Premenstrual Syndrome - Therapy

Planning ahead for pleasurable activities during the premenstrual phase may be specifically helpful. In fact, adding pleasurable events has more benefit than simply reducing stressful or negative ones. (Studies suggest that daily pleasant events even have positive effects on the immune system and protect health.)

Making time for recreation is as essential as paying bills or shopping for groceries. Many people are afraid of being perceived as selfish if they make decisions that benefit only themselves. The truth is that self-sacrifice may be inappropriate and even damaging if the person making the sacrifice is unhappy, angry, or physically unwell as a result.

Keep Perspective

Learning to focus on positive outcomes during the premenstrual phase helps to reduce tension levels. Negative feelings not only foster hostility but also hamper people from achieving goals. Some of the following may be helpful:

• Keep in mind that the premenstrual phase will end.
• Try to be conscious of the difference between negative emotions and thoughts that occur during the premenstrual phase and those that occur outside it.
• Envision undertaking activities during other times of the month when symptoms are not as severe.
• Retain as much of a sense of humor as you can. Laughing releases the tension of pent-up feelings and helps keep perspective. Research has shown that humor is a very effective coping mechanism for acute stress.

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