How to Cope with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

You’ve undoubtedly heard about premenstrual syndrome (PMS), but the severe form of the condition, premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), has gotten less attention. 

PMDD includes intense physical and mental symptoms that can make it difficult to get through every month, especially if you suffer from heavy periods. The pain, fatigue, frustration, and other symptoms can take a toll on your mental health.

As a board-certified psychiatrist, Dr. Ifeanyi Olele of Genesis Psychiatric Solutions offers targeted women’s mental health solutions, including counseling and advice for women suffering from PMDD.

Understanding PMDD

Many women with menstrual problems don’t realize something is wrong until they bring it up to an experienced doctor. Symptoms of PMS may be dismissed entirely, which makes it difficult to get help for premenstrual dysphoric disorder, which is more severe. 

Common symptoms of PMDD consist of the physical symptoms of PMS, including bloating, tenderness, and fatigue. These may be combined with severe mental and emotional symptoms, such as:

• Irritability 
• Trouble sleeping
• Mood swings 
• Persistent sadness
• Changes in appetite 
• Anxiety 
• Irritability 

Sometimes, the dysphoria and depression that PMDD causes can even lead to suicidal thoughts, making it a genuine psychiatric concern. 

These issues can occur in the days leading up to and during your period, making things more difficult than they already are. With proper planning and management, you can learn to identify these symptoms and cope with your PMDD.

Coping with PMDD 

If you think you might be struggling with premenstrual dysphoric disorder, find a specialist who takes you seriously, like Dr. Olele. Don’t allow doctors to wave off your concerns about how you feel before and during your period. 

At Genesis Psychiatric Solutions, Dr. Olele has experience with many aspects of women’s mental health, including premenstrual and perinatal conditions. 

To cope with PMDD, Dr. Olele recommends that you track your periods closely and take note of what symptoms you experience most often. When you learn to recognize the anxiety, irritability, or sadness caused by PMDD, you can manage it better. 

Lifestyle and diet changes can make you feel better overall, while medications like antidepressants and birth control can treat mental and hormonal imbalances that might be worsening your PMDD. 

While your options for stopping your menstrual cycle are limited, being proactive and mindful can go a long way, and a specialist can help you go even further in staying physically and mentally well. 

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Olele by requesting a consultation online today or by calling the location closest to you. We have offices in Fairfax and Alexandria, Virginia, as well as in Washington, DC; Boca Raton, Florida; and Los Angeles, California. You can also receive services via telepsychiatry.