The Stress of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) | Briana Bass LPC-A

The Stress of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD): Shedding Light on a Silent Struggle

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a debilitating condition that affects millions of women worldwide. Unlike the more common premenstrual syndrome (PMS), PMDD goes beyond mild discomfort, manifesting as severe emotional and physical symptoms that significantly disrupt daily life. As someone dedicated to the field of Clinical Sexology, my mission is to raise awareness about PMDD and provide support for those affected by this often overlooked condition.

PMDD can feel like an uphill battle, with symptoms ranging from intense mood swings and irritability to physical discomfort such as bloating and fatigue. These symptoms can take a toll on personal relationships, work performance, and overall well-being. However, by understanding and addressing PMDD, individuals can take steps towards managing their symptoms and reclaiming control over their lives.

Here are three essential tips for individuals grappling with PMDD:

1. Track Your Symptoms: Keeping a detailed journal of your symptoms can provide valuable insights into your menstrual cycle and help identify patterns of PMDD. By tracking mood fluctuations, physical symptoms, and other relevant factors such as diet and exercise, you can work with healthcare professionals to develop personalized management strategies.

2. Seek Support: Living with PMDD can feel isolating, but you are not alone. Reach out to friends, family members, or support groups who can offer understanding and encouragement. Additionally, consider seeking professional help from therapists or counselors experienced in treating PMDD. A supportive network can make a significant difference in coping with the challenges of this condition.

3. Prioritize Self-Care: Self-care practices play a crucial role in managing PMDD symptoms and promoting overall well-being. Establishing healthy habits such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition, adequate sleep, and stress-reduction techniques can help alleviate symptoms and improve resilience. Remember to prioritize activities that bring you joy and relaxation, whether it's reading a book, practicing mindfulness, or spending time outdoors.

By adopting a holistic approach that addresses the medical, psychological, and lifestyle aspects of PMDD, individuals can take meaningful steps towards managing their symptoms and enhancing their quality of life. Together, we can break the silence surrounding PMDD and create a more supportive and understanding environment for those affected by this challenging condition.

In my pursuit of a doctorate in Clinical Sexology, I am committed to heloing those with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), a condition that severely impacts the lives of many women. Unlike the common premenstrual syndrome (PMS), PMDD involves extreme emotional and physical symptoms that can disrupt a woman's ability to function in her daily life. My goal is to shed light on this intense condition, providing both insight and support to those affected. Through my work, I aim to educate and empower individuals and their families about the realities of living with PMDD, elevating the conversation beyond mere medical facts to encompass the lived experiences of those affected.

5 Tips for Emotional Management through Prayer | Dr. Jada Jackson LMHC, LPC-S

In a world filled with uncertainties, worries, and anxieties, finding solace and peace can seem like an elusive pursuit. However, amidst the chaos, there's a timeless piece of wisdom that advocates for a shift in perspective: "Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything." This is a powerful approach to my daily life; simple yet profound, this advice carries immense weight when it comes to managing my emotions and navigating through life's challenges.

I’d like to share five tips for emotional management inspired by this powerful biblical principle:

1. Release Control and Surrender: Often, our worries stem from a desire to control outcomes beyond our reach. However, I try not to micromanage every aspect of my life because it only leads to stress and anxiety. Instead, everyday I’m learning to practice surrendering control and entrusting my deepest concerns to Jesus Christ through prayer and meditation. Letting go of the need to control every outcome frees us from unnecessary burdens and allows us to focus on what truly matters.

2. Cultivate Gratitude and Perspective: Prayer provides an opportunity to express gratitude for the blessings in your life, no matter how small they may seem. Taking the time to acknowledge the good things around you shifts your perspective from focusing solely on worries to recognizing the abundance and beauty that exists. I’ve grown to realize and accept that gratitude strengthens resilience and helps us navigate challenges with a positive outlook.

3. Seek Guidance and Clarity: When faced with difficult decisions or uncertain situations, prayer serves as a means to seek guidance and clarity. Instead of allowing worries to cloud my judgment, I turn to the power of prayer to gain insight and wisdom. I’d like to encourage you to trust that by surrendering your concerns to God, you'll receive the clarity needed to make informed choices and navigate through life's complexities. Let go of the need to control everything, especially those things you cannot control.

4. Practice Mindfulness and Presence: Remember, prayer encourages mindfulness and presence by inviting you to be fully engaged in the present moment. Rather than dwelling on past regrets or worrying about the future, immerse yourself in the here and now through prayer. Pay attention to your thoughts, emotions, and surroundings, allowing yourself to experience a sense of peace and tranquility in the present moment.

5. Embrace Faith and Trust: At the heart of "Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything" lies the most important message of faith and trust. By embracing faith in Jesus Christ and trust that everything unfolds according to His greater plan for your life. By placing your trust in God’s divine providence, you relinquish the need to worry incessantly and find comfort in knowing that you're not alone in your journey.

"Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." - 1 Peter 5:7 (NIV)*

In conclusion, incorporating prayer and meditation into your life offers a powerful framework for emotional management. By following these five tips inspired by the mantra "Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything," you can cultivate inner peace, resilience, and a deeper connection to the divine amidst life's ups and downs. Remember, in moments of uncertainty, prayer serves as a beacon of hope and a source of strength to navigate through life's challenges with grace and resilience.

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (NIV)

Author: Dr. Jada Jackskon LMHC, LPC-S