Being single can be difficult in itself without menopausal mood swings butting in to rear their ugly head. Menopause is difficult enough to deal with, but you can’t send it to the corner when you need it not to interfere, though that would be nice. No, every woman has to find what works for them to keep the mood swings under control.
When dealing with day to day stress, we often find ways to cope or unleash our anger. But what happens when you’re on a date and a mood swing hits? Do you try to explain, run and hide, or let your date think your short a few fuses? In reality, and the perfect world, you would never let your date see that side of you. However, life happens and like most times, you’re not given a choice. This leaves you with prevention as the best medicine, for controlling mood swings and saving your date from disaster. Follow the tips below to win the battle of the mood swings on date nights, and every other night too!
6 tips on how to manage mood swings during a date
1. Exercise
You don’t have to run out and join a gym, unless you really want to, but you need to get your body moving. Whether you choose to walk, follow along to a video, dance, or whatever your favorite form of exercise is, just move your body every day. Try to aim for 20-30 minutes a day, at least three times a week but every day is ideal.You see, exercise is vital to releasing serotonin and to reduce stress. Serotonin will bring on those happy thoughts, and help to maintain them. You can’t produce too much of this “feel good hormone,” that you need to feel great.
2. Avoid caffeine and excessive sugars
Caffeinated beverages can leave you feeling irritable, and this can send you spinning into a mood swing far easier than without it. Sugar on the other hand, is alright in moderation, but if you consume too much, it can rob your body of the nutrients it really needs. When your diet is severely off balance it can make mood swings more difficult to control.3. Choose comfort
This doesn’t mean you’re banned from everything but your sweats. On the contrary you should look your absolute best on date night. Stay away from fabrics that irritate the skin, and don’t breathe. The last thing you want happening is getting hit with hot flashes, and not having a breathable fabric on. Choose a flattering, comfortable, yet airy outfit that will help you keep your cool if things heat up with a hot flash.4. No drinking
No wine, no beer, and no cocktails, zilch. Even if you think you can handle just one; you may not be able to control your mood swings. It’s better to err on the side of caution unless this date is with a person who understands that you’re going through menopause. Even then they may not like being called names, or having your cry over your dinner plate. Save the drinks, for girl’s night out, where you can let loose with the safety of your pals.5. Choose healthy options
This doesn’t mean to starve yourself, no not in the least. Instead of ordering whatever, choose foods that are high in tryptophan to keep the serotonin producing. Foods like steak, chicken, egg dishes, and even fish are great choices. If you don’t eat meat, look for dark leafy vegetables, and whole grains. Also, don’t forget the salad, and to eat your vegetables.6. Go to the movies
Enjoy some time with your date at the movies, or another venue where speaking isn’t overly required. This is a good idea if you’ve had a very bad day, but don’t want to cancel your date either. This can protect you from outbursts, or hide the tears if you choose a sentimental “chick flick” type movie. You may want to choose not to wear mascara, just in case the flood gates open.Final thoughts
Menopause is a fact of life, but it’s not something you’re ready to tell everyone. Eventually you may have to tell a date the truth, and it’s far better to be honest than to lie. When that time comes, you’ll know it. If your mood swings are very severe you may wish to talk to your doctor about all the treatments that are available, for you. Most of them would want you to try natural remedies first, prior to prescribing any medications. Keep in mind, that this list contains only a handful of natural remedies available to treat menopausal mood swings.
