Why you should keep track of your cycle

Hello everybody,

This is not a question, just something I would like to share.

Very short backstory: my life has been out of control. The pressure of trying to graduate uni and being diagnosed with no less than three DSM-5 disorders, has now led me to absolute exhaustion. I am taking a much needed break now, so I can now focus on my mental health.

You have probably seen the cyclescope here on eve and you may have noticed that these hormones flowing through our bodies have a huge impact. Even more than I thought. Especially if you have a DSM-5 diagnosis, you may notice that it has an even bigger impact than on those without, as hormone changes tend to worsen the symptoms.

So I figured, why not read up on it, so I know what to expect. Now I have time to learn about these things, things we normally might not notice. I almost started planning my time according to my cycle. Meeting a friend? Before ovulation, as you feel most optimistic and social around that time. Taking a day off? End of the cycle, because I will probably need it. Going shopping? Definitely not during my period, because instead of looking for some winter clothes, I'll be looking for toilets instead. Spending time with my boyfriend? The days around ovulation. Planning the weeks ahead? First few days of my cycle, because that's when I'm most motivated. There's a sudden hormone change right after ovulation, which can make you feel awful. Cleaning my room and getting the face masks and scented candles out? Before ovulation, so I can just jump into bed and watch netflix when the hormones drop.

I have noticed such a positive difference in how I have been feeling and what I have gotten done. Now I think: how have I not realised this before? Your body has its own plan for the month, and you will feel all sorts of things, whether it matches your own plans or not. So why not take advantage of it?

I just wanted to share this, because I think it can help so many people, especially those suffering from mental health issues. Knowing how the hormone changes throughout the month make you feel, can really make a difference in how you see yourself. If you can't get things done or you're really down during the last week of your cycle, instead of beating yourself down and making it even worse, you can be kinder to yourself, because it may just not be in your control.

So go beyond just tracking your cycle and learn about your hormones. It may not always be possible to adjust your schedule to them, but at least you will know what to expect. Be kind to yourself, always, no matter what your cycle makes you deal with.