International Women's Day: Periods.
In light of International Women's Day, let's talk periods.
Uncomfortable? Good.
Talking about menstrual health has always been somewhat taboo. And while we've progressed quite fairly as a society (i.e. menstrual cups and emojis), some of us are still stuck when it comes to the mental illnesses and implications that come alongside a menstrual cycle.
Premenstrual Syndrome & Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder
Ever heard someone go, "Ugh, are you on your period?"
Aside from the buffet of blood and gunk, 1 in 20 individuals suffer from Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) – it is an endocrine disorder that affects both physical and mental health. It’s a serious and severe disorder, one that is similar to Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS).
Making snide comments and using inappropriate language to mock – while unintentionally – someone going through a rough enough time isn't the kindness that's called of us as beings.
Not only does a disorder like PMDD mess up hormones, its side effects include mental illnesses like depression and suicide ideation.
As a community, normalising conversation about PMS and PMDD can encourage others to accept and understand their feelings. We shouldn't shun the topic away as if ignoring it will have it disappear – as a community, we make the difference together.
These two disorders are a few of many that not only take a physical toll on women but are detrimental to the mental health of these individuals as well. It is crucial that we identify these effects and treat the disorders with a sort of respect, understanding the severity of the mental illnesses that come around with them.
Til' next time.