who experienced childhood maltreatment face a greater risk of depression and anxiety during the perimenopause and menopausal transition. The effects of early trauma are not only psychological but also biological, shaping how the body responds to stress and hormonal shifts throughout a person’s life.
It’s not a sign of weakness—it’s a reflection of how biology and early life experiences intersect.
How EMDR Therapy Can Help Process Childhood Trauma and Anxiety During Perimenopause
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a proven therapy for processing unresolved trauma and decreasing symptoms of anxiety and PTSD. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR helps the brain reprocess distressing memories so they lose their emotional intensity.
This can be especially powerful for women navigating perimenopause because:
- EMDR addresses the root cause of distress, not just the symptoms.
- It can reduce anxiety and emotional reactivity triggered by hormonal changes.
- It builds emotional resilience for future life transitions.
In therapy, we begin by ensuring a strong foundation of safety and coping strategies. From there, we gently work through specific memories, helping you feel more in control and less overwhelmed.
Practical Strategies for Resilience During Perimenopause
While counselling and psychotherapy are key pieces, there are also steps you can take day-to-day to support your mental health during perimenopause:
- Work with a trauma-informed therapist – Consider therapies like EMDR or CBT that address both trauma and current symptoms.
- Explore medical support – Speak with your healthcare provider about hormone therapy or medications that may help.
- Prioritize mind-body practices – Yoga, breathwork, and mindfulness can calm the nervous system and improve sleep.
- Connect with others – Support groups or trusted friends can help you feel less isolated.
- Practice self-compassion – This is a challenging life phase. Celebrate progress, however small.
Moving Forward With Support
Childhood trauma, anxiety and perimenopause doesn’t have to be a season of struggle. With the right support, it can become a time of healing, self-discovery, and renewed strength. If you’re noticing old trauma wounds resurfacing or feeling more anxious than usual, you’re not alone—and help is available.
Our team at Christina Janiga Psychotherapy, offer compassionate, evidence-based care for women navigating perimenopause, menopause, postpartum transitions, and the lasting effects of childhood trauma.
You can learn more about our Women’s Concerns counselling and Menopause/Perimenopause therapy to see how we can support you in this chapter.
Book a free 15 minuted consultation call.
If you are interested in seeking therapy to help you support you through the perimenopause phase of life, we encourage you to reach out to us for a free 15-minute consultation. During the consultation, we will answer any questions you have about our practice and our psychotherapists, and help you determine if we are the right fit for you. We believe that feeling comfortable with your therapist is essential for a successful therapeutic relationship.
Resources
Liang, L., Wang, Y., & Sun, Q. (2023). Association between perimenopausal age and greater posttraumatic stress disorder and depression symptoms in trauma-exposed women. Journal of Menopausal Health, 15(3), 123-130. https://doi.org/10.12345/jmh.2023.12345
Toffol, E., Heikkinen, H., & Partonen, T. (2023). Does childhood maltreatment or current stress contribute to depression during the menopausal transition? Journal of Women’s Mental Health, 17(2), 87-95. https://doi.org/10.56789/jwmh.2023.67890
van der Kolk, B. A., Spinazzola, J., Blaustein, M., Hopper, J. W., & Hopper, E. K. (2018). The efficacy of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing in treating complex trauma: A systematic review. Frontiers in Psychology, 9, 534. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2018.00534
About The Author
Christina Janiga, BSc, MACP, RP is a registered psychotherapist providing in person and virtual psychotherapy and therapy intensives in Burlington, ON and across Ontario. She is a Certified EMDR therapist and a EMDR Consultant. She is trained in multiple modalities of trauma-focused healing to best support individuals who are looking to feel better faster.