Recently, I was diagnosed by my gynecologist with Pre-Menstrual Dysphoric Disorder, also known as PMDD. For many years, I had been erroneously diagnosed with various conditions, including bi-polar disorder, major depressive disorder, and, after the birth of my son, post-partum depression with psychological features.
None of these diagnoses appeared to fit my symptoms, until a short while ago, when I was fortunately enough to finally discover that I actually was experiencing PMDD (pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder.) Once my gynecologist pinpointed the fact that I was not merely "depressed," my situation began to suddenly make more sense to me, as well as my family.
From the young age of eighteen, I can remember becoming extremely cross with my boyfriend, right around the time that my menstrual period began. I did not want to be anywhere in his vicinity when I started menstruating. This was mainly due to the horrific cramps that I experienced, but I sensed that there was a strong possibility that something else could be happening to me.
I went on to give birth to my first (and only) child, at the age of just twenty-two. At the time of my son's birth, I experienced many sleepless nights, panic attacks, and much doubt as to whether or not I would succeed at becoming a "good" mother.
I subsequently divorced my son's father, and went on to marry my current husband, who, fortunately, became determined to discover the source of my rage. After extended research, my husband was able to conclude, with the approval of my psychiatrist, that I would be better-suited with a regimen of homeopathic treatments, which for me, include: a daily dosage of the following supplements: two Omega 3's, which contain fish oil; two Calcium / Magnesium / Zinc supplements; and one Centrum Silver. Centrum Silver has a particularly high dosage of vitamins B-12 and B-6.
This rule of homeopathic treatments, in addition to an exercise routine of at least 30 minutes of walking per day, has proven to be an extremely beneficial treatment for PMDD for me.
Although, for now, I continue to have some "bad" days, where my mood is not exactly where I would prefer it to be, I am extremely happy to report that the "good" days now outweigh the "bad" days. If you are experiencing symptoms of PMDD, such as sudden rage, mood-swings, depression, and sadness prior to your menstrual periods, I would strongly encourage you to contact your gynecologist for a thorough examination. It's also a good idea to keep track of your moods for at least three of your menses.
I hope that your gynecologist / psychiatrist will be able to assist you in the first steps on your road to recovery.