Do you struggle with PMDD?

Today’s topic that we are diving into is Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) and how a functional approach to holistic nutrition and psychotherapy can make a world of difference.

Mandy Rother, RD a passionate Registered Dietician and Founder of "Reveal Functional Nutrition," recently joined us at Head First Health (HFH) to share her expertise and vision for supporting individuals with PMDD. So, let's dig in and explore the key points we discussed during Mandy's session!

Mandy's dedication to bridging the gap between conventional and holistic healthcare truly resonated with us at HFH. Her approach to PMDD revolves around empowering individuals through a root-cause perspective, allowing them to make informed choices and participate in their own healing journey within a supportive community.

During her presentation, Mandy began by addressing common questions that individuals with PMDD may have. She emphasized the importance of education and awareness, providing clarity on the signs, symptoms, and impact of PMDD. This knowledge empowers individuals to understand and recognize their own experiences, fostering a sense of validation and relief.

Understanding the symptoms of PMDD is crucial for both individuals and their support networks. Mandy guided us through a comprehensive exploration of the wide range of physical, emotional, and behavioral symptoms that can accompany PMDD (see below). By shining a light on these manifestations, we gained a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with PMDD and can offer more informed support.

One fascinating aspect that Mandy delved into was the connection between PMDD symptoms and the four stages of the menstrual cycle. By exploring how symptoms fluctuate throughout the cycle, individuals can gain insights into their own patterns and anticipate when symptoms may intensify. This knowledge equips them with strategies to manage their symptoms proactively, leading to a greater sense of control over their well-being.

What are the Symptoms of PMDD?

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a condition that affects some individuals during the menstrual cycle. It is characterized by a range of physical, emotional, and behavioral symptoms that can significantly impact daily life. While PMDD shares some similarities with Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS), the symptoms of PMDD are generally more severe and can interfere with normal functioning. Let's take a closer look at the main symptoms associated with PMDD:

1. Mood swings: PMDD often leads to intense mood swings, marked by sudden shifts in emotions. Individuals may experience feelings of sadness, irritability, anger, or even hopelessness. These mood swings can be severe and may disrupt personal relationships or daily activities.

2. Anxiety: Many individuals with PMDD experience heightened levels of anxiety during the premenstrual phase. They may feel restless, on edge, or excessively worried. Anxiety symptoms can manifest as physical sensations like a racing heart, shortness of breath, or a sense of impending doom.

3. Depression: PMDD can trigger episodes of depression, leading to feelings of sadness, emptiness, or a loss of interest in activities once enjoyed. Individuals may experience changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating.

4. Irritability and anger: PMDD can intensify feelings of irritability and anger, leading to increased sensitivity to everyday stressors. Individuals may find themselves easily agitated, quick to anger, or prone to outbursts. This emotional volatility can strain relationships and impact overall well-being.

5. Fatigue: Many individuals with PMDD report experiencing significant fatigue and low energy levels. This can manifest as physical tiredness, mental exhaustion, and a general lack of motivation to engage in daily activities.

6. Physical symptoms: PMDD can also present with a variety of physical symptoms, including bloating, breast tenderness or swelling, headaches, joint or muscle pain, and changes in appetite or food cravings. These symptoms can contribute to a sense of discomfort and further impact an individual's overall well-being.

7. Difficulty concentrating: PMDD may affect cognitive function, leading to difficulties with concentration, memory, and decision-making. Individuals may feel mentally foggy or find it challenging to stay focused on tasks.

It's important to note that PMDD symptoms typically occur during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, which starts after ovulation and lasts until the onset of menstruation. These symptoms tend to subside once menstruation begins, and individuals often experience a relief from the distressing emotional and physical manifestations.

It was vital for Mandy to address a common misconception—that PMDD is "all in your head." She emphasized that PMDD is not a psychological construct but a genuine biological condition. The hormonal and chemical reactions occurring within the body contribute to the distressing symptoms experienced by individuals with PMDD. By highlighting the scientific basis behind PMDD, Mandy sought to dispel any doubts and reinforce the importance of validating the experiences of those affected.

Mandy's functional approach to supporting individuals with PMDD involves a combination of holistic dietitian services and psychotherapy. This comprehensive approach recognizes the interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being and emphasizes the importance of addressing both aspects simultaneously. By nourishing the body with a tailored and balanced diet, individuals can support their overall health and mitigate PMDD symptoms. Pairing this with psychotherapy helps individuals develop coping strategies, enhance self-awareness, and cultivate resilience in the face of PMDD challenges.

Mandy's vision to bridge the gap between conventional and holistic healthcare aligns perfectly with the values we hold at HFH. By embracing a root-cause approach, she empowers individuals to explore their unique needs, make informed choices, and actively participate in their healing process. The power of choice, combined with the support of a healing community, can be truly transformative.

So, if you or someone you know is grappling with PMDD, consider taking a functional approach to your journey of healing. Mandy Rother's expertise and holistic dietitian services combined with psychotherapy at Head First Health can offer a comprehensive and empowering path forward. Her commitment to addressing the biological aspects of PMDD validates the experiences of individuals and promotes a deeper understanding of this complex condition.

PMDD is not something to be dismissed or trivialized. It's a real and challenging condition that deserves attention and support. By understanding the main symptoms, we can promote awareness, empathy, and effective strategies for managing PMDD's impact on our lives.

Are you looking for support for PMDD?

At Head First Health, our mission is to empower individuals to cultivate a positive outlook and live happier, healthier lives. We understand that mental health is an integral part of overall wellness, and we are dedicated to providing comprehensive and effective therapy services to support you on your journey toward a healthier mind.

Our team of experienced therapists employs evidence-based techniques and personalized approaches to help you overcome challenges, manage stress, and develop resilience. With a focus on positivity and growth, we strive to create a safe and nurturing environment where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.

You are choosing a path toward greater self-awareness, emotional balance, and a renewed sense of purpose by choosing Head First Health. Let our therapy to change mindset guide you toward a more positive and fulfilling life.

Whether it be for positive mindset therapy, teletherapy in Chicago, counseling services in Chicago, or our mindset coaching, you'll be so glad you went to Head First Health for your therapy needs.