The only reason I bring it up here is because of cycling. I started my period yesterday and now everything I've been whining about the past week suddenly is gone. Last month was the same. For about a week or so I'm a monster and once I start my period, it's like nothing was ever wrong. Last month I was ready to sell all my bikes and give up just as I was last week. Today I almost came home with a full-suspension MTB. At 35, one of those would really help. DH said I would probably have to trade-in my 29er and I don't think I could go through with it. It's probably a bipolar "need" thing symptom anyway.

I never used to be like this. Period comes and goes..no problems for years until I got thinking about the past week and the past couple of months. I know I'm bipolar and deal with those issues, but the feelings of rage..everything seems to set me off..being emotional over stupid stuff, cranky, and the overwhelming anxiety has me really worried. These emotions aren't bipolar related and are gone the day I start my period.

Anything that helps? Meds? Anything to avoid? I'm talking to my doc on Monday about the back of my leg and will bring it up. I just can't handle this every month for a week. It's not fair to my family and to myself. It's hard enough dealing with a mental illness even with medication, but this is overwhelming since it defies what I'm on now.

I'm good on a bike. I've made wonderful progress cycling despite my self pity. I love my bikes even if I get overwhelmed. I'm slowly gaining confidence on a bike and for once, other than quilting, I have something I'm starting to love.

Thanks for any advice and for being such a great forum.