Let's tap into PMDD. I was diagnosed with dysmenorrhea when I was sixteen, didn't really understand it but was told that's the medical term for painful periods. Mind you, the only option that was given to me when I asked about a cure, was birth control pills. Which I then got on. First time ever taking the pill was because my doctor at the time told me it was my only solution for my painful periods. Now that I'm an adult and have learned so much about the complexities of female body, through serving others; I'm reflecting on my own experiences. Honestly, I think PMDD would've been a more solid diagnosis when I was sixteen.
April is Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) awareness month.
PMDD is a cyclical, hormone-based mood disorder with symptoms arising during the luteal phase, of your cycle and subsiding within a few days of your period. So this basically a mental health issue on top of menstrual related physical symptoms. PMDD affects an estimated 5.5 percent of folks of a reproductive age living in the U.S. So mental symptoms may include depression, anxiety, brain fog, heightened emotionality, rage, and even thoughts of suicide; while physical symptoms range from bloating to muscle/joint pain and breast tenderness. Why that happens is because the sudden/abnormal hormone drop results in decreased levels of natural mood stabilizers, plus a heightened stress response. Fits of anger or tears can shift into heavy depression, dissociation, or even suicidal thoughts. My attitude was extreme when I was in high school. I now understand it was a combination of anxiety, sensitivity, and I was mad. Plus, I was repeatedly told I'm just an angry black girl whenever I faced a confrontation with my peers. I've always felt and known that I was different spiritually. At that time, even as a teenager, I felt different physically and emotionally, and it was mainly before or during my period. I feel for everyone that has PMDD, I truly do. Now if you suspect you might have PMDD it’s best to see a doctor (PCP, therapist, or OB/GYN) and bring a detailed account of your symptoms. I'm saying like 60 days or 2 months worth of data. A doctor should determine if there’s a pattern of flare ups during the luteal phase or if it's something else.
No matter what, give yourself grace. You're not alone.
Asé.
