PMDD isn’t simply “bad PMS,” being overly emotional, or something you should be able to control with willpower. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder can cause severe changes in mood, anxiety, irritability, concentration, and behavior that occur cyclically around the menstrual cycle. At Amen Clinics, SPECT imaging of one patient at different points in her cycle revealed striking changes in brain activity. During her most symptomatic time, areas involved in emotion and getting stuck on negative thoughts were working harder, while regions involved in impulse control and mood stability showed lower activity. This is why understanding the timing and pattern of symptoms matters. PMDD can overlap with depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions, making a comprehensive evaluation important. If you feel like a different person during part of your cycle, your symptoms deserve to be taken seriously. Learn more about PMDD and brain health at the link in bio. #pms #pmdd #cyclesyncing ...