TV personality Vicky Pattison recently revealed that she has been diagnosed with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), a condition that has been causing her to battle with “dark thoughts” and overwhelming “exhaustion”.
PMDD is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and is characterized by a range of distressing symptoms, including insomnia, extreme fatigue, depression, mood swings, and feelings of extreme hopelessness.
Years of Struggle and Diagnosis
Pattison, aged 35, shared her health update on Instagram, where she opened up about her struggle with the condition.
She expressed that her PMS symptoms had been increasingly unmanageable over the past five years, affecting various aspects of her life, including relationships and work.
The intensity of her symptoms had led her to question her own sanity during certain periods of the month.
During these difficult times, Pattison revealed, “Sometimes, when I’m properly in the midst of this and totally consumed by my own dark thoughts, I convince myself that I’m never going to get better, that these feelings & thoughts aren’t temporary.
That this is who I am now.
And that terrifies me.”
Challenges and Lack of Understanding
Pattison also spoke about the challenges she faced while seeking medical help.
She felt dismissed and labeled as “hysterical” by the medical community, downplaying the physical and mental toll that her condition was taking on her.
This lack of understanding added to her frustration and sense of hopelessness.
A Turning Point: Diagnosis and Hope
After reaching a breaking point, Pattison sought private medical care and was finally diagnosed with PMDD.
This diagnosis was a significant turning point for her, as she felt validated and heard in a medical setting for the first time in years.
She described her relief in tears, stating, “I cried because I felt f*ing heard in a medical setting for the first time in years and also I cried because hopefully now I can start trying to manage this rather than just ‘get on with it’ like I feel like women are expected to.”
Pattison shared that this diagnosis has given her a newfound sense of positivity and hope.
Raising Awareness and Support
Pattison’s openness about her journey with PMDD has resonated with many, leading to an outpouring of support from her followers and friends.
By shedding light on the condition, she has brought attention to the challenges faced by individuals dealing with PMDD and has encouraged conversations about women’s health.
In conclusion, Vicky Pattison’s courageous revelation about her battle with PMDD highlights the importance of understanding and addressing women’s health issues.
Her story serves as a reminder that seeking help, receiving a proper diagnosis, and raising awareness can make a significant difference in the lives of those affected by such conditions.