During your menstrual cycle, you might have experienced those moments — a sudden surge of emotions, a tear that threatens to escape, or an inexplicable sense of irritability. It's almost as if your emotions are on a rollercoaster, and you're just along for the ride. Welcome to the world of emotions before your period — a common PMS symptom that has left many of us wondering, "Why am I so emotional before my period?"

how your cycle affects your emotions

Your menstrual cycle involves a complex interplay of hormones that greatly influence your emotional well-being. At the heart of this interplay are estrogen and progesterone. These hormones have the ability to impact neurotransmitters in your brain, including serotonin and dopamine, which are essential for regulating your mood and emotions.

why do I get emotional before my period?

As your menstrual cycle progresses, so do your hormone levels. Right before your period, estrogen and progesterone levels plummet, which can lead to a drop in serotonin — the "feel-good" neurotransmitter. This dip in serotonin can leave you with emotional symptoms like anxiety, irritability, or mood changes. Additionally, these hormonal changes can affect your brain's stress response, making you more sensitive to stressors and less able to cope.

strategies for managing mood swings before your period

While you can't completely escape the hormonal fluctuations of your cycle, there are lifestyle changes and strategies you can embrace to navigate the emotional symptoms with grace and resilience.

1. practice emotional self-care during menstruation: Treat yourself to activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Whether it's curling up with a good book, indulging in a bubble bath, or spending quality time with loved ones, prioritize activities that lighten your mood.

2. embrace mindfulness and meditation: Mindfulness is a powerful tool to anchor your emotions and focus on your mental health. Engage in deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga to stay present and centered, even when the emotional tides are high.

3. nourish your body with balanced nutrition: If you have ever asked yourself, “Why am I so tired on my period,” what you eat can significantly impact your emotional well-being and fatigue levels. Opt for nutrient-rich foods that support your brain health, such as omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish, leafy greens, and whole grains.

4. get moving: Physical activity and workouts on your period aren't just great for your body – it's a natural mood regulator. Engaging in regular exercise boosts the release of endorphins, those wonderful chemicals that lift your spirits and ease stress.

5. seek support and connection: You're not alone in this journey. Reach out to friends, family, or support groups to share your experiences and find comfort in knowing that others are navigating similar emotional mood swings.

when to seek professional help:

While mood swings during periods are one of the common premenstrual symptoms, it's important to recognize when your emotions are becoming overwhelming or interfering with your daily life. If your emotional changes are severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms, consider seeking the guidance of a mental health professional. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and there's no shame in prioritizing your emotional well-being.

embracing emotional changes before your period

While periods may indeed make you emotional, keep in mind that these emotions are a natural part of your cycle. By understanding the hormonal changes playing within you and adopting proactive strategies, you can face the emotional symptoms with resilience. Empower yourself with self-care, mindfulness, and a supportive community, and know that you have the tools to navigate the emotional journey before your period.

Whether you're experiencing emotional changes before your period for the first time or seeking new ways to manage these fluctuations, you're on a unique journey that deserves understanding and self-compassion. Here at Thinx, we encourage you to celebrate the multifaceted symptoms of emotions that make you beautifully human.

At Thinx, we strive to provide our readers with the most up-to-date, objective, and research-based information. Our content is crafted by experienced contributors who ground their work in research and data. Articles contain trusted third-party sources that are either directly linked within the text or listed at the bottom to lead readers to the original source.

Sources:

DrLam Coaching. Better Ways To Manage Mood Swings With Period Problems.

https://www.drlamcoaching.com/blog/manage-mood-swings-with-period-problems/ 

Healthline. Depression During Your Period? Here’s Why It Happens and How to Cope.

https://www.healthline.com/health/depression/menstrual-depression#how-to-cope 

Dr. Brighten. How Hormones Affect Mood Throughout Your Menstrual Cycle

https://drbrighten.com/how-hormones-affect-mood-throughout-menstrual-cycle/#:~:text=As%20estrogen%20levels%20increase%2C%20you,feel%20more%20social%20and%20happy

by Team Thinx