Around that time of the month, our brain chemistry changes due to a shift in our hormonal balance and an increase in certain hormones. Depending on our emotional, psychological, and physical health going in, some of these shifts are more dramatic than others. Common symptoms of PMS include mood swings, anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, fatigue, crying spells, anger, and feelings of worthlessness.
When dealing with PMS-related anxiety, or any anxiety for that matter, always start with your diet. Consider getting on an anti-inflammatory diet that’s rich in fruit and vegetables, but low in animal products. Around the time of your period, it’s also advised that you stay away from caffeine and alcohol, which can significantly heighten depression and anxiety. Furthermore, giving in to every food impulse or anxious thought you’re having might not be in your best interest when you’re not feeling your best.
If you experience anxiety during your period, some doctors suggest coming off the pill and finding a more hormone-friendly alternative. Many doctors note that when their patients stop taking the pill, estrogen and testosterone levels go back up. With that healthy hormonal upturn, anxiety and other unsavory symptoms—like low self-esteem—tend to drop.
The truth is, completely eradicating anxiety from your system may not be realistic. But there are ways to better prepare for it, making significant relief possible. Ultimately, anxiety relief may very well start with prevention. Again, a change to your lifestyle habits can lead to a major improvement in any and all symptoms you deal with during your menstrual cycle. So start with one of the places you have the most control. In other words, it’s time to cultivate healthy habits outside of your cycle with your cycle in mind.
However, if PMS-induced anxiety disrupts your life, it’s always worth talking to someone about it. Not to mention, you might be dealing with something more serious that’s being left unaddressed. If the drastic emotional changes linger, even lasting far beyond your period, you may be dealing with an underlying medical and/or psychological issue known as premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). It’s often seen as a super-PMS, but there is nothing super about it.