How to Live with PMS

By eHow Health Editor

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If you are having one of those days when everything seems to be going wrong, you may be in the throes of PMS. Coping takes an extensive arsenal of skills to combat the pain, aggression and discomfort PMS causes. Fortunately, there are techniques you can use to minimize the pain, learning how to live with PMS.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Symptoms calendar

Understand Premenstrual Syndrome

Step1

Educate yourself about the causes of PMS. Buy "PMS: Solving the Puzzle—Sixteen Causes of Premenstrual Syndrome and What to Do About It" by Linaya Hahn (see Resources below). This book may help to debunk common PMS myths.

Step2

Recognize that PMS is caused by the fluctuation of hormones during the second half of your menstrual cycle.

Step3

Let your friends and family know how you are feeling. Anger, irritability, moodiness and fatigue are all common to PMS. Your loved ones may be able to offer additional support to help you live with your discomfort.

Step4

Realize that PMS is primarily a result of the imbalanced estrogen levels in your body.

Uncover Ways to Take Control of PMS

Step1

Consult a mental-health counselor if you are feeling extreme levels of hopelessness. Many women report that their feelings of desperation intensify a few days prior to menstruation.

Step2

Find something to laugh about. Laughter naturally increases the serotonin levels in your brain. Consider watching a funny movie or going to a live comedy show to alter your mood.

Step3

Exercise regularly to release stress and improve your overall sense of well-being.

Step4

Mark your calendar for about a week before you expect to begin menstruating. Avoid making decisions during this time, as emotional changes could make you prone to irrational and impulsive actions.

Step5

Change your diet to combat PMS. Eating fiber-rich foods and limiting refined starches may help to keep your blood sugar balanced.

Step6

Join a PMS support group to share experiences and feelings with other women. You may even learn some helpful home remedies for dealing with the condition.