Caring in Midlife: Managing the Emotional Load with Dr Sabina Brennan, Psychologist & Neuroscientist. S7. Ep 3.

Caring responsibilities often fall heavily on women in midlife. You’re juggling work, family life, menopause — and now, the care of ageing parents or elderly relatives too. It’s a huge emotional and physical load, and it can take a real toll on your wellbeing. In this episode of The Happy Menopause, I’m joined by psychologist and neuroscientist Dr Sabina Brennan, author of Still Me, a compassionate, evidence-based guide for anyone caring for someone with dementia. But while dementia is a focus, the practical tips and emotional insights she shares apply to anyone caring for an elderly loved one. We discuss the emotional impact of caring, the early signs that someone might need more support, and how to communicate with empathy and confidence when things get difficult. Sabina explains why it’s so easy to lose yourself in the caring role and shares practical strategies to protect your own health, manage stress, and avoid burnout or compassion fatigue. We also talk about the guilt so many carers feel — and how to handle it in a constructive way — as well as her top tips for staying resilient and hopeful in the face of such a demanding role. If you’re caring for an elderly loved one in midlife, this conversation offers clarity, comfort, and a wealth of practical advice to help you look after yourself while caring for someone else. Learn how to build your own menopause diet to manage your symptoms with my book The Happy Menopause: Smart Nutrition to Help You Flourish. And if you're tired of feeling tired and grappling with brain fog, check out my new book: The Happy Menopause Guide to Energy; Nutrition to Rejuvenate Your Brain & Body. It's available in all the usual places.