Today’s blog features Angela who is a blogger from Scotland. Angela tells us about her struggles with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder which she suffers from during her monthly cycle.

I was diagnosed in 2014 with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder which is linked to my monthly cycle.

The condition causes both physical and psychological symptoms that affect daily life. Doctors say it is rare, but I don’t believe that is the case.

Before my diagnosis I was told it was just “normal anxiety” and the relationship with my husband almost fell apart, I missed out on days out with my children during 2014 as I was too scared to leave the house.

I hardly saw my friends, but at the same time, I was lucky that everyone was there for me.

I haven’t worked since 2013 but, I hope to get back to work soon. I am currently studying for a health and social care degree at Open University, and I also write my own blog.

I have submitted a petition to the Scottish Parliament asking them for better access to psychological services across Scotland, and the outcome of the inquiries has been used to form Scotland’s new mental health strategy.

To find out more about Angela’s campaign check out her story in the Cumbernauld News.

Physical Symptoms
bloating
abdominal pain
headaches
backache
muscle and joint pain
breast pain
trouble sleeping
feeling sick

Psychological Symptoms
the feeling of being hopeless
anxiousness
irritability
oversleeping or not sleeping at all
lack of interest in favourite activities
no motivation
no energy
problems concentrating or focusing
feeling overwhelmed
a severe manifestation of physical symptoms (as above)
Suicidal thoughts

If you suffer from Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder or you recognise some of the above symptoms in yourself go and check out Angela’s Mental Health Blog, comment below or join in the discussions on our social media pages.
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