Emma Willis Reflects on Perimenopause Impact on Mental Health Amid Career Peak

Emma Willis, 50, has spoken candidly about the challenges of perimenopause, describing how her hormones dropping led to unexpected low moods and increased anxiety. The television presenter, who has recently taken on a prominent role as a host for 'Strictly Come Dancing,' revealed that she felt unprepared for the mental and physical changes associated with perimenopause.

Willis, known for her generally positive demeanor, said the sudden onset of low mood was particularly confusing. "The first thing I had was just low mood. I'm not really a low person. I'm pretty chipper most of the time, so it just really seemed to come out of nowhere and I didn't know why," she explained. She also identified as a "chronic people-pleaser" and prone to anxiety, noting, "I also pick myself apart."

These personal struggles have coincided with a high point in her professional life. Over the past decade, Willis has hosted numerous popular shows, including 'Big Brother,' 'The Voice UK,' 'Love Is Blind UK,' and 'The Circle.' She expressed pride in her extensive television resume and her continued success in primetime roles in her fifties. "Why should it not be normal? And why is it even a thing?" she questioned regarding ageism in the industry.

In 2023, Willis had previously mentioned experiencing perimenopausal brain fog, which affected her ability to recall words and complete sentences. She has strived to be open with her children about menopause, even as her daughter navigates her teenage years. "Touch wood, she's fantastic at the moment, but she's like, 'So we're both kind of feeling a little bit all over the place?' My son is just like, 'Thank God I'm not a girl,'" she recalled.

As her children have become more independent, Willis has found more time to focus on her own well-being. She acknowledged a shift in her approach to self-care, learning to prioritize her mental health, influenced by her husband, Matt. "I've always been a people-pleaser and now I think, sometimes, I probably shouldn't have been," she stated. "But I'm getting better at saying no without apologising profusely."

Willis also noted a growing sense of self-assurance that has replaced earlier feelings of unworthiness. She finds inspiration in other women in their fifties thriving in television, such as Gabby Logan and Davina McCall. "With age you realise you actually are quite capable," she said. "There's always this little voice in your head going, 'Oh, it's not going to last too long, don't get too comfortable.' But actually, it has been 20 years. Maybe it's going to be all right!"

Despite being described as a "safe pair of hands" for 'Strictly,' the new presenting team, including co-hosts Johannes Radebe and Josh Widdicombe, has faced scrutiny. While their on-screen chemistry has been noted, the show has not yet achieved the hoped-for ratings boost for the BBC. The presenters have adapted their roles, with Willis and Radebe initially discussing dances with judges, and Widdicombe joining Radebe later to chat with contestants. Fan feedback has suggested Widdicombe appears less nervous in his later role. Following early criticism, Willis shared an Instagram post with a quote that read, "You'll get judged either way, so may as well pick the fun option."