Misconceptions of Depression and PMDD
Kristen talks about depression and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). She believes this is something many people do not speak about, but she feels like it should be discussed–especially the misconceptions about it.
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a condition where a woman experiences depression, irritability, and tension before their period.
On average, women who have periods experience PMS, premenstrual symptoms two days before their period. But with PMDD it could be two weeks before their period. During these two weeks, you can experience things like depression, irritability, lack of sleep, lack of eating, and even suicidal thoughts.
This is a very controversial type of depression because it just went into the DSM-5 recently. There are still people who believe it doesn't exist and there are people who believe it exists.
I believe it's an amazing diagnosis for individuals who need help.
I have a friend who does experiences, and she got the help she needs because this diagnosis went into the DSM-5. Because this diagnosis is so incredibly new, there are a lot of misconceptions around it.
The 3 Misconceptions of PMDD
So today I want to talk about three misconceptions about PMDD that everyone should know. So let's get started.
PMS and PMDD are the Same Things
Premenstrual symptoms can be two to three days before your period. But PMDD sufferers experience these symptoms up to two weeks before their period.
PMDD symptoms are extremely more severe than PMS. People who have PMDD can experience a depression that is so severe that it could lead to suicidal thoughts.
It Is All In Your Head
I hate this misconception for any mental onus because it's a mental illness. Mental, in my head. Of course, it's in my head. But that doesn't mean it's not any more real than any other illness.
There Is No Treatment for PMDD
This is not true. There is tons of treatment and help for people who are suffering from PMDD.
Eat healthy, exercise, and practice a ton of self-care. Write down in your diary or journal or in your phone things that are going on in your life, or different triggers for your depression and reach out to people who you care about.
There's treatment now for PMDD:
- You can go to a counselor and talk about your depression
- >Visit your doctor and talk about your symptoms
- Talk to a supportive friend about it because it's so beneficial just to reach out and talk to somebody.
