An Overview
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) treatment
A 2023 qualitative investigation published in BMC Women’s Health examined the experiences of 32 women with PMDD in the U.S. healthcare system. The study identified significant barriers to diagnosis and treatment, emphasizing the importance of self-advocacy and highlighting the absence of standardized diagnostic criteria and treatment guidelines.
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) that causes extreme emotional and physical symptoms in the weeks leading up to menstruation. While PMS affects many women with symptoms such as mood swings, bloating, and fatigue, PMDD is much more intense and can severely interfere with daily life. Symptoms of PMDD may include:
- Intense irritability or anger;
- Extreme mood swings or feelings of sadness;
- Anxiety and tension;
- Severe fatigue;
- Sleep disturbances (insomnia or sleeping too much);
- Changes in appetite (cravings, overeating, or loss of appetite);
- Physical symptoms such as headaches, joint or muscle pain, and bloating;
- Difficulty concentrating or feeling “out of it”;
- Thoughts of hopelessness or self-harm in extreme cases.
Unlike PMS, which is often manageable, PMDD can feel overwhelming and debilitating. At Compassion Recovery Centers, we provide specialized treatment for PMDD to help individuals alleviate symptoms, regain emotional balance, and improve their overall quality of life.
Comprehensive Care
Our approach to treating premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
Because PMDD is hormonally driven and affects both emotional and physical health, effective treatment must be multifaceted. At Compassion Recovery Centers, we combine evidence-based therapies, medication management, and holistic wellness practices to provide comprehensive care. Our goal is to help individuals manage the symptoms of PMDD and restore emotional and physical balance.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is highly effective in treating the mood disturbances that accompany PMDD. Through CBT, individuals learn to identify and challenge negative thought patterns that exacerbate feelings of anxiety, irritability, and depression. By restructuring negative thought processes, individuals can reduce emotional volatility and develop healthier ways of responding to stressful situations.
CBT also helps clients:
- Manage stress and anxiety.
- Improve coping strategies for emotional regulation.
- Challenge irrational beliefs about themselves or their symptoms.
In many cases, medications are necessary to help manage the symptoms of PMDD, particularly when symptoms are severe and interfere with daily functioning. Common medications used in treating PMDD include:
- Antidepressants (SSRIs or SNRIs): These medications are commonly prescribed to reduce mood-related symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and irritability. SSRIs and SNRIs can help stabilize mood during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle when PMDD symptoms are most intense.
- Hormonal Treatments: Hormonal therapies, such as birth control pills, hormone therapy, or GnRH agonists, can help regulate hormonal fluctuations that contribute to PMDD symptoms. These treatments aim to stabilize the hormonal cycle, reducing the severity of mood swings and other physical symptoms.
- Anti-Anxiety Medications: For individuals who experience significant anxiety or panic attacks with PMDD, anti-anxiety medications may be prescribed to alleviate these symptoms.
- Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): These medications can help reduce physical symptoms such as joint pain, headaches, and bloating.
Our experienced medical team works closely with each client to determine the most appropriate medication based on their symptoms, medical history, and overall treatment plan.
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) is an effective technique for managing the emotional and physical symptoms of PMDD. MBSR focuses on helping individuals develop greater awareness of their thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations in the present moment. By practicing mindfulness, clients can reduce anxiety, improve emotional regulation, and increase overall resilience to stress.
In MBSR, individuals learn to:
- Observe their thoughts and feelings without judgment.
- Focus on breathing exercises to calm the body and mind.
- Use body scans and other techniques to become more in tune with their physical and emotional experiences.
Diet and lifestyle changes can significantly improve the symptoms of PMDD. Nutritional counseling plays an important role in helping individuals understand how their diet and overall health impact their hormonal balance and mood. Common dietary recommendations include:
- Reducing caffeine and sugar intake to help stabilize mood and reduce irritability.
- Increasing magnesium and vitamin B6-rich foods to help reduce symptoms like fatigue, mood swings, and physical discomfort.
- Maintaining a balanced diet that includes whole foods, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats to support overall hormonal health.
Additionally, incorporating regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress-reducing activities (such as yoga or relaxation techniques) can help alleviate both physical and emotional symptoms of PMDD.
Group therapy provides an invaluable space for individuals with PMDD to connect with others who understand their struggles. By sharing experiences, coping strategies, and emotional support, participants can feel less isolated and more empowered in managing their symptoms. Group therapy also helps foster a sense of community and understanding, which is important for emotional healing.
Individuals dealing with PMDD can benefit from supportive counseling, which helps them better understand their condition and develop coping skills to manage their symptoms. Psychoeducation can be particularly beneficial in helping clients recognize the cyclical nature of their symptoms, allowing them to anticipate and plan for times when symptoms may worsen. By building awareness and knowledge, clients can feel more in control and reduce feelings of helplessness during difficult periods.
A free, thorough assessment is provided for each prospective client
Introduce yourself
With you every step
Why choose Compassion Recovery Centers for PMDD treatment?
Personalized care
We understand that every individual’s experience with PMDD is unique, and our treatment plans are tailored to meet each person’s specific needs. Whether it’s through therapy, medication, or lifestyle changes, we provide customized care to address the full spectrum of PMDD symptoms.
Holistic and integrated treatment
At Compassion Recovery Centers, we take a holistic approach to treating PMDD. We recognize the importance of balancing emotional, physical, and hormonal health, which is why we integrate therapy, medication, nutrition, and lifestyle strategies into our treatment programs. Our goal is to help you find lasting relief and build resilience to future challenges.
Experienced and compassionate team
Our team of therapists, counselors, and medical professionals are highly skilled in treating PMDD. We offer empathetic, non-judgmental care, ensuring that clients feel understood and supported every step of the way.
Peaceful and supportive environment
Our center in Southern California provides a calm, nurturing environment that fosters healing and recovery. Clients can take comfort in knowing they have a safe, supportive space to explore their treatment options and focus on their emotional well-being.
Our Program Defined
We believe recovery is always possible
We strive to offer the best treatment experience and believe that through our proven program, that we can help you not only overcome mental illness, but achieve a fulfilling life full of gratitude and compassion beyond what seems possible at the beginning of your path to recovery.
Recovery Awaits
Begin your journey to relief
If you or a loved one is struggling with the emotional and physical challenges of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, Compassion Recovery Centers is here to help. Our PMDD Treatment Program offers the support, strategies, and care you need to reduce symptoms and reclaim your life.
Contact us today to learn more about our treatment options and take the first step toward managing PMDD and living a balanced, fulfilled life.
