Depressed during period Every month during my period I get extremely moody. I know this is a common problem, but I become very depressed and cry all the time. I am wanting to find something to combat this. I have been told there may be vitamins or something over the counter that I could take. You are correct that mood swings can be a common symptom, although it sounds like you may be in the 10 percent group where the symptoms are more severe and interfere in your daily activities.
Research is still ongoing as to the cause.
It is most likely a combination of biochemical factors including hormone shifts and fluid retention. The more recent studies are looking at a chemical in the brain called serotonin, which may be low during menstruation. A couple of medications being tried are Prozac and D-fenfluramine for more severe cases. These are only available by prescription. Before resorting to these medications, as they can have unwanted side effects, try some of the simpler remedies.