How to Cope With PMDD

Most women experience PMS (premenstrual syndrome) at some point in their lives--some periodically and some chronically. Fortunately fewer women experience PMDD, or premenstrual dysphoric disorder. PMDD is a condition that is influenced by hormonal cycles and can cause significant emotional and mental distress, as well as physical pain.

Instructions

1. Seek medical help. If the week or so preceding your period brings intense mood swings, depression, anxiety, irritability and/or physical pain, visit your family doctor or obstetrician/gynecologist (ob/gyn). She can evaluate whether you are merely suffering from PMS or if you are one of the 5 percent of women who have PMDD. Your doctor can help you plan your method of alleviating this condition.

2. Take proper medications. Depending on which symptoms you are experiencing with PMDD, your doctor may prescribe one or more drugs. Medications for depression and anxiety can help to stabilize your mood. Pain relievers and diuretics target the physical problems associated with PMDD. Currently the FDA has endorsed three drugs for the treatment of PMDD: fluoxetine (Sarafem), sertraline (Zoloft), and paroxetine controlled-release (Paxil CR). Take your medication only as directed, and make sure your doctor knows about any medications that you may be currently taking.

3. Speak with a counselor and/or psychiatrist. Your family doctor or ob/gyn may not be highly skilled in treating all the components of mental and emotional pain that accompany PMDD. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in these types of problems and can prescribe appropriate medication. While counselors and therapists are not licensed to prescribe medicine, they can offer emotional support and helpful strategies in coping with this disorder.

4. Make healthy lifestyle choices. Choose healthy foods like fruits, vegetables and lean meats. Limit caffeine and alcohol, and stop smoking. Make sure your weight is within healthy guidelines. Decrease stress by exercising regularly, forming and maintaining healthy relationships and participating in activities you enjoy. Maximizing your overall physical and emotional health will help you to better cope with PMDD.

5. Find a supportive community. Talk to your doctor to see if there are any local support groups for women suffering with PMDD. You also can check your local newspaper for support group listings.The Daily Strength website offers a host of online support groups, including one for PMDD (see Resources). Many churches also have counseling services and supportive groups that meet regularly. If you already consider yourself to be a spiritual person or if you are willing to give it a try, prayer, meditation and participating in a religious community can offer strength as well.

Resources

• Daily Strength