The Difference Between Depression and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

This blog shares the difference between depression and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). These two conditions share overlapping symptoms, but are different in several ways. You may be wondering if your depressive moods are caused by PMDD or major depressive disorder.

 

PMDD is defined as a severe form of PMS (pre-menstrual syndrome) that occurs before your period. According to Planned Parenthood, it consists of severe mood symptoms including depression, anxiety, and irritability. Some individuals may also experience thoughts of suicide, making leading up to your period feel intense and overwhelming.

 

Depression is a mood disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in things once enjoyed. It significantly impacts the way an individual feels, thinks, and behaves. The NIH classifies different scales of depression as mild, moderate, and severe. This is based on the intensity and recurrence of symptoms. 

 

We’ll discuss some differences between depression and PMDD. This blog should not be used as a diagnostic resource, and you should always consult with a professional. Starting therapy for depression in Simi Valley, Ca is a great first step in getting some answers. Consider reading our blog on 5 Ways to Cope with Depression.

 

Timing of Symptoms

There are some key differences in timing of symptoms, and whether they are brought on by depression or PMDD. Depression doesn’t have a set schedule for onset, but can have a predictable pattern to it. PMDD symptoms are present alongside your menstruation cycle.

 

According to the NIH, PMDD symptoms typically occur before menstruation. Individuals will notice PMDD symptoms about 5-8 days before your period, according to John Hopkins Medicine. Once your menstruation cycle is done, symptoms tend to resolve for the following two weeks. 

 

Depressive symptoms can persist throughout the month, and are not tied to your menstrual cycle. This can be tricky to differentiate if it feels like the symptoms are still occurring prior to your menstruation. Therefore, tracking your depressive moods around your period can be a helpful tool. 

 

It is always recommended to consult with a mental health professional regarding your symptoms of depression. Symptoms can be debilitating and severely affect your daily life. When you start therapy near Porter Ranch, you can begin experiencing relief. Make sure to read our blog on the 3 Benefits of Individual Therapy!

 

Duration of Symptoms

The timing of the onset of symptoms is a key difference between depression and PMDD. What about the duration of symptoms? As previously mentioned, symptoms of PMDD tend to last for 10-14 days, as stated by John Hopkins Medicine. The cycle of experiencing PMDD symptoms can last for two weeks, from the onset to resolution. There could be slight differences in exact onset and duration between cycles. 

 

Depression symptoms are more persistent. Symptoms may also last two weeks, but are not on a cyclical schedule as PMDD. Some forms of depression, such as persistent depressive disorder, can last for years. Depression can be triggered by seasonal changes, environmental stressors, neurochemical imbalances, genetics, and more. This causes it to be a complex condition, with patterns and factors involved.

 

Impact on Daily Life

Both PMDD and depression symptoms can have an impact on daily life. However, the cyclical nature of PMDD can be more predictable to manage. You know that your period is coming in the next week, and that symptoms are about to occur. In this way, it’s more manageable, and you can predict what you’ll want or need. 

 

Nonetheless, symptoms of PMDD are severe and significantly interfere with functioning. Just because they are predictable, doesn’t mean that they aren’t distressing. You’re still experiencing heavy depressive moods, elevated anxiousness, and more. Knowing that your symptoms are getting ready to present themselves can cause dread or worry. 

 

With depression, symptoms can be more persistent and not fully predictable. This can lead to ongoing challenges. Depression symptoms can occur in the midst of life transitions, important events, or anytime in regular life. They are onset by stressful events, biological factors, or psychological vulnerabilities. This includes negative thinking patterns that can be hard to recognize when you’re in them.

 

Diagnostic Criteria

When a professional is looking at diagnosing your depression symptoms, the differences we’ve already reviewed are taken into consideration. PMDD requires your symptoms to be directly related to your menstrual cycle, with significant interference in functioning. Depression, or MDD, requires persistent symptoms of depressed mood and/or loss of interest or pleasure.

 

These conditions have similarities when it comes to diagnosing, including:

 

• Emotional and physical symptoms, such as mood swings, irritability, fatigue, and physical discomfort.
• Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and decreased interest in activities.
• Both are associated with the risk of other mental health conditions.

 

Although there are similarities, there are clear stark differences between depression and PMDD. Understanding these differences is crucial for accurate diagnosing and treatment. 

 

Struggling with depression can feel isolating, hopeless, and draining. You don’t have to go through this alone. Therefore, connect with a mental health professional or your doctor to discuss your symptoms further.  

 

Looking for support for managing symptoms of depression? Call us today for a free consultation for therapy in Simi Valley, Ca. We hold sessions in-person in Ventura County, or virtually in the state of California. 

 

In-person therapy in Simi Valley is ideal for those seeking a separate, safe space from their home. Check out our blog on Online Therapy or In Office Therapy to understand what format is best for you. Another great blog to read is ours on if you need Therapy or Medication to address your issues.

 

By seeking out support, you can begin your journey to feeling relief. You don’t have to go through finding the right level of support alone, either. By clicking here, you’ll read our blog on Information About Simi Valley Therapists.

 

Consider calling our therapy group at (805) 774-1506 for a free consultation on how you or a loved one can get started today!

 

Seek out a validating, safe environment with us today. We will help you get to where you want to be. Our therapists provide trauma therapy, teen therapy, individual adult therapy, LGBTQIA+ therapy, anxiety therapy, depression therapy, family therapy, and more in-office in Simi Valley, CA.