10 ways to support someone who’s on their period
If you’ve read our blog ‘Don’t have periods but want to understand?’, you’ll have an idea about what’s going on every month for girls and young people who have periods. As you know, the effects aren’t just physical, they’re emotional too.
Being mindful and supportive of friends and family members when they’re on their period is a great way to show them that you care. What’s more, it’ll earn you plenty of brownie points – a little understanding and kindness go a long way! To help you with this, we have listed 10 ways you can support someone who’s on their period below. Give them a read and then put them to work!
1. Listen - a friendly ear can work wonders, even if they just want to moan about their day.
2. Be understanding – they have lots of hormones flying around in their body right now and so patience is key. It’s totally normal for someone to get grumpy and even upset for no apparent reason. We know it seems odd, but try to be understanding and don’t take it to heart.
3. Make them feel comfortable – by this we mean both physically and emotionally; a hot water bottle or big comfy hoodie is a good start. Be open to talking about whatever they want to, period-related or not – Not only will it make them feel comfortable, but they’ll really appreciate it.
4. Give them space – it’s great to be there for someone when they’re going through their period, but sometimes those pesky hormones have other ideas. You might find they just want some time alone, and that’s okay – it’s nothing personal, just try to be there when they’re ready for some company again.
5. Let them choose the film – help them take their mind off things and cheer them up. It seems like a small thing, but it will mean a lot.
6. Offer to go for a walk – getting out in the fresh air can help with all kinds of period symptoms. So if they’re up to it, why not suggest getting out and about?
7. Don’t joke about it – we’ve heard them all and none are funny. Making a joke about their period or trying to make light of it isn’t the best approach.
8. Get the snacks in – some people crave certain foods on the lead up to or during their period. Finding out and stocking up on what they fancy is an excellent way to show you care.
9. Offer some good advice – if your friend tells you they’re struggling with their period -whether it’s physical or emotional - suggest they speak to a parent or carer. If they don’t feel they can do that, they should talk to a nurse or doctor.
10. Introduce them to Bloody Brilliant – you’ve found us and, hopefully, you’ve learned a thing or two. We’ve got loads of information and blogs to help people who have periods, so why not introduce us so that we can help them!
So there you have it: 10 easy ways to support someone who’s on their period. While you’re here, why not take a look at some of our other blogs to find out more about periods and what people experience during their flow so you’re best equipped to lend a helping hand when someone needs it most.
