Jekyll and Hyde

One of the worst things about menopause - besides the night sweats, hot flashes, weight gain, food cravings, and poor sleep - are the mood swings. Today is the perfect example. I feel so irritable and angry. Why am I angry? I really have no idea. I just know that I feel extremely grumpy. I have a headache, and it's a dark and stormy day, so I'm sure that's not helping.

I was prescribed hormonal replacement therapy nine months ago and it has helped a lot, especially with the hot flashes. The night sweats are better, too, but I still have to sleep with a fan on my nightstand. I can keep my weight in check if I work out consistently and watch what I eat, but I can tell when my hormones are going wonky when I feel like eating everything in the house and then some.

The mood swings, though. They can come out of nowhere. But I think that being able to acknowledge them, being aware when they are happening, helps. I can stay out of the path of my poor husband. I can warn him, "Hey, I'm just feeling really pissy today. It's not you. Just stay out of my path right now." I know it's hard for him to understand, and I honestly don't know how to explain it other than I've been possessed at the moment by a hormonal demon, stay clear, she'll be gone soon. Things that I can usually let slide or that wouldn't normally bother me DO. INTENSELY.

My first instinct is to have a glass of wine, but I know that won't help. Instead I try to do something that is quiet and relaxing, like read a book or watch a favorite show. Cuddling with the dogs helps a great deal, too. When it happens while I'm working, I take a break and go outside for fresh air or I make a cup of tea. It helps to know that the mood is temporary and will go away soon.

In fact, just sitting here writing this post has made me feel a lot better. I will get through this.

Now, it is time for a cup of tea and a book.