A spell of the blues during PMS (premenstrual syndrome) is not uncommon. PMS blues can be triggered by the many changes in hormone and neurotransmitter levels that occur during the premenstrual phase. The good news is, once your period starts, your mood will brighten and the PMS blues will lift. So you see, there can be a bright side to starting your period, at least as far it signaling the end of PMS, the blues and other symptoms is concerned!
The PMS blues are most likely caused by a serotonin deficiency. Serotonin is a key neurotransmitter (a natural chemical that delivers signals between the body's nerve cells), low levels of which can affect neural pathways in the brain in such as way that leaves you feeling blue. Serotonin deficiency is also linked to the carbohydrate cravings you may have in combination with the blues during PMS. A diet high in complex carbohydrates (whole grain cereals, vegetables, and fruit, brown rice etc.) should help ward off these symptoms.
Depression in PMS is worsened by the fact that levels of endorphins, the body's feel good neurotransmitters, are lowered by estrogen and progesterone in the last two weeks of the menstrual cycle. A decrease in endorphin production during this time will only worsen the blues and any feelings of depression, anxiety or sadness. As well as a diet rich in complex carbohydrates, tyrosine, magnesium and vitamin B6 supplements have been shown to help some women shift the blues in PMS depression. St. John's Wort is also often recommended as a calming and mood-lifting natural supplement.
