I start experiencing increased anxiety about a week before my period is due. what causes that and is there anything i can do to minimize it?

Premenstrual anxiety: Anxiety is not generally associated with the time of "a week before" one's period, i.e., hormonal changes. Sudden dropping of estrogen occurs just prior to both ovulation and about a day or so before menstruation begins, both of which times can increase situational anxiety symptoms. Hormonal influences on mood, etc., are minimized by oral birth control. Ask your gyn provider to discuss in detail