Sunday Shortie: Where is My Mind? Menopause vs Mental Health

In today’s episode, I’m sharing a vulnerable moment in my mental health journey: I have a four-hour psychological assessment scheduled tomorrow, and instead of fear, I’m feeling clarity and curiosity.I reflect on what led me here—early ADHD patterns I can now recognize in hindsight, including Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD)—and why seeking answers later in life feels grounding, not overwhelming.This episode is less about labels and more about understanding how the brain works, especially when it comes to people-pleasing, emotional sensitivity, and chronic over-functioning.How people-pleasing is reinforced through dopamine and the amygdalaWhy the nervous system learns safety through approval and performanceHow insight and assessment can support healthier choices moving forwardWhen we understand the neurobiology behind our patterns, shame loses its grip. People-pleasing isn’t a personality flaw—it’s often a learned survival response shaped by the brain’s reward and threat systems.For me, pursuing assessment now isn’t about rewriting the past. It’s about gaining clarity, self-compassion, and better tools for the decades ahead—so I can work with my brain instead of constantly pushing against it.If you’ve ever wondered why you’re so sensitive to feedback, driven by approval, or exhausted by always holding it together, this episode offers context—and relief.🎧 Listen now for a grounded, honest conversation about mental health, ADHD awareness, and understanding your nervous system with more kindness.Interested in the Rise + Thrive retreat? Visit:www.thrivewithchristy.com