Avoiding vulnerability is a common menopause response that ultimately worsens it. Understanding the paradoxical relationship between vulnerability and menopause opens new pathways for recovery.
How Avoiding Vulnerability Maintains Menopause
- Concealing menopause from others prevents the connection that would help
- The energy required to maintain a facade when menopause is high is enormous
- Shame about menopause thrives in secrecy — vulnerability interrupts this
- Authentic expression of menopause often elicits the support that reduces it
Brené Brown's Research Relevance to Menopause
Brown's research shows that people with high levels of shame (common in menopause) avoid vulnerability — which paradoxically increases shame and menopause. Courage to be vulnerable interrupts this cycle.
Practicing Vulnerability with Menopause
Start small: share one authentic feeling with one trusted person. The feared negative response usually doesn't materialize — and when it doesn't, confidence in vulnerability builds.