Understanding and dealing with Menstrual Depression
Menstrual depression refers to the emotional and physical symptoms that occur before or during menstruation. It can lead to intense mood swings, irritability, anxiety, sadness, and other debilitating symptoms that interfere with daily functioning. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder(PMDD) is the clinical diagnosis for severe menstrual depression, and it can affect a woman’s mental health, relationships, and overall quality of life.
COMMON SYMPTOMS:
INTENSE MOOD SWINGS: Extreme irritability, sadness, or anger.
HEAVY FATIGUE: Persistent tiredness that doesn’t improve with rest.
ANXIETY: Increased stress or nervousness, often without a clear cause.
PHYSICAL PAIN: Cramps, headaches, and muscle aches.
SLEEPING TROUBLES: Difficulty falling or staying asleep, or sleeping excessively.
APPETITE CHANGES: Overeating or lack of appetite.
IMPACT ON A WOMAN’S LIFE
SOCIAL ISOLATION: Women may feel disconnected from family, friends, and colleagues due to mood swings or physical discomfort.
WORK IMPACT: Difficulty concentrating or completing tasks, affecting job performance.
RELATIONSHIP STRAIN: The emotional toll can strain personal relationships, causing misunderstandings and conflicts.
CULTURAL STIGMA:
In many cultures, menstruation is stigmatised, often viewed as a taboo subject. Women experiencing menstrual depression may be told to avoid certain activities, attend certain places, or keep their condition hidden due to societal beliefs about menstruation. This cultural stigma can intensify feelings of isolation and shame, making the mental and emotional impact of menstrual depression even more challenging to cope with.
MANAGING MENSTRUAL DEPRESSION:
MAINTAIN A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE: Balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and proper sleep can help reduce symptoms.
PRACTICE STRESS MANAGEMENT: Techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing can help manage anxiety and irritability.
BUILD A SUPPORT SYSTEM: Having a strong network of friends, family, or support groups can provide much-needed understanding and encouragement.
EDUCATE OTHERS: Raise awareness about menstrual health to combat stigma and create more supportive environments for women.
The writer, Mrs Uzoamaka Nwachukwu is the Co-Founder of Cope and Live Mental Health Awareness Foundation. She is an Ex-Intelligence Officer, Administrative Assistant, Child Psychologist, Microbiologist, Grief & Bereavement counsellor, Depression counsellor, Emotional Intelligence Life coach, Psychotherapist, EMDR therapist, CBT Life coach.
If things are getting out of hand, please call us on +234 814 831 8965 or send us an Email at: info@copeandlive.foundation