PMT running my life, does anything make it better?

[Om1528]

In the week before my period I am awful. Angry, upset, sentimental, tearful. I can be horrifically unreasonable. In those moments I absolutely feel I am right even though there’s this black cloud over me. I am so unmotivated, I usually have a clean home and I’m on top of everything but in that week I just feel like it falls apart. Once it passes I am like a different person again.

I have spoken to my GP. Not much help. Started some meds which did help a bit but the generally shit of that week is still there. I feel so low. I don’t think peri as had recent check and no signs.

How do people get through it? Is there anything to make it any eaiser?

Hormones help. Contraceptive pill or HRT depending on your age.

You may have PMMD, which is a more severe version if PMS. Have you tried antidepressants? If so for how long? ADs take up to 8 weeks to get working, so you need to give it time. Also trying the pill or something like a mirena coil can help.

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/premenstrual-syndrome/expert-answers/pmdd/faq-20058315

Look up PMDD.
HRT or SSRIs help some people.

I never completely solved it but things that definitely make a difference for me, are the things no one wants to hear and we should be doing anyway for health.

Refined sugar is evil. My moods and energy levels are so much better when I cut it out altogether. It does get easier after the first week or so.

Exercise helps a lot too.

Reduced animal fats and lots of veg.

Eat little and often and never get hungry. I always carry nuts.

Stress is a big thing for me. It's hard to know which triggers which, but my PMS is definitely worse when I'm feeling under pressure.

Contraceptive pill for me. Stopped the massive emotional roller-coaster I was on every month, and also stopped my very heavy periods (so heavy couldn't leave my house safely for best part of a week).

Life is much much much improved!

Did try some other meds first, but this is the one that solved everything for me. Long may it last!