I always felt like something was off every month. I would feel irritable, bloated, and generally unwell for a few days before my period. But it wasn’t until I started tracking my symptoms that I realized I had PMDD, or Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder.
PMDD is a condition that affects up to 8% of women during their reproductive years. It’s a severe form of PMS that can cause emotional and physical symptoms like depression, anxiety, mood swings, and fatigue. For me, PMDD means that the week before my period is a rollercoaster of emotions. I’m bitchy and sensitive at the same time, and my ADHD symptoms worsen.
This is particularly difficult for me because I tend to be hurtful to my loved ones, and I’m more likely to snap at them or get into arguments. It’s hard to explain to them why I’m feeling the way I am, especially because mental health is still stigmatized in our community.
I’ve learned to cope with PMDD in my own way. I tell my best friend that I can’t talk because I’m in a depressive funk. I also find that my prayers get harder to perform during this time, which is frustrating because I’m a devout Muslim and prayer is an important part of my life. I also struggle with insomnia, which only exacerbates my mood swings and anxiety.
Getting ready and going to work is dreadful, and I often want to stay in bed and do nothing. It’s also challenging because I’m in the talking stages with a marriage prospect, and the week before my period, I want to end things. It’s hard to explain to him why I’m feeling this way, and I worry that he won’t understand.
Despite the challenges, I’m grateful that I now know what’s going on with my body. PMDD is a real condition, and it’s important to recognize the symptoms and seek help if needed. It’s also essential to have a support system in place, whether it’s friends, family, or a mental health professional.
I’ve found that talking about my experiences with PMDD has been helpful in breaking the stigma around mental health in my community. It’s not always easy, but I’ve had some positive conversations with friends and family members who have struggled with their own mental health. By sharing my story, I hope to encourage others to speak up and seek the help they need.
It’s important to note that PMDD is not the same as PMS. While many women experience mild discomfort or mood changes before their period, PMDD is a more severe condition that can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. If you’re experiencing symptoms like depression, anxiety, or severe mood swings before your period, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider.
There are a variety of treatments available for PMDD, including medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes. For me, exercise and a healthy diet have been helpful in managing my symptoms. I’ve also found that mindfulness practices like meditation and journaling can be useful in regulating my mood.
Living with PMDD is challenging, but I’m learning to cope with it. By sharing my story, I hope to help others who are struggling with their mental health and encourage more open and honest conversations about these issues in our communities.