How to Manage Your Mood Swings When Working with Small Children

Mood swings can be a particularly difficult symptom of menopause to deal with. They are characterized by sudden and dramatic changes in mood, which do not seem to have a rational cause. This means that they can be a surprising and confusing symptom to manage.

Mood swings are aggravated further in stressful situations such as traveling, dealing with relationship issues, teaching, and parenting. An especially difficult time to handle mood swings is when working with small children. Dealing with menopause symptoms while working with kids can be quite challenging. With a few adjustments to your routine, making it through the workday can get a little bit easier. Read on to learn four tips to manage your mood swings when working with small children.

Get up Early

Getting up earlier than usual may be difficult, but having a little extra time will help you mentally prepare for the day. Make sure you start the day with a healthy breakfast, have a cup of tea or coffee, and take a few minutes to do something you enjoy, like reading the paper or watching the news. Giving yourself more time in the morning will allow you to face the day ahead with poise and a level head.

Take a Deep Breath

The nature of working with children means that taking breaks can be difficult. A long day in constant company is difficult to get through at the best of times, but when the company is a rowdy or upset child and you are suffering menopausal mood swings, your patience may be tested. It may not be plausible to leave the room to calm down if you are struggling, but try to give yourself a moment to take a deep breath and count to ten in your head. Walk away from the aggravating situation if possible. Taking a deep breath and being conscious of your feelings will help you refocus and stabilize your mood.

Try Yoga

Make sure you have a life away from the little ones. A good way to do this is to take up a sport or hobby. Yoga and meditation can not only ensure that you have time to yourself, but they relax and soothe your body and mind. Taking up yoga may help calm your mood swings in the long run.

Have a Snack

Eating a snack, such as a piece of fruit or a small amount of chocolate, can have a stabilizing effect on mood swings by ensuring your blood sugar levels are maintained throughout the day. Keeping a glass of water on hand is also a good idea. Staying hydrated provides a myriad of positive effects on overall health.

For more information on menopausal mood swings, their causes, and how to deal with them, follow the links below.