Ep #8: Perimenopause: Mental Health with Dr. Danette Conklin, PhD

In this episode of Perimenopause: Mental Health with Dr. Danette Conklin, Dr. Rachel Pope welcomes Dr. Danette Conklin, PhD, a Clinical and Health Psychologist and Assistant Professor at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. Dr. Conklin shares her expertise on the intersection of behavioral health, weight management, and midlife transitions, including perimenopause and menopause.

During perimenopause, many women experience a range of physical and emotional symptoms that can significantly impact their quality of life. These symptoms might include hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and changes in sleep patterns. Understanding these changes is crucial for women to navigate this phase effectively. Dr. Conklin emphasizes the importance of recognizing these symptoms as a normal part of the transition rather than something to be ashamed of or to suffer in silence.

As Director of Behavioral Health Services for both surgical and non-surgical weight management programs at University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Dr. Conklin has a unique perspective on how psychological and biological factors influence health during midlife. She has also contributed to establishing menopause clinics in Cleveland, helping women navigate the physical and emotional changes of this life stage, including the challenges of Perimenopause: Mental Health.

We discuss:

Join us as we explore Perimenopause: Mental Health and its impact on women’s lives.

• How behavioral health intersects with perimenopause and menopause
  
• Managing weight, mood, and lifestyle changes during midlife
  
• The role of psychology in supporting cardiovascular and metabolic health
  
• Strategies for navigating stress, sleep, and emotional shifts
  
• How to advocate for yourself and your care during midlife transitions
  
• Practical ways to support wellness, including the use of non-prescription supplements like MiM, which are designed to help with peri- and post-menopause symptoms
  

With her extensive experience on national committees and advisory boards, including The Menopause Society and the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, Dr. Conklin provides practical guidance for women seeking to thrive during this transformative stage of life.