Education only; involve a clinician for diagnosis or treatment.
Hey there, it’s Jess here. Part time “psycho”, full time PMDD advocate.
I know how confusing it can be watching your teen ride what feels like emotional tidal waves every month. One minute they’re laughing, the next they’re in tears or slamming their door, and you tell yourself, this is normal. This is the hormonal years that everyone warned me about. But what if it isn’t? What if it’s something more? Something far more sinister and debilitating?
If your teen’s intense moods seem to roll in like clockwork before their period, it could be PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder) …a life altering, cycle-linked mood disorder that affects both the brain and the body.
⚠️ Signs to Watch For
These can vary, but some common ones include:
- Sudden, severe mood swings
- Crying spells or rage outbursts
- School avoidance or social withdrawal
- Deep sadness or hopelessness that seems to appear “out of nowhere”
- Symptoms that consistently show up a week or two before their period begins
- Suicidal ideation
- Rejection sensitivity
- Sensitivity to criticism
- Paranoia
- and more
If you’re nodding along right now, it’s time to start tracking your teen’s cycle.
How to Track (Teen-Friendly Style)
No fancy app required — though they can help! Just start simple:
- Mark period dates on a calendar or in a notes app.
- Each day, jot down emotions, energy levels, or standout behaviors.
- After a few cycles, look for patterns… do the tough days happen before their period starts?
FAQs
“Is it just hormones?”
Well, yes and no. Hormones definitely play a part — but PMDD happens when the brain reacts differently to those shifts. So it’s not about being dramatic or “too sensitive.” It’s a real physiological response.
“Will it go away?”
Many improve with the right tools, lifestyle changes, and treatment. Some even identify their root cause and manage symptoms down to mild PMS levels. There’s hope …truly. 💙
💗 A Gentle Reminder For Families
This part’s important: gentleness is everything.
Rejection sensitivity often shows up with PMDD, which means harsh reactions or judgment can worsen symptom severity. Lead with patience and compassion …even when you’re tired, confused, or frustrated (and you will be sometimes).
Your teen doesn’t WANT to feel this way. They need safety, love, and understanding to navigate PMDD.
If you think your teen may have PMDD, reach out to their doctor or a mental health provider familiar with mood disorders.
If you want to hear more stories, tools, and support for both teens and parents navigating PMDD, explore our other blogs. You’re not alone in this. 💙
