Ep.192 Anxiety in Midlife & Menopause: Why It Ramps Up and How to Calm It

Anxiety often feels like it comes out of nowhere in midlife—especially during perimenopause and after menopause. You’re doing “all the right things,” yet your nervous system feels constantly on edge. Racing thoughts. Poor sleep. A sense that something isn’t right… but you can’t quite name it.In this episode of Asking for a Friend, I’m joined by Dr. Lori Davis, licensed psychologist, clinical instructor at Weill Cornell Medicine, and author of the upcoming workbook This Is Your Anxiety on Menopause. Together, we unpack why anxiety often intensifies in midlife—and what women can actually do about it.Dr. Davis shares both the science and the lived experience behind anxiety, explaining how hormonal shifts, nervous system changes, sleep disruption, perfectionism, and decades of “pushing through” collide in this season of life. We also talk about why anxiety may feel different now than it did earlier in life—and why you are not broken.In this conversation, we cover:Why anxiety often spikes during perimenopause and menopauseWhether menopause causes anxiety or unmasks an existing vulnerabilityThe role of hormones, cortisol, sleep, and the nervous systemWhy worry loops and nighttime anxiety are so commonEvidence-based tools to calm anxiety (including breathing, exposure, and cognitive strategies)When therapy or medication may be helpful—and when lifestyle alone isn’t enoughHow to stop fighting anxiety and start working with your nervous systemThis episode is grounding, practical, and deeply validating for women navigating midlife changes. If you’ve ever thought, “Why am I suddenly anxious when nothing is technically wrong?”—this conversation will help you connect the dots.👉 Share this episode with a friend who needs reassurance that they’re not alone—and not failing.You can find Dr. Lori Davis at https://www.drloridavis.com/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/drloridavis/?hl=en_________________________________________If you’re doing “all the right things” and still feel stuck, adding a layer of support may be an option. I’ve partnered with a trusted telehealth platform offering modern solutions for women in midlife—including micro-dosed GLP-1 and other peptide therapies.https://elliemd.com/michelefolan - Create a free account to view all products.Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/askingforafriend_pod/✨ Sign up for my weekly newsletter: https://michelefolanfasterway.myflodesk.com/i6i44jw4fqLike to connect? Email me at [email protected] Transcripts are created with AI and may not be perfectly accurate.Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.