It can be a struggle to stay positive with PCOS. Having to deal with unpleasant symptoms, such as weight gain and infertility, while making dramatic lifestyle changes can be tough. There are several things you can do to help with a positive attitude, though, from making time for self-care to trying out different complementary therapies.

Build a Support Network

Building a good support network to help you stay positive with PCOS is a great first step. Being surrounded by friends and family can help with mental wellness and boosting your mood, whether you’re taking part in activities together or just chatting. It can also help to have someone to go to doctors or fertility appointments with.

You can also find support within in person or online PCOS groups and social media. Verity is a UK self-help group for women suffering with polycystic ovaries, and has an active discussion board and social media community for anyone looking to get in touch with other sufferers.

Make Time for Self Care

Self-care is an incredibly important part of mental wellness, and can help you to stay positive on your PCOS journey. Start by taking the time to make sure your diet is well balanced and full of nutritious foods, and that you’re getting enough exercise.

Spending time outdoors in nature can also help to improve mood and increase those positive thoughts. Scientific testing has shown that ecotherapy, a treatment that includes outdoor activities, has a positive impact on anxiety and depression.

If you’re more of an indoors person, try long relaxing baths, curling up with a good book or binge-watching your favourite show. The key is to take time to do the things that make you feel good.

Start a Journal

Journaling has been shown to help with anxiety, depression and stress, and it’s also a great way to help you stay positive with PCOS. You don’t need any special equipment, just a notebook and pen - and you simply have to write.

You could spend time each day recording your symptoms, making notes about dietary changes and new treatments or just jotting down how you’ve felt. The act of writing is incredibly therapeutic, and your journal will allow you to express yourself fully.

Try Complementary Therapies

A good diet and plenty of exercise can be enhanced by trying out complementary therapies, which will work together to boost your mood. Yoga is great for both physical and mental health, and meditation can help centre the mind and relieve anxiety.

Aromatherapy is great for relaxation, which in turn helps to maintain a positive mental attitude; oils such as lavender, jasmine and bergamot are ideal. Similarly, acupuncture has been shown to aid stress relief - it works by helping to balance the nervous system.

Get a Good Nights Sleep

When you’re well rested physically, you automatically feel better mentally. While you sleep, your body works hard to repair itself and your brain processes information from the day.

If you’re struggling to get a good nights sleep, try establishing a good bedtime routine. Keeping technology out of the bedroom, taking a warm bath before bed and spending time reading or meditating before you go to sleep should help.

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