Pre-Menstural Dysphoric Disorder

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a mental illness that describes mood changes occurring exclusively during the two weeks before a woman menses. Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder is mostly common in women in their late-30s to mid-40s. 

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder symptoms are like those in MDD with the most common symptom being irritability. The symptoms of PMDD must be severe enough as to interfere with day-to-day functioning such as isolation from friends/family or decreased productivity at work/school.

The PMDD symptoms Include:

Breast pain, bloating, headaches, joint/muscle pain, or weight gain

Depressed mood, feelings of hopelessness or self-deprecating thoughts 

Acute Anxiety

Anger or significant increased conflicts with others

Frequently changing, wide-ranging emotions such as feeling suddenly sad, tearful or increased sensitivity to rejection

Decreased interest in usual activities and or difficulty concentrating

Lack of energy, and feeling overwhelming tired

Change in appetite or craving specific foods

Change in sleeping patterns

To be diagnosed with PMDD, the symptoms mentioned above must occur only during the two weeks before menses and be present for two consecutive cycles.

Treatment:

PMDD can be a combination of several different complementary approaches that work together to reduce symptoms. For one client, it may include medication, nutritional changes, exercise, and/or mental health therapy. For another client, it may include taking supplements/vitamins, practicing mindfulness, or spending lots of time outdoors in nature.

If you think you may suffer from any of the symptoms mentioned above, let’s work together to discuss your treatment options.