Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a difficult phase that affects the well-being of women. It is a severe phase and chronic in nature, during Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS). PMS is a normal phase that all women go through, but PMDD affects emotional, psychological, and physical well-being to a great extent. This phase starts during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, which is one to two weeks before menstruation. Symptoms and their effects get better within a few days after the menstrual period begins. PMDD has an impact on daily activities, work, relationships, and overall life. The exact cause is not fully understood yet, but medical experts believe it happens because there is an abnormal response to normal hormonal fluctuations at the time of menses cycle.
So what exactly happens in PMDD? There are intense mood swings. Women would feel sadness, irritability, anxiety, and anger. You may also experience feelings of hopelessness. Women who go through PMDD may also have difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbances, tiredness, and loss of interest in activities that they liked. In terms of physical symptoms, they may experience bloating, breast tenderness, or joint or muscle pain.
Mental health professionals tell clients to track their symptoms that are observable and felt. Patients track symptoms and changes for at least two menstrual cycles in order to understand the diagnosis. It is better to have an early diagnosis so that the patient can be treated well medically. PMDD can be mistakenly seen as anxiety or depression.
I have a friend who went through this condition. She used to go through a tough phase during PMS, but medications and Counselling helped her to cope with PMDD. She used to go through tough times. So how can we treat PMDD? PMDD management includes changes in lifestyle, psychological interventions, and psychiatric medications whenever required. Exercising, a well-balanced diet, and good sleep are very important. Patients are also taught stress management exercises to manage and get through the phase better. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT ) and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy( DBT) can be helpful and effective in managing distressing phases. Focus should be more on increasing the coping skills. Healthcare professionals may also suggest patient take selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors SSRI. Hormonal treatment can also help to manage symptoms better.
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder PMDD is a mental health condition that needs attention and requires treatment. Increasing awareness and educating people about PMDD is essential. We can help each other and make this world a better place by spreading knowledge and its impact on women’s health. Women deserve care and understanding during such phases. Have you come across this concern? What do you think?
MBH/PS