PREMENSTRUAL DYSPHORIA

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A small percentage of menstruating women experience a 'monthly depression' triggered by hormonal changes related to the menstrual cycle.

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Symptoms can include emotional regulation difficulty evidenced by: mood swings, sudden feelings of sadness or tearfulness or increased sensitivity to rejection, significant irritability or anger or increased interpersonal conflict, significant depressed mood, feelings of hopelessness or self-critical thinking, feelings of anxiety, tension or of being 'on edge', loss of interest in usual pursuits, problems with concentration, low energy or lethargy, increased appetite, hypersomnia or insomnia, feelings of being overwhelmed.

 

Some individuals with Premenstrual Dysphoria experience physical symptoms such as breast tenderness or swelling, joint or muscle pain, or a feeling of being bloated.

 

The symptoms of Premenstrual Dysphoria often lead to a reduction in usual functioning in key spheres such as work, school, social connectedness and may impact on productivity and efficiency of the individual suffering from this depressive disorder.