Hi @Former-Member
I must admit it was life saving for me as it was for your mum. If you are having trouble with hormone fluctuation now I would keep a close eye on it.
I had the same symptoms with peri-menopause that you are describing now. It caused chronic anxiety and distress around that time of the month particularly, like you. And yes, it made it harder to cope. I am not surprised you are finding things overwhelming for you at times - it can cause suicidal ideation too if bad enough. And heightened irritability, anger, flying off the handle more easily etc.
It's a much overlooked area of health and most GPs don't have a clue. If you can peruse seeing a gynaecologist (I saw an endocrinologist whom was also great specialising in this area) please do so as you shouldn't be suffering this way - there is little knowledge unfortunately in this area but there are some good professionals out there that know how to treat it.
May I ask how old your mum was before she went on hrt? I started suffering peri-menopause at age 40 and it just became gradually worse. I went on HRT at 50 (and I was still menstruating, just less frequently) and at 56 I am still on it and it's been great for me. I don't intend to even look at coming off until at least 60. Hormone imbalance can make ones life hell. Hope all goes well for you my friend - I really don't won't you to suffer needlessly. 🤗❤