How many times have you dismissed a surge of frustration, sadness, or heartache as “just the hormones”? I know I’ve done it. In fact, I use mood swings as a tool for predicting when my cycle is on its way. The other day, I was scrolling through reels on my phone and found myself tearing up at a random guy’s best man speech. And then I headed to the bathroom and tore open a pad.
But when I find myself feeling down right before (or during) my period, I’ve noticed a disturbing trend: I brush it off. Whatever is bothering me must not be as big of a deal as I’m making it out to be, right? (Hint: wrong.)
While this issue extends beyond just emotions from our periods, the harmful effect of dismissing them is amplified around the time of our cycle. We feel the need to be on our game 24/7 to avoid seeming “weak.” But the truth is, it is more empowering to explore our feelings, take care of ourselves, and embrace our emotions. Feel what you feel, and don’t be afraid to express it!
Although it’s true that “that time of the month” brings a flux of hormones that do affect our emotions, that doesn’t mean they are any less valid! Even though period hormones can intensify feelings, it doesn’t mean those feelings are irrational or unworthy of attention. You are entitled to every thought going through your head.
Society can push this rhetoric that women experiencing emotions are “dramatic” or “overreacting” – and in an attempt to avoid these labels, we can end up minimizing our feelings and gaslighting ourselves into ignoring them. But it’s time to stop! You don’t have to brush your emotions under the rug just because you’re feeling something at the same time that you’re menstruating. The idea that women should invalidate their own emotions to stay composed or “be strong” is total baloney.
Emotions are never irrational. They arise naturally in response to your life and experiences, even if you’re on your period. A friend once told me that our emotions are valid simply because we endure them. We don’t feel things for no reason. Something made us react that way, even if it seems trivial. Just feeling some type of way is legitimate and valid, even if you’re bleeding while it’s happening.
Ladies, it is essential to our mental health to validate our feelings, especially in a world that tries so hard to keep them down. We must block out the haters and feel fully – even if it means shedding tears over some stranger’s meaningless TikTok. It’s not the hormones talking; it’s you: a beautiful, strong, soulful woman who happens to be shedding the lining of her uterus. Emotions are a strength, not a flaw, and it’s time we start thinking that way.
So get out there and feel your period emotions in all their bloody fullness. Remember to give yourself a break, too – journal, talk to your loved ones, take a hot bath, and do some self-care. And of course, a sweet treat never hurts either!