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How much do female hormones affect anxiety

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Posted 7/29/2014 2:17 AM (GMT 0)
I have situational anxiety and panic and I thought that it was starting to get better. Now it seems to be backsliding a little and I am close to getting my period. Connection or not?
Posted 7/29/2014 2:59 AM (GMT 0)
Fluctuating hormones most def can cause anxiety. Even in years when I was mostly panic/anxiety free, I would sometimes get anxiety as part of my Pms.

I've read to avoid caffeine and chocolate during this time. How cruel to eliminate chocolate during Pms, right? mad
Posted 7/29/2014 4:34 AM (GMT 0)
Hi lmazy and welcome.

I believe there is definitely a connection! You can do a search here and find literally dozens (if not more) posts on hormomes and anxiety...including PMS and menopause.

Check out our Resources on the top of the main page for great ideas on how to reduce anxiety though great coping skills.

Post with us anytime.;)

Scaredy Cat
Posted 7/29/2014 11:41 AM (GMT 0)
Hi Imazy, I noticed that with myself and like you just finding out there is a connection.
Posted 7/29/2014 10:02 PM (GMT 0)
My Dr okd me upping my ativan during this time. I just don't know if I should.
Posted 7/29/2014 10:42 PM (GMT 0)
It would be better than dealing with the anxiety if it gets too bad.
Posted 7/29/2014 11:27 PM (GMT 0)
Have you tried some herbal combos? Ie: Passion flower, hops, valerian
Posted 7/29/2014 11:29 PM (GMT 0)
I have not tried anything herbal. I have heard that mixing natural and benzos can be bad. I should try herbals first next time.
Posted 7/30/2014 7:43 PM (GMT 0)
If you are following your doctor's advice, then trust that you will be fine!







M.
Posted 7/31/2014 1:34 AM (GMT 0)
I once fired a Dr. for telling my wife hormones will not cause
anxiety, ridicules man. Peace

Larry ***
Posted 7/31/2014 2:46 PM (GMT 0)
I started lexapro 11 days ago and noticed a spike in my anxiety (panic attack first day taking it and then anxiety every day after). On Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday my anxiety seemed to be lifting and i was beginning to feel like myself and then Tuesday night it came back and has been bad since. I think i'm a few days before my period. So was wondering if that had something to do with it and if so hopefully it subsides when i get my period. (I've never wanted my period so bad).
Posted 7/31/2014 8:15 PM (GMT 0)
I have noticed since my hysterectomy my anxiety is much worse I am not sure if this is due to loosing all my female parts or the hormone pills I have to be on now
Other things have been really bad though so I can't really know what caused this to get so bad maybe it's a combination
Posted 8/2/2014 1:20 AM (GMT 0)
I feel the same way my anxiety comes back full swing week b4 period, I wake up middle of night with anxiety during this time. I thought it might be hormonal or perimenopause? Anyone have any advice? Thanks
Posted 8/2/2014 2:48 AM (GMT 0)
Hey there. I have been suffering from anxiety and panic attacks for 10 years. I have taken medication, natural/herbal, teas, yoga, you name it. I have logged my anxiety for years and it's all linked to hormones and my cycle. I didn't have anxiety during my pregnancies but right when I was done breast feeding I had it all come back. I'm on 100mg of Zoloft and I take Xanax as needed- which before and after my period I take it daily. Therapy has helped me understand and know that I am going to be ok and get through it- it simply sucks to have to live this way while you are feeling anxious. I am a mom of two and I want to feel normal for my kids, you know!? One to two weeks a month I feel normal and then other two to three weeks I feel anxious. I've always believed it was hormones. Best to you- as much as it sucks, it is nice to know I not alone. Peace and love.
Posted 8/2/2014 4:16 AM (GMT 0)
Hi PLL.,

Thank you for sharing! It is interesting to know that you have found such a clear connection between the cycles and the anxiety.

That is a good reminder to journal/track one's symptoms.

Using the coping skills in our Resources may help bring some relief during the rough times.

Post with us anytime for anxiety support!

Scaredy Cat
Posted 8/2/2014 2:20 PM (GMT 0)
I had a good day yesterday (day 12 on Lexapro), but at night the anxiety came back and I had trouble sleeping even with an ambien. I started my period this morning (early), so hopfully I can attribute the increased anxiety to that, and it will subside now that pms is over.
Posted 8/3/2014 5:29 PM (GMT 0)
Keaz,

It is a guessing game sometimes. I wish a doctor would just say. Yep that's exactly what it is! :) I too, believe my anxiety is worse before my period and sometimes during ovulation. I wish you strength to get through the hard times. Focus in the present and breathe- I find being in nature helps. I was on lexapro before the Zoloft and it worked wonderfully! I had to switch to Zoloft during my pregnancy. Best to you! PPL
Posted 8/3/2014 6:40 PM (GMT 0)
Thank you

I had a rough day yesterday. Swimming is the only thing that helps me. I live in AZ, so being outside right now is hard.

Today has been much better though. I had a little glimpse of the depression lifting and the anxiety a little too. I can deal with one at a time, but when they both come down, it's really hard.

How long did it take for Lexapro to work and did you have start up anxiety with it?
Posted 8/4/2014 1:19 AM (GMT 0)
definitely! I always found a week or 2 before my period my anxiety would peak. Especially during menopause it was the worst ever.
Posted 8/4/2014 3:12 AM (GMT 0)
Keaz,
Lexapro took 2-3 weeks to feel "normal" again, but I did feel better and I also did 20 minute breathing meditation (you tube, Life Changing: 20 minute meditation) daily and stretched each morning. All mess take a little time- positive thinking- stay in the present moment. Don't think about tomorrow. I know it's easier said than done- but it does get better. The more I have educated myself about anxiety and panic attacks the easier it is to cope and help others. I'm here, you are not alone. PPL
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