No Appointment Necessary

Are Women Being Misdiagnosed With Anxiety Instead of Menopause?


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In this episode, Cherry Healey and Dr Amir Khan talk about anxiety, perimenopause and menopause, and how shifting hormones can completely hijack your mental health.


Dr Amir explains the significant role of oestrogen, progesterone, serotonin, dopamine, GABA and cortisol in menopausal anxiety, why so many women are misdiagnosed with depression or generalised anxiety disorder, and what to do if you’re told “it’s just your hormones”. They unpack HRT, lifestyle changes, CBT, SSRIs, beta blockers, breathwork and practical tools for managing panic attacks… PLUS, when to push for a second opinion.


CONTENT NOTE: This episode includes a brief reference to suicide in a medical context. If you’re experiencing difficult thoughts and in need of support, you can speak to Samaritans on 116 123 or visit samaritans.org.


The content of No Appointment Necessary is for general information — it's not a substitute for a personalised medical assessment. Always consider your own medical history and personal circumstances before acting on any health information.


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Have a question, feedback, or want to suggest a topic? Email: [email protected]


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Chapters:


02:00 – Why today’s episode is all about anxiety


02:19 – Cherry’s perimenopause anxiety story & night-time panic attacks


04:23 – Hormones, brain chemicals & what actually causes menopausal anxiety


10:20 – Misdiagnosis, medical misogyny & asking for HRT


19:07 – What is generalised anxiety disorder (GAD)?


25:58 – Medication for anxiety: SSRIs, beta blockers & side effects


29:29 – Lifestyle changes, herbal remedies & breathwork explained


31:39 – Panic attacks: what they feel like & how to get out of one


40:48 – ChatGPT Q&A, white-coat blood pressure anxiety & winter daylight health hack


A Viral Tribe Production


Developed and produced by James Carpenter & Jo Scarratt-Jones

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No Appointment NecessaryBy Viral Tribe Entertainment