Vicky Pattison, known for her appearances on reality television, has bravely shared her deeply personal battle with Pre-Menstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), revealing the profound impact it had on her mental health. Speaking out, Pattison described periods where she felt she was 'slowly slipping into insanity', shedding light on a condition that remains misunderstood by many and significantly affects the lives of those diagnosed.
PMDD is a severe and chronic health condition with symptoms that appear in the week or two before a woman's period and disappear a few days after her period starts. According to the NHS, while many women experience some premenstrual symptoms, PMDD is much more debilitating, causing extreme mood shifts that can disrupt daily life, relationships, and work. Symptoms can include severe depression, anxiety, irritability, panic attacks, extreme fatigue, and physical discomfort, often far exceeding typical premenstrual syndrome.
Pattison's account details her arduous journey to finding help and a diagnosis, a common challenge for individuals with PMDD. Many report feeling dismissed or misdiagnosed with other mental health conditions due to the cyclical nature of PMDD symptoms, making accurate identification crucial. Her openness aims to raise awareness and encourage others who recognise these symptoms to persist in seeking medical advice.
Diagnosis typically involves tracking symptoms over several menstrual cycles to identify a clear pattern. Healthcare professionals, guided by evidence-based recommendations from bodies like the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), can help manage the condition through various approaches. These may include lifestyle changes, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and medication, such as antidepressants (SSRIs) or hormonal treatments. It is crucial for anyone experiencing these severe symptoms to consult their GP for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate medical advice, as treatment plans are highly individualised.