Teaching Through Perimenopause: What No One Talks About
We talk a lot about teacher burnout, but what if part of the story is something far less discussed - perimenopause?
So many women in education hit their 40s and start to feel “off.” The confidence they once had begins to waver, their patience shortens, energy dips and brain fog makes even simple tasks feel overwhelming. They start to question whether they’re in the right job, or worse, whether they’ve somehow “lost it.”
But this isn’t about capability - it’s about biology.
Perimenopause can begin up to a decade before menopause itself, bringing symptoms that can deeply affect a woman’s life and work. These can include:
Fatigue and disrupted sleep
Anxiety, depression, low mood
Hot flushes and night sweats
Brain fog and forgetfulness
Mood swings or irritability
Loss of confidence and self-esteem
Overwhelm and emotional exhaustion
Physical changes to the body
Migraines and headaches
Bladder problems
And so many more
Now imagine experiencing all that while teaching, managing behaviour, attending meetings, and juggling marking, all while pretending everything’s fine.
It’s no wonder so many talented, passionate teachers start to feel burnt out or even walk away from the profession altogether, not because they don’t love teaching, but because they don’t get the support or understanding they need during this phase of life.
Knowing what is happening to your body changes everything. Awareness gives you back a sense of control, helps you communicate what you need and reminds you that you’re not alone or “failing.” You’re simply going through a transition, one that deserves compassion, information and care.
That’s exactly what I talk about in this week’s podcast episode. I share how perimenopause has affected my life, my teaching career and ultimately my decision to leave the classroom. Plus what I’ve learned since that could make a difference for others still in it.
And if this resonates, please share it with a friend or colleague who might need to hear it. Because when we start talking about perimenopause openly, we make it easier for more women to get the help they need and stay in the jobs and lives they love.
If you’d like to connect with others who are on the same journey, join The Teacher’s Compass Facebook Community.
Thanks so much for being here. I can’t wait to support you.
Louise Schwartz
Former music teacher with over 20 years of experience working in primary, middle and SEND schools in the UK. A few years ago, Louise was struggling - mentally, emotionally and professionally. That’s when the idea for The Teacher’s Compass began to take shape. She wanted to create a space where teachers could reconnect, feel valued and know that they’re not alone.
Contact Louise on her social media channels
