Connecting with friends or support groups

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Published 22 May 2025 | Written by Dr Bruce B. Lanier

Your menstrual cycle isn’t just a physical experience—it deeply impacts your mood, emotions, and mental well-being. During certain phases of the cycle, especially the premenstrual (PMS) and menstrual phases, it’s common to feel more sensitive, anxious, or low. In these times, connection becomes essential—not just with yourself, but also with others. Reaching out to friends or joining support groups can be a powerful act of self-care that nurtures both body and soul.


๐ŸŒธ Why Connection Matters During Your Cycle

During your period, hormonal fluctuations (like dips in estrogen and serotonin) can influence your emotional state. This may lead to mood swings, irritability, sadness, or even feelings of isolation. While it's tempting to withdraw, surrounding yourself with supportive people can:

  • Boost your mood naturally

  • Offer a safe space to share what you’re going through

  • Remind you that you’re not alone in your experience

  • Help you feel understood and validated


๐Ÿงก The Power of Talking to Friends

Even a simple chat with a friend can lighten your mental load. Sharing how you feel—without the fear of judgment—can be incredibly healing. You don’t always have to talk about your period; just being with someone who lifts your spirits can be enough. Some ideas:

  • Plan a low-energy hangout (coffee, a walk, or a cozy movie night)

  • Send a voice note if you're too tired to talk

  • Text a trusted friend just to say, “Hey, today feels heavy—can I vent for a minute?”

Friendship is a form of self-care. It’s okay to lean on others. They likely need your support too at some point.


๐ŸŒผ Joining Menstrual or Women’s Support Groups

Support groups—whether online or in-person—are filled with people who understand exactly what you’re going through. These spaces can offer:

  • Emotional validation

  • Helpful advice for managing symptoms

  • A sense of community and belonging

  • A safe place to ask personal or "awkward" questions

Where to find them:

  • Facebook groups or Reddit communities focused on menstrual health

  • Local wellness centers or clinics

  • Women’s health apps that offer group chats or forums (like Flo, Clue, or Eve)


๐ŸŒ™ How Support Improves Emotional Tracking

If your goal is to track your cycle, emotional tracking is just as important as physical symptoms. Sharing your mood shifts with others or hearing their experiences helps you recognize patterns like:

  • “I always feel extra sensitive 2 days before my period starts.”

  • “I tend to feel more social during ovulation.”

  • “Talking to someone actually helps me manage my PMS better.”

These realizations help you be more prepared and kind to yourself each month.


๐ŸŒบ Self-Care Through Social Connection

Don’t underestimate how emotionally healing a deep conversation or shared laughter can be. Emotional self-care doesn’t always mean being alone with candles and journals (although that’s great too!). It also means:

  • Allowing yourself to be supported

  • Building rituals of connection—like calling a friend on your first day of your period

  • Celebrating the natural rhythm of your body with others who honor theirs


Conclusion: You Are Not Alone

Your menstrual cycle is a deeply personal yet shared experience. Connecting with friends or support groups can bring comfort, joy, and strength during emotional ups and downs. Remember, your cycle is a journey—one that’s easier and more beautiful when walked alongside others. Embrace connection as part of your monthly self-care, and allow others to be part of your healing and empowerment.


Body Love Tip:
“Support isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s an act of love, for yourself and for others.”