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'Like a bereavement every month' — the extreme emotions of PMDD
'Like a bereavement every month' — the extreme emotions of PMDD
'Like a bereavement every month' — the extreme emotions of PMDD
Saturday 3rd June 2023
Follow Laura Murphy's journey through PMDD, from despair to advocacy, and learn about the challenges of diagnosing and treating this disorder.
29 minutes
Resilience
Hope
Informative
Empowering
Supportive
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ABC Radio
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Mindfulness & Emotional Wellbeing
Mindful Recovery
Sexual Stigmas & Myths
Mindfulness & Technology in Health
Parenting & Children
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Get the buttons here!Laura's Battle with PMDD: Finding Light in the Darkness
Episode Overview
- Laura Murphy's 17-year journey to diagnose PMDD and the emotional toll it took on her
- Dr. Rosie Worsley's insights into the complexities of diagnosing and treating PMDD
- The scattershot nature of treatment options for PMDD and the need for greater understanding and support
- Laura's journey from feeling non-functional to her role as Director of Education and Awareness at the International Association for Premenstrual Disorders
- The importance of awareness and support for individuals battling PMDD
It's just such a waste of years suffering when now I realize I am capable perhaps I could have done so much more but actually you know I'm really happy. I wouldn't say it was worth it because, Jesus, nothing's worth going through that. But where I am now is a good point. You know, I've got a lovely partner. I've got lovely friends. I've just got a third cat. I mean, I'm living the dream.
Imagine feeling perfectly fine one moment, only to be plunged into a deep depression the next, like clockwork every month. That's what Laura Murphy experienced for nearly two decades. Her intense mood swings, anxiety, and irritability made her almost unrecognizable to herself and those around her. It wasn't until she was diagnosed with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) that she finally understood the root of her suffering. PMDD is often brushed off as severe PMS, but it's much more than that.
It wreaked havoc on Laura's life, affecting her career, finances, and relationships. She spent years in emotional turmoil, even reaching a point where she felt suicidal. After undergoing surgery, Laura began to see improvements and slowly reclaimed her life. In this episode, endocrinologist Dr. Rosie Worsley joins the conversation to explain why PMDD is so misunderstood and challenging to diagnose. She discusses the hormonal imbalances that trigger such extreme emotions and the scattershot nature of current treatment options.
Laura's story is not just about struggle; it's also about resilience and transformation. Today, she serves as the Director of Education and Awareness at the International Association for Premenstrual Disorders, using her experience to advocate for others facing similar battles. Her journey underscores the critical need for better awareness and support for those dealing with PMDD. If you've ever felt like your emotions are out of control or know someone who does, this episode offers both understanding and hope.
Tune in to learn more about the complexities of PMDD and the strength it takes to fight it.