Riding the Emotional Roller Coaster: Understanding Mood Swings in Perimenopause

Roller coaster going down with clouds in the background

Riding the Emotional Roller Coaster: Understanding Mood Swings in Perimenopause

Roller coaster going down with clouds in the background

Are you experiencing mood swings that rival the wildest roller coaster ride? Welcome to perimenopause, the phase of life that can turn your emotions into a whirlwind. You’re not alone if you’re feeling like a different person these days! If you are someone who already experiences anxiety and depression, you may notice an uptick in your symptoms, especially with your cycle.

Perimenopause is like a hormonal roller coaster – fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels can wreak havoc on your mood regulation system. It’s not uncommon to feel like you’re on an emotional seesaw, swinging from irritability to sadness and back again.

While hormonal changes are a significant player in the mood swing game, they’re not the only ones. Stress, lack of sleep, and lifestyle factors can amplify your emotional roller coaster. Recognizing these triggers is a crucial step in managing your mood swings effectively.

Prioritize activities that help you unwind and de-stress. This might include yoga, meditation, deep breathing exercises, or simply taking a time out. Don’t underestimate the impact of a good night’s sleep and regular exercise on your mood stability.

Practicing mindfulness can be a game-changer when it comes to managing mood swings. Mindfulness techniques, such as meditation and journaling, can help you become more aware of your emotions and thought patterns. This self-awareness can empower you to respond to your mood swings more skillfully.

Support and Connection

Share your emotional journey with friends or a support group of women going through perimenopause. Sometimes, just knowing you’re not alone in this experience can provide comfort and reassurance. Talking about your feelings with loved ones can also help them understand what you’re going through and offer their support.

If your mood swings become overwhelming or interfere significantly with your daily life, consider seeking help from a mental health professional. Therapy or counseling can provide you with effective strategies for managing your emotions and improving your overall well-being.

In the wild ride of perimenopause, mood swings are just one of the twists and turns. By understanding the factors at play, practicing self-care, and seeking support when needed, you can navigate this roller coaster with resilience and grace.

If you’re looking for a holistic approach to managing your changing hormones in perimenopause and menopause, I help women navigate both the physical and emotional aspects of this hormonal shift so you can go from feeling exhausted, foggy, and irritable to clear, confident, and energized, in a way you can keep up with.

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Written by Allison Poole, PT, MPT, WHC

Allison takes a modern approach to women's hormone and pelvic health by taking the hard work and confusion out of caring for your body. She combines her 20 years of clinical expertise, compassion and personal experience to help women navigate perimenopause and menopause with ease.

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