By LaShaun Williams
Have you ever swung a bathroom door with a little more force than necessary, or hollered at some bystander with more decibels than needed in your voice — simply because your hormones are raging and you can’t control the natural PMS process that governs your womanly system? Yes, you have. Of course, you have. And, if you think you “haven’t,” then you definitely have it bad — because you have and you might have gotten so used it that you don’t even realize anymore that you have! But, never fear. Here’s how you can avoid a case of “the-PMS-haves,” especially in a professional context… like, say… two feet away from your gnarly boss.
Your boss says: “Where are the reports I requested yesterday?! They were supposed to be on my desk first thing this morning. If you have too much on your plate, let me know and I’ll give the work to someone who can handle it.”
Your PMS wants you to respond: “If you checked your e-mail, you’d know that I filed the reports last night so you’d be able to find them without sifting through that unorganized, pile of neglected paperwork on your desk. I can handle my job. The real question is can you handle yours?”
Symptoms of PMS are triggered by hormonal changes, chemical changes in the brain, depression, stress and poor eating habits. While we have no control over our hormones or the chemicals our brains release, depression, stress and diet are factors we can influence.
Most cases of depression are undiagnosed. If you notice that you are feeling down pre and post-period for no apparent reason, you may want to speak with a doctor. In the case that you are diagnosed with depression, you will have several treatment options available.
Stress often comes with our busy schedules, lofty goals and draining love lives. Relaxation is a great way to relieve stress. Twice a week, treat yourself to some quality alone time. Grab a bottle of champagne, turn off your phone and run a warm, bubble bath. Trim the fat, too. Limit time with needy friends and family members, and put a curfew on work.
Finally, your diet is totally up to you. Wake up early enough for a solid breakfast. It should be one of your heavier meals for the day. A bacon, egg and cheese sandwich, a piece of fruit and a glass of naturally sweetened juice is a balanced way to get your day going. Nuts, yogurt, veggie sticks and fruit are all great snack options. Remember to drink lots of water, too.
Your PMS may not completely disappear, but it will definitely be less severe.
