Spiraling every month on repeat while your clawing your way out from the singed ashes of self sabotage …can be utterly exhausting. But first… you aren’t alone. But second, why is it happening? And.. what is it?? 

Well, maybe it’s PMDD. Or maybe even PME. 
Let’s explore both options and why it matters: Getting the label right guides treatment and can help prepare you for what to expect each month 

PMS (milder)

• You’re snappy and crampy for a day or two, but still functioning at work/school. Maybe even some fatigue. 

• Once your period starts, you’re fine.

PMDD (severe + cyclical)

• Timing: 5–14 days before bleeding

• Impact: inability to concentrate, calling out of work, fights, relationship difficulties, despair, panic, sensory overwhelm, irrational rage, aggression, combativeness, brain fog, extreme fatigue, irritability, self loathing, sensitivity to rejection and criticism, hopelessness, suicidal ideation

• Relief: symptoms lift soon after bleeding begins

PME (premenstrual exacerbation)

• You have another condition (e.g., MDD, GAD, ADHD, auto immune illness etc). It’s present all month, but worsens pre-period. May experience typical PmDd symptoms on top of the elevated symptoms from other illnesses.

• Treatment often targets the base condition + timing tweaks (e.g., med adjustments luteal-phase)

Quick self-check

• Do symptoms vanish after bleeding starts? (PMDD clue)

• Are symptoms present most days with a luteal spike? (PME clue)

If you suspect you might have PMDD or PME, you aren’t alone. We’re here to answer any questions you may have. Click the green button on the right hand side and request to take our PMDD quiz and we will send you a link. 
Until next time, I’ll be thinking of you… 

With empathy, strength, and love. And remember… 

I’ll be here when the world feels heavy. Always 💙