Anxiety during periods

[40andlovelife]

I am not generally an anxious person unless I have had a drink. I only drink once per week now because of this. Recently noticed that when I am having my period I am highly anxious. Heart feels like it’s beating really fast, racing thoughts, trouble sleeping, etc for a few days. I am 43 and have noticed changes to my periods over the past 2 years ( heavier and they range from 24 to a 28 day cycle now when before they were bang on 28 days). Has anyone else experienced this anxiety? Is there a treatment? I wouldn’t want to take anxiety medications full time so am really wondering if anyone has had a medication just at this time of the month? Or anything else that has helped. Thank you

Why not just not drink at all?

Ah I should have been clearer. If I drink once per week it doesn’t lead to anxiety, only if I go over once per week. I haven’t drank for 3 weeks. The anxiety only occurs now during my period.

Its more than likely hormonal as it’s happening same time every month / cycle.
Might be worth speaking to gp to see if they can help.

Oh wow, are you me? I am exactly the same, same age, same changes in periods and crippling mental health / mood symptoms during my period. I also get a migraine on day 1 of my period. Last period migraine lasted 5 days!
I did go to GP as I just couldn't cope with it and I hate to say it but they were useless. My blood tests showed nothing.
I never drank much but have cut out alcohol now pretty much completely.

Have you had an issue with drink in the past op?

Bear with me…there is a reason I ask

Not Really. I suppose during covid I got to drinking about 3 times per week. This obviously was not ideal. I do feel the pressure to drink from family and friends though so I am very conscious about making sure I don’t get pressured. I do read a lot about addiction to alcohol. I am very conscious of how quickly it can take hold so it’s my way of always keeping up to date with how shit it is for you

So for example. I have been to the gym this morning . Usually a really intense workout makes me feel calm and great. But I am still full of the physical feelings of anxiety. Day 3 of period.

Perimenopause. Take all the vitamins, catch up on sleep when you can.