Period Diaries and Mental Health: The Connection You Need to Know About
For many people, periods are viewed as a natural and normal part of life. However, for those who experience them, periods can often be accompanied by a range of physical and emotional symptoms that can significantly impact their mental health. In this blog post, we will explore the connection between period diaries and mental health, and why it is important to understand and address this relationship.
Understanding Period Diaries
Before we dive into the connection between period diaries and mental health, let’s first understand what a period diary is. A period diary is a record of a person’s menstrual cycle, including the start and end dates, as well as any symptoms experienced during this time. These symptoms can include physical ones such as cramping, headaches, and bloating, as well as emotional symptoms like mood swings, irritability, and anxiety.
For many people, keeping a period diary can help them track their cycles and identify any patterns or irregularities. It can also be a useful tool for tracking symptoms and identifying any triggers or underlying factors that may be causing them.
The Impact of Periods on Mental Health
While periods are a natural bodily function, they can have a significant impact on a person’s mental health. One of the main reasons for this is the hormonal changes that occur during the menstrual cycle. Estrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate throughout the cycle, which can affect neurotransmitters in the brain and lead to changes in mood and emotions.
In addition, the physical symptoms experienced during periods can also contribute to mental health issues. For example, severe cramping or bloating can cause discomfort and pain, which can lead to irritability and mood swings. This can also be exacerbated by societal stigma and shame surrounding periods, which can make people feel embarrassed or ashamed of their bodies and their experiences.
The Connection Between Period Diaries and Mental Health

Period Diaries and Mental Health: The Connection You Need to Know About
So, how are period diaries and mental health connected? Firstly, keeping a period diary can help individuals identify any patterns or triggers in their symptoms. This can allow them to be better prepared and make necessary adjustments to their routines or self-care practices during this time.
In addition, tracking symptoms in a period diary can also help individuals communicate their experiences with their healthcare providers. This can lead to better understanding and management of any underlying conditions that may be causing these symptoms, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or endometriosis.
Moreover, keeping a period diary can also help individuals validate their experiences and feelings. By having a record of their symptoms, they can see that their emotions and moods are not just in their head, but are a result of the physical changes happening in their bodies. This can be especially helpful for those who experience premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), which can have a significant impact on mental health.
Addressing the Connection
While period diaries can be a useful tool for managing the impact of periods on mental health, it is also important to address the underlying issues that may contribute to these symptoms. This can include seeking support from healthcare professionals, incorporating self-care practices, and addressing any societal stigma and shame surrounding periods.
For those who experience severe symptoms that significantly impact their daily life, it is important to seek professional help. This can include therapy, medication, or other treatments to manage both the physical and emotional symptoms.
In addition, addressing the stigma and shame surrounding periods is crucial in promoting positive mental health. Educating others and having open and honest conversations about periods can help break down these barriers and create a more supportive and understanding environment for those who experience them.
Final Thoughts
Period diaries and mental health are undeniably connected. By understanding this relationship and addressing it, individuals can better manage their symptoms and promote positive mental health during this time. It is essential to validate and support those who experience periods, and to continue breaking down the societal stigma and shame surrounding them.
In summary, periods can have a significant impact on a person’s mental health due to hormonal changes and physical symptoms. Keeping a period diary can help individuals track their symptoms and communicate with healthcare providers, leading to better management of underlying conditions. It can also help validate experiences and address societal stigma and shame. It is crucial to address this connection and promote positive mental health for those who experience periods.






