The Overlap Between Mental Health & Women's Health
It is a fact that women's physical and mental health changes all through their lifespan. These changes are brought on by many factors which include hormonal changes and/or major life transitions. Women are by nature nurturers and caretakers, and often prioritize the needs of others before their own needs. However, it is essential to make your well-being a priority, it is the best gift you can give others. The act of prioritizing your mental and physical health will allow you to be more present, and model good self-care for others who look to you for care.
What is Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)?
Premenstrual Syndrome or PMS is not all in your head. There are actual hormonal changes that can occur causing significant physical, emotional, and behavioral changes. PMS is a syndrome that affects up to 75 percent of women who have regular menstrual cycles, and the symptoms vary from person to person.
What Causes PMS?
The exact cause of PMS is unknown. It is believed PMS is caused by a fall in progesterone and estrogen levels.
What are the Symptoms of PMS?
PMS Symptoms are different for every woman.
Physical symptoms may include:
Bloating
Swollen and/or tender breasts
Constipation
Diarrhea
Cramping
Headaches
Emotional symptoms may include:
Irritability
Hostile behavior
Feelings of sadness
Crying spells
Anxiety
What is the difference between PMS and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PDD)?
While the two are related, Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a severe form of PMS that has a significant impact on one’s ability to function.
What is Postpartum Depression (PPD)?
Although the birth of a baby is a joyous event, some postpartum women become depressed. The postpartum period starts at the birth of your baby and extends until approximately a year after childbirth. The cause of PPD is unclear.
What are the risk factors and Symptoms of Postpartum Depression?
Risk factors include having a history of depression and significant stress during and after childbirth. In accordance with DSM IV, a diagnosis of PPD must meet a time criterion of starting 4 weeks after birth and meet the criteria for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). Please refer to the November 27, 2020 newsletter titled "Mental Health Check-in" for DSM IV criteria for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD).
What can happen if I do not get treatment for PPD?
Untreated postpartum depression can result in both short and long-term negative consequences for the mother, and the infant. PPD may interfere with a mother's bonding with and properly caring for their infant and may cause suicidal thoughts of infanticide.
What do I do if I am concerned about my mental health?
Do not hesitate to seek help. Consult with your primary care doctor who will evaluate and provide treatment or refer you to a mental health provider depending on the severity of the symptoms. A holistic biopsychosocial approach should be used to determine if there are physical conditions such as thyroid disease, anemia, and/or life transitions that could be contributing to or causing mental health symptoms.
To maintain good, overall mental health, it is critical to stay connected with your support system and to stay plugged into God. If you have any questions regarding a mental health or have questions for Overcomer Covenant Church health ministry, we can be reached at health@overcomercc.org.
Prepared by Mary Flake
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Reference:
Cleveland clinic. (2022, April 12). Postpartum Depression. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9312-postpartum-depression
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