Background:
During the menopausal transition, sleep disturbance is common but poorly understood. Given that
chronic sleep disruption is linked to major health risks, this places many women at a long-term
health and wellbeing disadvantage. Although hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can help some women obtain better sleep, it is not an option for many. Positive psychology offers a promising non- pharmacological approach, as its constructs are modifiable, low-cost, and linked to better sleep in
non- menopausal populations. Across a series of studies, this PhD will examine how positive
psychology can help understand and improve menopause-related sleep difficulties, with the primary aim of fostering healthier, more resilient, and thriving communities.
Methods:
Study 1 (cross-sectional survey study) will test the associations between positive psychological
traits and sleep, including menopausal symptom severity as a potential mediator. Study 2 (longitudinal ecological momentary assessment study) will determine the daily relationships between positive psychological states, menopause symptoms, and sleep. Study 3 (pilot intervention study) will evaluate the feasibility, acceptability and preliminary effects of single and combined positive psychology strategies for improving sleep during the menopause.
The findings will inform the development of accessible, non-pharmacological strategies to improve
sleep during menopause, supporting the promotion of women’s wellbeing and enabling women to
remain active, healthy contributors within thriving communities.