Why Perimenopause Can Start With Anxiety, with Dr. Blake Myers

Send us Fan MailSomething feels off, but you can’t quite name it: your sleep is lighter, your mood is sharper, your focus is harder to hold, and even small stressors land differently. That quiet shift is often how perimenopause begins, and it can be confusing when you’re expecting hot flashes to be the “first sign.” We sit down with Dr. Blake Myers, a licensed naturopathic physician and creator of The Bridge System, to make sense of what’s happening and to replace fear with a clearer map.We talk about why anxiety and brain fog can show up early, how the menopausal transition can feel like an identity change, and why telling women it’s “just hormones” leaves out critical pieces. Dr. Myers explains the bigger menopause and mental health picture, including gut microbiome changes, HPA axis stress, mitochondrial energy dips, and the way inflammation can reshape how the brain feels and functions. Most importantly, we explore the hopeful idea that the brain may be restructuring and building new pathways rather than simply declining.From there, we get practical. We share a simple starting point that respects real life: identify the one or two changes you already know would help, then build from that. Dr. Myers highlights an anti-inflammatory, plant-forward diet and movement that prioritises resistance training to build muscle, support longevity, and help you feel more solid in your body during perimenopause and menopause.If this conversation gives you a new way to understand yourself or someone you love, subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave a review so more women can find honest, useful support. Connect With the GuestWebsite: https://thebridgesystemmethod.comSocial: search "The Bridge System" on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTubeBook: The Bridge System (available on Amazon)Immunology Diagnostics30% off of IMBXX. Code: Healthymind Get the test, insurance covers.Avita YogaFree Avita Yoga class and exclusive interview with Jeff: Know Your ConstitutionTowards Wellness CoachingOffer: 25% off | Code: POD2026. Available internationally in paperback and eBook formats.Vegout VoyageOffer: 15% off all personalized Armchair Iceland merch | Code: ICELANDGEAR15Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showWant to Be a Guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? 👉  DM me on PodMatch 💬 Want to come on the show? Be a Guest 🌐 Explore the full network  | 📨 Newsletter | 👥 LinkedIn CommunityThis isn't self-help. It's self-honesty.💼 Sponsor Our Show | 🎬 Check Our Services📌 Disclaimer This episode is for educational and informational purposes only. Guest views are personal and do not represent the host or Healthy Mind by Avik™. The Network does not verify or endorse guest statements. Nothing here is medical, legal, financial, or professional advice, please consult a qualified professional. Engage critically. Third-party content referenced under fair use. Guests are responsible for their own statements. Concerns? Contact us | Full disclaimer.By listening, you accept this disclaimer in full.