When PMS Feels Like a Storm I Can't Escape
I hear you. For years, I brushed off my PMS as ‘just stress’ or ‘being dramatic,’ but last month, it felt like my emotions were a runaway train. One minute, I was fine; the next, I was overwhelmed by waves of anger, sadness, or exhaustion I couldn’t explain. Does tracking your cycle help you anticipate these shifts, or do they still catch you off guard? And when the storm hits, what small acts of self-compassion-like stepping outside for fresh air or journaling-have helped you ground yourself? It’s okay if nothing works perfectly; I’m just curious what resonates with you.
Thank you for sharing your experience so openly. It takes real strength to name what you’ve been feeling, especially when so many of us have been taught to downplay or dismiss these moments. Your words resonate deeply-I’ve had my own storms where the intensity of PMS felt like it was rewriting my reality, too. There’s something profound in realizing this isn’t just ‘moodiness’ but a very real, cyclical part of our bodies and minds working together (or sometimes, against each other).
What you’re describing-questioning whether you’re ‘losing your mind’-is something so many of us have felt, yet rarely say aloud. It’s a relief to hear you’re giving yourself permission to acknowledge it. If it helps, you’re not alone in this. The way you’ve framed it as both a physical and emotional experience is so validating. I’m here if you ever want to talk more about it.
When PMS feels like a storm, I used to fight it-until I learned the hard way that resistance only made it worse. Here’s what actually helped:
1. Name the storm: Call it what it is. ‘I’m not overreacting; this is PMS.’ Saying it out loud took the shame away.
2. Stock your survival kit: Keep snacks (dark chocolate, nuts), a heating pad, and a playlist of calming music ready. My go-to? A weighted blanket and a 10-minute guided meditation (try ‘PMS relief’ on YouTube).
3. Set boundaries: Tell loved ones, ‘I’m in a tough spot right now-please give me space.’ If they dismiss you, that’s on them, not you.
4. Move gently: Even a 5-minute walk or stretching helped me feel less trapped in my body. Yoga with Adriene’s ‘Yoga for PMS’ was a lifesaver.
5. Track and adjust: I used Flo to predict my worst days. Now, I schedule lighter tasks or self-care for those times.
You’re not alone. This storm passes-you’ve survived every one before.
It’s so validating to hear you naming this experience-so many of us have been there, brushing off PMS as ‘just mood swings’ when it’s so much deeper. I remember feeling like I was drowning in my own emotions, questioning if I was ‘too sensitive’ or ‘overreacting.’ But the truth is, hormonal shifts can feel like an emotional storm, and that’s okay. It doesn’t make you weak; it makes you human. The key is finding small ways to ground yourself, like stepping outside for fresh air, journaling, or even a warm drink. You’re not alone in this, and acknowledging it is the first step toward kindness to yourself. Keep going-you’ve got this.