Anchored by Hope

Authentic + Biblical Encouragement

Categories: Mental Health

Uncovering the Truth about PMDD

Welcome to the new Wellness Wednesday series! Today I am sharing something extremely personal and unfamiliar to most – PMDD.

As women, we all have dealt with the discomfort that comes with our monthly cycle. But what happens when the symptoms become too severe, affecting our daily lives, relationships, and even ability to work or take care of our children?

For months I had been diligently tracking my cycle, my moods, my habits – anything I could think to try and discern why I would turn into a raging, unhinged, irrational lunatic every month.

It sounds dramatic, but truthfully, I felt like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.

This is where Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) comes in.

PMDD is a severe form of premenstrual disorder (PMS) that affects women’s mood, energy, and behaviors. The condition is often misunderstood and dismissed as an exaggerated version of PMS.

This is not the case.

PMDD affects approximately 5% of women in their reproductive years, making it a serious health concern that requires attention and care.

As Christian women, we know that faith and biblical principles can offer guidance and comfort in every aspect of our lives. But, is it true for mental health, too?

YES!

That’s why in this blog post, we will not only explore what PMDD is but also share educational resources and biblical principles that can help us cope with and overcome the condition.

Understanding PMDD

PMDD symptoms are linked to intense emotional and physical symptoms that typically arise in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. This luteal phase is usually about one to two weeks before the onset of menstruation or after ovulation.

Symptoms may look different for everyone but predominantly look like the following:

    • Severe mood changes (irritability, anger, depression, anxiety)
    • Extreme fatigue and loss of energy
    • Appetite changes and food cravings
    • Sleep disturbances
    • Physical symptoms (breast tenderness, bloating, joint or muscle pain)
    PMDD symptoms

    The diagnostic criteria for premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) are quite specific. In order to receive a diagnosis of PMDD, a woman must experience the five symptoms mentioned above, which include mood-related symptoms.

    It’s important to note that these symptoms must be severe enough to significantly interfere with daily activities, relationships, or work.

    Additionally, to confirm the diagnosis, it’s necessary to track these symptoms for at least two menstrual cycles. This careful monitoring helps healthcare professionals accurately assess and identify PMDD, enabling the implementation of targeted treatment plans to alleviate the impact of this condition on individuals’ lives.

    Coping with PMDD

    The challenge of coping with PMDD can indeed be daunting, particularly when the symptoms prove severe and disruptive to one’s daily life.

    Not to mention, it’s not something you care to broadcast to everyone. The severity of these symptoms is sometimes frightening and embarrassing.

    No one loves to admit that they are falling apart with no control.

    However, it’s important to remember that there are numerous resources and forms of support available to assist women in managing this condition. From lifestyle adjustments to medical interventions, there are various strategies that can be effective in alleviating the impact of PMDD.

    In addition to seeking support from healthcare professionals, individuals can also benefit from connecting with support groups and online communities where they can find understanding, empathy, and valuable insights from others who are navigating similar challenges.

    Embracing a multi-faceted approach to managing PMDD can empower individuals to gain control over their symptoms and improve their overall well-being.

    Some ways to cope include (but are not limited to) the following:

      • Medical treatment: This is never my personal first solution, but I am also a firm believer that everything has its time and place. Therefor, antidepressants, hormonal birth control, and other medications have been said to help alleviate the symptoms of PMDD. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of treatment.
      • Lifestyle changes: This is the harder, longer road to coping, but where I always aim to start. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and stress management techniques, such as praying and journaling, can also help alleviate PMDD symptoms.
      • Support groups and counseling: Connecting with other women who have PMDD or seeking professional counseling can provide emotional support and a safe space for sharing experiences and coping strategies. Mostly, it helps to know that you are, in fact, not crazy for experiencing these severe symptoms.

      PMDD and Biblical Principles

      As Christian women, we not only have modern medicine at our fingertips (literally, you can go to her.com and get an rx for PMDD delivered to your door if that is for you), but we can also turn to biblical principles for guidance and comfort during the challenges of PMDD.

      Here are some helpful principles to keep in mind:

        • Trust in God: I know, I know. You’re saying, “DUH, Nicole.” But truly, trusting in God is much easier said than done. Even when we don’t understand the reasons behind our struggles, we can trust that God has a plan and a purpose for our lives (Proverbs 3:5-6). I really love reading through Job or Lamentations when the depression really hits deep.
        • Find solace in scripture: The Bible is the living and active word of God. It is a source of immense comfort and wisdom, providing verses that can help ease anxiety and offer solace during difficult times. Scriptures such as Matthew 11:28-30 invite us to cast our burdens upon Jesus, who gives us rest. Psalms 34:17 assures us that the Lord hears the cries of the distressed and delivers them from their troubles, just as He delivered David through his fleeing from Saul.
        • Pray for strength and healing: Prayer is a powerful tool for seeking comfort, strength, and healing. James 5:13-16 encourages those who are suffering to pray, promising that the prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.
        • Cultivate faith and patience: This is definitely the hardest principle, personally. Dealing with PMDD may be a cross to bear for some women (like me), but the Bible encourages us to persevere in the face of trials. Romans 5:3-4 tells us that suffering produces perseverance, character, and ultimately, hope.
        PMDD scriptures
        PMDD scripture
        PMDD scripture
        PMDD scripture
        PMDD scripture

        Download these images and more from our FREE RESOURCE page!

        Helpful Resources for PMDD

        Here are some online resources that can provide more information and support for those dealing with PMDD:

          Here are some supplements I have been taking to help naturally control my hormone levels, gut health, and depression:

          *NOTE: Whenever trying new supplements, it is always very important to conduct your own research. I am not a doctor, nor do I claim to be. I am simply sharing my own personal experience and the tools and resources I have found helpful. While Doterra CPTG is 100% trusted, I always encourage you to do your own thorough research.

          Conclusion:

          PMDD is a challenging condition that can affect every aspect of a woman’s life. However, with the right support, resources, and guidance, women can manage the symptoms and improve their quality of life.

          As Christian women, we can also turn to biblical principles for comfort, guidance, and hope during the difficulties of PMDD.

          Remember, you are stronger than you know, braver than you think, and loved beyond measure.

          Community Connection

          If you found value in this post, or you personally struggle with PMDD, I encourage you to reach out and comment with a word of comfort!

          Make sure to check out the rest of our Wellness Wednesday posts.

          Join my online community HERE to get weekly updates so you don’t miss anything!

          PMDD community

          Loading

          Trackbacks

          Follow @iamanchoredbyhope