What are Mood Swings ?
For some of us, the emotionally bumpy ride that is menopause comes complete with mood swings that have you blubbering one minute, pissed off over dishes left in the sink (again!) the next, and having a full-blown panic attack over thoughts you were once able to manage more easily.
Mood swings are, as their name suggests, rapid changes in your mood. Picture this: You’re feeling totally fine, going about your day. Everything is great. You walk by the laundry machines, and you see a huge basket of unfolded laundry, which your partner was supposed to handle. You know you should just remind the guilty party that it’s their turn (again). But you totally lose it. Sound familiar? Mood swing.
75% OF WOMEN GOING THROUGH IT WILL EXPERIENCE THEM.
Why It Happens ?
Your hormone levels are fluctuating wildly–picture puberty in reverse. You may feel sad, irritable, unmotivated, angry, anxious, or panicked. Hormonal changes during menopause can cause mood swings by affecting serotonin levels, Serotonin is a brain chemical that promotes feelings of well-being and happiness. Falling estrogen and progesterone levels can trigger mood swings.
What can you do?
There are remedies to combat mood swings. Here are some of our favorites:
- Eat a healthy diet with plenty of vegetables.
- Exercise regularly. The type of exercise isn’t important. The best type of exercise is the one you’ll do!
- Avoid excess alcohol.
- Spend quality time with family and friends.
- Practice mindfulness, meditation, and/or yoga.
