Understanding Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

The speaker discusses the difference between premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) and premenstrual syndrome (PMS), explaining that PMDD is a severe emotional reaction to hormonal changes and is experienced by approximately 6% of menstruating individuals. They debunk the misconception of a hormonal imbalance causing premenstrual symptoms and suggest that the brain may be abnormally sensitive to normal changes in hormones. The chapter also touches on the relationship between autoimmune problems and PMDD, as well as the available treatments for severe premenstrual symptoms.