Why Do I Always Cry Before My Period??

If you've ever found yourself feeling irritable, overwhelmed, or suddenly weepy in the days leading up to your period, you're definitely not alone. These mood swings are one of the most common and well-known symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), a condition that affects a significant number of people who menstruate. While it's easy to brush off these emotional changes as something we just have to "deal with," there are ways to better understand, manage, and even alleviate PMS-related mood swings.

What’s Happening Emotionally During PMS?

To truly understand why moodiness strikes during PMS, it’s important to know what’s happening in the body. The hormonal changes leading up to your period play a huge role in the emotional shifts that occur during this time. Here's a quick breakdown:

1. Hormonal Fluctuations: During the second half of your menstrual cycle, after ovulation and before your period begins, your hormone levels—especially progesterone—rise and fall. These fluctuations can affect brain chemicals, like serotonin, that regulate mood. When serotonin levels dip, feelings of irritability, sadness, or even anger can surface.

2. Physical Symptoms: It’s not just about what’s going on emotionally; physical symptoms like bloating, fatigue, and cramps can also contribute to a sense of discomfort and emotional instability. Feeling physically unwell can often make it harder to handle stress or interact with others calmly.

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4. Signs You May Be Experiencing PMS-Related Mood Swings

   While it’s normal to experience some mood changes in the lead-up to your period, the emotional side of PMS can sometimes feel intense. Common emotional symptoms include:

   • Irritability or anger: A low tolerance for frustration, which can make you more easily upset or angry.
   • Sadness or depression: Feelings of sadness or a sense of emotional heaviness that might come out of nowhere.
   • Anxiety or stress: Increased nervousness, anxiety, or feelings of being overwhelmed.
   • Tearfulness or weepiness: A tendency to cry over things that may feel more exaggerated than usual.
   • Social withdrawal: Feeling like you want to isolate yourself from others, even though you might not always know why.
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How to Manage Mood Swings During PMS

While we can't completely control our hormonal fluctuations, there are strategies to help manage the emotional side of PMS and feel more balanced during this time of the month:

1. Maintain a Healthy Diet: Eating well-balanced meals can help stabilize blood sugar and keep your energy levels up. Try to avoid excessive sugar and caffeine, as these can exacerbate mood swings and make you feel jittery or sluggish. Opt for nutrient-rich foods, including whole grains, lean proteins, and plenty of fruits and vegetables.

2. Exercise Regularly: Physical activity can be a great mood booster. Exercise increases the production of endorphins (the body’s natural “feel-good” chemicals) and can help reduce stress. Even a brisk walk, yoga, or stretching can make a difference.

3. Prioritize Sleep: Lack of sleep can exacerbate irritability and moodiness, so ensure you're getting enough rest. Aim for 7-9 hours per night and establish a bedtime routine to help you relax before going to sleep.

4. Practice Relaxation Techniques: Deep breathing and mindfulness exercises can help reduce stress and bring you back into balance. 

5. Engage in Positive Social Activities: While it might be tempting to stay inside and hide away, spending time with supportive friends or engaging in activities you enjoy can help lift your spirits. Social connection can also provide the emotional boost you need to cope with PMS mood swings.

When to Seek Help

For some, PMS symptoms can be so severe that they interfere with daily life. If you find that your mood swings are causing significant distress, or if they are coupled with other symptoms like extreme fatigue, depression, or anxiety that feel unmanageable, it may be time to seek professional help.

Here are some signs that it might be time to talk to your doctor:

• Severe mood swings: If your mood shifts are severe enough to cause significant disruption to your relationships, work, or overall well-being.
• Depression or anxiety: Feeling overwhelmed with sadness or anxiety that doesn’t seem to improve or go away.
• Physical symptoms that worsen: If bloating, cramps, or fatigue are impacting your quality of life.
• PMDD: A more severe form of PMS, called premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), can cause extreme mood swings, irritability, and even suicidal thoughts. PMDD requires specific treatment, so it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider if you suspect you have it.

Final Thoughts

Experiencing emotional ups and downs around your period is completely normal, and it’s something most menstruating people go through. Understanding that these mood swings are linked to hormonal changes can help take some of the mystery and frustration out of the experience. By adopting healthy habits like exercise, diet, and relaxation techniques, you can better manage the emotional side of PMS and feel more in control of your mood.

However, if your symptoms feel overwhelming, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional support. Remember, you're not alone in this, and there’s help available to ensure you feel your best every day of the month.