PMDD Is More Than PMS: Why Severe Premenstrual Symptoms Need Urgent Care

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a severe cyclical condition that can cause intense depression, anxiety, irritability, fatigue and suicidal thoughts in the days before a period. Unlike ordinary PMS, symptoms usually ease shortly after menstruation begins and can seriously disrupt work, school, relationships and daily life. Nigerian women living with PMDD describe years of mistaking the condition for stress, depression or typical period symptoms. Many say they were dismissed when they sought help, while the high cost and limited availability of mental-health care made diagnosis and treatment harder to access. Tracking symptoms across menstrual cycles can help identify the pattern. Treatment may include therapy, antidepressants prescribed by a qualified clinician, hormonal options and lifestyle support. Anyone experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide should seek immediate help from a trusted person, a mental-health professional or an emergency support service.

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