[xRavenx]

I noticed lately that my PMS is out of control. I always did have a lot of problems with my mood around that time, but it's extreme now. A long time ago, a doctor gave me an SSRI not knowing my BP diagnosis (and back then, I wasn't formally diagnosed, although I had strong suspicions), and it made me manic. Then, I was told I do not have PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder), since I don't respond to SSRIs or antidepressants in general. Therefore, it's just that my typical Bipolar symptoms are intensified around that time of the month.

I would really like some suggestions on how to better cope with extreme Bipolar mood swings, combined with the physical symptoms of PMS. What has helped you?

[liveforsummer]

For me regular sleep schedule and regular exercise helps. Easier said than done sometimes as right now I’m wide awake. Grrrr. Unfortunately I think there will be times not much helps.

[99fairies]

I've been on the invega shot for 2 years and it stopped my period. I still get mood swings around the same time each month, just not the period. When I feel very irritable during that time I stay in my room while my husband takes care of the kids. So I don't take it out on everyone.

[WildcatVet]

Back then only one thing helped and it was illegal...still is except in a few states....

[UpDownMiddleGround]

Though it was not added for that purpose. I noticed an improvement with mood swings around my period after an AP was added to my medication regimine.

[xRavenx]

Maybe I should take more Klonopin during that time of the month? Probably. As far as an AP goes, I am on Seroquel. Something I noticed: my thoughts get very irrational and sometimes get to the point of paranoia and some symptoms that mimic mania (or I should say, mixed mania). I even started to notice looking back that I had some signs of being delusional. Maybe Seroquel isn't a strong enough AP for me overall.

[stopchewinggum]

When I was younger, I noticed more serious mood disruptions around that time. (I wasn't diagnosed around that time though.) I know it is always tempting to go the benzo route, especially when you're in emotional hell. Still, it's better to use as little of benzos as possible. I would agree with either increasing seroquel during that time of the month, if it is otherwise effective or trying another ap. Perhaps, prn combination of those off label mood stabilizers for that time of the month? I'm not a doctor, obviously. Just something to think about.

[UpDownMiddleGround]

I noticed the difference with risperdal. It really was good for helping to control my mood (along with trileptal). I'm coming off because of weight gain (carb cravings) so I don't know if latuda, will do the trick or not.

I forgot to mention another thing. When I discussed my diagnosis and mood swings with my gynecologist, she prescribed depoprovera. She said she uses that with many of her patients with mood disorders that have this complaint. I have never taken it. Before I was ever diagnosed, I noticed that birth control pills, patches, and rings had an affect on my mood, so I'm afraid to take something that I would be stuck with for a long period of time. Sounds like it has helped some people though. It may be another option to explore.

[FallDuskTrain]

Cut sugar completely.
Eat very healthy.
As soon as I start eating refined sugar, bad carbs and processed food, my PMS symptoms include suicidal thoughts. This has always been the case.
When I eat healthy and exercise, it is much easier to manage.

[Moreta]

Mine were bad, so I went on depo provera birth control. no period = no PMS. My husband likes me calm.

[xRavenx]

Originally Posted by FallDuskTrain

Cut sugar completely.
Eat very healthy.
As soon as I start eating refined sugar, bad carbs and processed food, my PMS symptoms include suicidal thoughts. This has always been the case.
When I eat healthy and exercise, it is much easier to manage.

I do eat a lot of sugar, especially when I have PMS, so I really need to quit and eat healthier.