How Do I Treat PMS Mood Swings?

The symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) aren’t just physical in nature. You also may struggle with mood swings during this time in your menstrual cycle. You may deal with this by choosing to be patient and by increasing your aerobic exercise in an effort to improve your mood. Even changes in diet may help. Vitamin supplements and antidepressants also can help regulate your moods.

One of the most important ways to treat PMS mood swings is with understanding. As you await the approach of a new menstrual cycle, hormonal changes affect your moods. Understanding this, rather than thinking you are experiencing a mental health issue or simply behaving irrationally, may help. At this point, you can prepare for PMS each month by making important decisions before it begins and avoiding impulse decisions while you are experiencing mood swings. You also may work to surround yourself with caring, understanding friends and family members during this time.

Exercise often proves helpful for treating PMS mood swings. If you engage in regular aerobic exercise during this time, you may find that your moods improve, because exercise works as a natural antidepressant for many people. As an added benefit, you may find that exercise helps to relieve some of the physical symptoms of PMS, such a bloating. If you currently exercise, you may find it helpful to continue your normal workout routine during the premenstrual period. If you are new to exercise, you may feel most comfortable with starting slowly and gradually increasing the length of your workouts.

Adjusting your diet also may help you treat PMS mood swings. Though you may crave sugary treats, it is usually best to avoid them at this time. They may give you an initial jolt of energy and well being but then cause you to crash into fatigue and depression when the sugar rush wears off. It is usually best to avoid using alcohol to deal with your mood changes, as well. Instead, you may be better served by eating fruits and vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains.

Some vitamins are said to help regulate mood during the premenstrual period. For example, supplementing your diet with vitamin B6 and vitamin E may help. Likewise, taking supplements of minerals such as calcium, magnesium and zinc may help decrease mood swings. You may even try herbs such as evening primrose and chamomile for this purpose.

Home remedies for PMS mood swings don't always work. If you find that moodiness is having a significant adverse affect on your life and you can’t get relief on your own, see a doctor for help. He may recommend another treatment, including the use of prescription antidepressants.