Midlife Identity Crisis? How to Reclaim Yourself After 40

In this episode, psychologist Heather Irvine-Rundle covers the emotional challenges women face in their 40s and beyond, including identity shifts, menopause mood changes, loss, and anxiety. With 20+ years’ experience, she shares practical, science-backed tools to help you navigate these changes confidently.

What to Expect

• Understanding identity shifts beyond roles like “mum” or “partner”
• How hormonal changes affect mood, anxiety, and thinking during menopause
• Differentiating menopause symptoms from ADHD or anxiety
• Using CBT to manage midlife mental health
• What to expect from psychologists, counsellors, and psychiatrists
• Tips for healthy relationships, self-care, and body image
• Honest talk about therapy stigma, legal concerns, and safe spaces to heal

If you’re facing midlife changes like empty nesting, hormonal shifts, relationship challenges, or anxiety, this episode offers compassionate, expert advice to help you navigate with clarity and strength—whether you’re considering therapy or just want to understand what’s happening.

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Disclaimer: This podcast and any information, advice, opinions or statements within it do not constitute medical, health care or other professional advice. Information is provided for educational and entertainment purposes only.

00:00:00 – Introduction to Midlife Identity & Mental Health

00:01:10 – Women’s Identity Challenges & Self-Concept in Midlife

00:03:02 – Societal Expectations and Their Impact

00:04:11 – Building a Strong Sense of Self

00:05:15 – Effect of Societal Roles on Hobbies & Passions

00:07:39 – Empty Nest Syndrome & Emotional Challenges

00:09:50 – Coping with Empty Nesting & Transitions

00:12:07 – Understanding Psychologists & Mental Health Support

00:12:31 – Psychologist vs Psychiatrist: Differences

00:15:12 – Psychology Specializations & Misconceptions

00:16:39 – ADHD & Autism Spectrum in Perimenopausal Women

00:22:32 – ADHD Diagnosis & Treatment Options

00:22:53 – Medication for ADHD Symptoms00:26:18 – Sponsored: Skincare Tips for Women Over 40

00:27:46 – ADHD Obsessions and Hyperfocus

00:28:23 – ADHD Signs & Symptoms in Adult Women

00:31:13 – Perimenopause, Anxiety & Hormones

00:35:39 – CBT for Anxiety and Mood

00:40:15 – Importance of Therapy in Midlife

00:41:22 – Building Healthy Relationships

00:42:31 – What to Expect in Therapy

00:43:40 – First Therapy Session: Preparation

00:47:43 – Legal Issues & Confidentiality in Therapy

00:50:09 – Therapy’s Role in Healing Relationships

00:50:59 – Self-Relationship & Personal Growth

00:53:00 – Weight Management & Emotional Eating

00:57:18 – Finding the Right Therapist

00:58:50 – Addressing Past Trauma

01:01:58 – Emotional Eating & Weight Strategies

01:05:02 – Alcohol as a Coping Mechanism

01:06:51 – Recognizing & Managing Suicidal Thoughts

01:11:37 – Identifying Suicide Warning Signs & Getting Help

01:15:48 – Importance of Professional Mental Health Support

01:16:05 – Reflections & Advice to Younger Self

• midlife identity crisis
• women’s mental health after 40
• perimenopause anxiety symptoms
• menopause mood swings treatment
• difference between psychologist and psychiatrist
• therapy for empty nest syndrome
• ADHD symptoms in women
• menopause and brain fog
• cognitive behavioural therapy for women
• how to cope with divorce after 40
• emotional struggles in midlife women
• weight gain in menopause
• self-care tips for women over 40
• mental health therapy for women
• signs of perimenopause anxiety