Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a severe and complex form of premenstrual syndrome that affects many women worldwide.
Neha Bhasin, renowned singer and former contestant on Big Boss OTT, recently chose to open up about her personal struggles with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder through an emotionally charged post on her Instagram account. In her heartfelt message, she revealed that she has been grappling with this debilitating condition since her teenage years, highlighting the profound impact it has had on her life. In 2022, Neha faced challenges with low progesterone levels, which she explained significantly exacerbated her mental health difficulties. Expressing her vulnerability, she stated in the caption, “I don’t feel very comfortable writing about my life in this manner, to open up to speculation especially when I am healing is not my idea of fun but it can be unfair to be in pain and to be subjected to more pain and expect to always endure in silence. May this world be a better place for you and me. Much love and light.”
Look at the post shared by her about struggles with PMDD:
What is PMDD?
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a severe and often debilitating form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) that significantly impacts both emotional and physical health. This condition emerges during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, which occurs after ovulation and before menstruation, and typically resolves with the onset of menstruation. PMDD can severely disrupt daily activities, interpersonal relationships, and one’s overall mental well-being, manifesting in symptoms such as intense mood swings, heightened irritability, debilitating depression, anxiety, fatigue, and various physical discomforts including bloating and breast tenderness.
Dr. Joshi further elaborated on the symptoms to be vigilant for in PMDD:
1. Low mood, depression and feeling of lack of self-worth
2. Increased anxiety, agitation
3. Pronounced mood swings
4. Feelings of inferiority, vulnerability to negative responses
5. Crying over trivial matters
6. Heightened irritability, anger, and temper tantrums
7. Conflicts or disagreements with family members, coworkers, or friends
8. Withdrawal from regular activities that once were enjoyable
9. Lack of concentration, often accompanied by mental fog
10. Persistent lethargy or pronounced lack of energy
11. Binge eating or strong cravings for specific foods
12. Changes in sleep patterns, including excessive sleeping or insomnia
13. Symptoms of water retention, such as breast tenderness, weight gain, and noticeable bloating
Presence of at least five of these symptoms consistently before menstruation over a two-year span can be indicative of PMDD.
Causes
- Hormonal fluctuations that heavily impact mood
- Serotonin dysregulation, exacerbating emotional symptoms
- Genetic predispositions that may lead to PMDD
- Underlying mental health conditions that complicate the diagnosis
- Poor lifestyle choices that can contribute to symptom severity
Regarding the treatment, she elaborates, “it is usually treated by lifestyle measures. Weight reduction through a balanced diet and regular physical activity, along with practices like yoga and meditation, play crucial roles in managing anxiety and anger. Occasionally, hormonal treatments or psychiatric medications may be required to enhance quality of life and familial bonds.”
Prevention tips
- Focus on incorporating whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, and an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables into your diet.
- Limit caffeine, sugar, and alcohol intake to stabilize mood swings.
- Participate in aerobic exercises like walking, running, or yoga to improve emotional well-being and reduce PMDD symptoms.
- Engage in mindfulness practices, meditation, or deep breathing exercises to effectively manage stress levels.
- Ensure consistent quality sleep for 7-8 hours each night to help stabilize mood and energy.
- Maintain a menstrual diary to identify patterns and predict the onset of symptoms.
- Reduce sodium intake to minimize bloating and fluid retention.
- Adopt a holistic healthy lifestyle focused on balanced diet, regular exercise, and effective stress management.
Keep these insights in mind to foster better overall mental and physical health.
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
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What are the common symptoms of PMDD and how can they affect daily life?
**Interview with Neha Bhasin on Her Journey with PMDD**
*Interviewer: Thank you for joining us today, Neha. You recently opened up about your struggles with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) on social media. What motivated you to share your story?*
**Neha Bhasin:** Thank you for having me. I’ve always believed in the power of vulnerability and honesty. There are so many women suffering in silence with PMDD and other mental health issues. I wanted to break that silence, to show that it’s okay to not be okay, and to encourage others to seek help and share their experiences.
*Interviewer: You mentioned that you’ve been battling PMDD since your teenage years. How has this affected your personal and professional life?*
**Neha Bhasin:** PMDD has significantly impacted my life. There were days when I couldn’t get out of bed, let alone perform. It has affected my relationships as well; mood swings and irritability can create distance between loved ones. The more I learn about it, the better I understand its impact, but it’s a constant challenge.
*Interviewer: You shared that in 2022, low progesterone levels exacerbated your symptoms. Can you explain how hormonal fluctuations can influence PMDD?*
**Neha Bhasin:** Definitely. Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle have a huge impact on mood. When progesterone is low, it can intensify feelings of anxiety and depression. I’ve learned that understanding my body and working with my healthcare provider to manage these hormonal fluctuations is crucial for my mental health.
*Interviewer: In your Instagram post, you expressed the discomfort of sharing such personal experiences. What message do you hope your followers take away from your story?*
**Neha Bhasin:** I want to convey that it’s okay to talk about mental health. Sharing my journey isn’t easy, but it’s important. I hope it brings awareness to PMDD and encourages those experiencing similar struggles to speak up and seek support. No one should feel isolated in their pain.
*Interviewer: As someone in the public eye, do you feel there is a stigma surrounding mental health, particularly when it comes to conditions like PMDD?*
**Neha Bhasin:** Absolutely, there’s still a stigma. Many people don’t understand the severity of PMDD and often dismiss it as just another PMS complaint. This lack of understanding can make it harder for women to seek help. I hope that by being open about my experiences, we can foster more compassion and awareness.
*Interviewer: Lastly, what advice would you give to someone who thinks they might be experiencing PMDD?*
**Neha Bhasin:** Don’t hesitate to talk to a healthcare professional about your symptoms. Keep a diary of your moods and any physical symptoms; this can help in diagnosis and treatment. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey, and there is help available.
*Interviewer: Thank you, Neha, for sharing your story and insights on PMDD. Your courage in speaking out is truly inspiring.*
**Neha Bhasin:** Thank you for having me! I hope my story encourages others to seek the help they deserve.