Premenstrual syndrome, PMS, can cause a plethora of mental symptoms and signs. These can include mood swings, depression, anxiety and insomnia. The mental symptoms of PMS can be especially difficult as they tend to affect your mood and impact relationships and work. Dealing with them can help you take back in control of your life.
Instructions
1. Make an appointment with your doctor. Advise your doctor as soon as possible if you notice any mental symptoms of PMS, such as depression or anxiety. He can recommend medications that may helping you to cope better.
2. Take medications as directed by your physician. Typical medicinal treatments for the mental symptoms of PMS are directed at treating the cause of the symptoms. Antidepressants can help improve your mood, while oral contraceptives prevent hormonal swings that cause mental fluctuations, according to the Mayo Clinic. Sleep medication may be prescribed if you are having difficulty sleeping.
3. Get plenty of exercise. According to Melissa Conrad Stoppler, M.D., exercise is a natural mood booster. You should getting at least 30 minutes of exercise most days to regulate moods long term and improve sleep.
4. Reduce your stress level. Try yoga or meditation to help gain control of your mind and body. Learning cope with stress can reduce the severity of your symptoms.
5. Make dietary changes. Reducing salt, alcohol and caffeine intake can help control symptoms of PMS, including mental symptoms such as depression and anxiety, according to the Mayo Clinic, which also recommends taking a multivitamin.
6. Record your symptoms and progression in a notebook. Make notes each day about how you are feeling and any difficulties you are having. If you continue to notice the mental symptoms of PMS emerging, or if they get worse, contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Tags: mental symptoms, depression anxiety, your doctor, according Mayo, according Mayo Clinic