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Seriously, I think I just need a breath. Is there any such thing as PMS Depression, and yes, I'm being genuine, not sarcastic. I'm usually pretty balanced when it comes to managing the stressors that may arise, in daily life. But "around that time," I am particularly challenged. Rage is an issue. I'm constantly on the brink of tearfulness, and quite honestly, I'm concerned about my blurry vision, at this moment.

I'm more prone to being angry with my husband. And I swear my employer is a green-eyed monster. Inklings from "I'm quitting today," to "He and I should just divorce, or at least, separate," are very real. However, once I'm over that 5-day slump, I resume just rolling with the punches, and I smile and laugh, and for the most part, "don't sweat the small stuff".

I know that depression spawns from childhood traumas, even chemical and genetic imbalances. I acknowledge there are different forms of depression; although, I can not elaborate, even to my own satisfaction, about the various, clinical forms that exist. But, I can speak about sadness, and the mood changes. Since I began, what we commonly call "a period," there is a noticeable shift in my awareness. Others have even noticed it; although, I have never been one who needs validation from an audience to authenticate my feelings. The most important analysis is my own. And while I have tried to remedy the situation of over-emotionalism during my menstrual cycle, with Spirulina, Noni, and other homeopathic prescriptions (include talk therapy, and sometimes, downright ignoring the severity of it), I'm guilty of buying into the stereotypes that it's just a "woman thing," and there's really not much I can do about it.

But, what if it affects my relationships so profoundly that my thoughts, words and behaviors cannot be reversed, after the bloating and berating ceases? I have given much thought as to whether a specific type of depression, that festers with the onset of monthly hormonal changes, and fizzles out, with its end, actually exists.

Depression is not to be played with. If seasonal depression is a force to be reckoned with, certainly I am more inclined to think that there is a very real aspect of Pre- and Post Menstrual Syndrome that involves, for some women, like myself, massive fluctuations in mood and temperament.

Acknowledging it may very well be the first step. Vitamins do help. I am aware of some of my deficiencies, for example, I supplement my diet with Vitamin B; but, I have considered contraceptives.

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