If you look online for information that ties depressive feelings to the menstrual cycle, you will find plenty of outdated or misinformed sources, citing anecdotal or incorrect evidence. But in the last few decades, researchers have looked more closely at the relationship between hormones, menstruation, and mood. They have found that there can be a real link for some people.
However, it’s not as simple as everyone following the same pattern at the same point in their cycle. Mood and mental health are influenced by many factors at once. Below, we’ll break down what may be happening before, during, or after your period — and what we can say with confidence about support options that may help.
This article was reviewed and updated for 2026 to reflect current clinical understanding of hormones, mood changes, and depression symptoms.
Hormone Fluctuations During the Menstrual Cycle
As we’ve mentioned in our blog Why Depression Happens, one factor behind depressive symptoms can involve the interaction of hormones and neurotransmitters. Dopamine and serotonin help regulate mood, and for some people these may be influenced by hormone changes across the menstrual cycle.
In the days after menstruation, estrogen and progesterone are relatively low. As ovulation approaches, estrogen rises and then falls again shortly after. Progesterone rises during the second half of the cycle and then drops as menstruation begins.
For some people, these shifts may affect mood and energy. A 2017 review discusses links between estrogen and dopamine activity, including potential effects on memory and concentration. If you notice mood changes around ovulation or as your period approaches, it may be helpful to track patterns over a few cycles and discuss them with a qualified health professional.
In more severe cases, mood symptoms tied to the menstrual cycle may be consistent with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), which can involve significant irritability, anxiety, sleep disruption, and emotional distress. Some symptoms overlap with depression, which is why a proper assessment matters.
Other Factors That Can Intensify Mood Changes
Hormones rarely act alone. Sleep disruption, stress, chronic pain, relationship strain, nutrition, and life circumstances can all amplify depressive symptoms — and some of these can be harder to manage at different points in the cycle.
Research also suggests that women are more likely to experience depressive disorders than men, influenced by a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors. (For a general overview, see this summary.)
Support Options for Depression Around Ovulation
If mood symptoms are affecting your day-to-day functioning, there are support options. Depending on your situation, this may include medical assessment (to rule out other causes), therapy, lifestyle supports, and in some cases medication. What’s most appropriate depends on symptom severity, timing, and your medical history.
Some research suggests that cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) may be helpful for certain menstrual-cycle-related mood symptoms. For example, one study explored CBT approaches in this context, and later reviews discuss the broader evidence base. CBT is also a well-established approach for depression more generally, which is why it may be part of a treatment plan when symptoms overlap.
If you’re noticing a consistent pattern of depressive symptoms around ovulation or in the days before your period, it can help to track timing (sleep, mood, stressors, appetite, energy) for 2–3 cycles and bring that information to a healthcare provider.
If you’d like professional support, our team offers depression therapy support in Calgary and online counselling options.
Video: Depression and Ovulation
In this video, a therapist from Your Counselling explains how hormonal changes around ovulation can influence mood, and when additional support may be helpful.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it normal to feel depressed around ovulation?
Some people notice mood changes around ovulation or before their period. If symptoms are persistent, intense, or interfere with daily functioning, it’s worth discussing with a healthcare professional.
What’s the difference between PMS, PMDD, and depression?
PMS involves physical and emotional symptoms that occur before a period. PMDD is more severe and can significantly affect mood and functioning. Depression can occur independently or overlap with cycle-related symptoms, which is why assessment matters.
When should I seek professional support?
Consider seeking support if symptoms last more than two weeks, recur in a predictable cycle pattern, affect relationships or work, or include thoughts of self-harm. If you are in immediate danger, call emergency services.