MANAGING MOOD SWINGS...WITHOUT HORMONES!

"We Can’t Stop the Waves - But we can learn to Surf"
Jonathan Kabat-Zinn, Wherever You Go There You are: Mindfulness Meditation in Every Day Life

Have you been crabby one minute, then overly sentimental the next? Then welcome to the world of mood swings in midlife! Such mood swings are a common occurrence for many women, beginning as early as our mid-forties. The good news is that the majority of mood swings during perimenopause and menopause are caused by hormonal fluctuations and they are literally just passing through.

However, I have experienced mood swings myself and know first hand how disturbing and debilitating they can be. When I first experienced mood swings, they seemed to come on suddenly without warning and often were not attached to any particular trigger. I was perfectly calm one minute and felt out of control the next. Sound familiar?

Mood swings in midlife not only affect each of us separately, but they also affect everyone around us. When you are on that last nerve, your children and coworkers may be describing your behavior as "mean-o-pause". Even the dog is hiding from you.

So, what can you do to ease mood swings in midlife without taking hormones? The following are a few suggestions:

Aerobic exercise- aerobic exercise releases serotonin and endorphins, which are brain chemicals that positively affect moods. Research has consistently revealed that fit women report significantly less depression, anxiety and mood swings than non-fit women. Start by taking a 30 minute walk each day.

Chamomile- chamomile is known for its soothing qualities and is helpful during times of stress and anxiety. The dosage is 500mg of the dried herb in capsule form taken up to three times daily. Or ½ to 1 teaspoon liquid extract in 3oz. of water once daily.

Aromatherapy Essential Oils- Lavender and chamomile for relaxation. Bergamot for depression. These oils are most effective when used in a warm bath.

Chasteberry- the recommended dosage is 5-15 drops of chasteberry tincture mixed with three ounces of water taken three times daily.

Vitex- this is the fruit of the chaste tree. The recommended dosage is 200 to 500mg tablets taken twice daily.

Bach Flower- compounded to soothe various emotional situations. It is best to have a Naturopath physician prescribe and mix the compounds.

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This is by no means an exhaustive list. In the book, Feelin’ Hot?, Rebecca discusses the importance of vitamin and mineral supplementation such as calcium, magnesium and the B vitamins. So take a deep breath, take a walk, take an aromatherapy bath, take your supplements, and most of all, take time out for yourself!

Rebecca J. Hulem has 28 years experience in the medical community and is the author of Feelin’ Hot and contributing author to two additional books. To sign up for her free menopause newsletter or for further information, please visit The Menopause Expert.