Q My anxiety and depression worsen before my period. Is this also PMS, or does it need separate treatment?
A If it appears only during the luteal phase and disappears after menstruation, it falls within the scope of PMS. If it persists regardless of the menstrual cycle, it may be an independent anxiety or depressive disorder, and a psychiatric evaluation is also recommended.
Detailed Answer
The distinguishing criterion is whether symptoms concentrate in the luteal phase (the 1-2 weeks before menstruation) and disappear within a few days after menstruation begins. If this pattern is clear, it falls within the scope of PMS (or PMDD if severe). If you are always anxious or depressed regardless of menstruation, differentiation from generalized anxiety disorder or depression is needed, and in this case we recommend also receiving a psychiatric evaluation.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
Korean medicine treatment is effective for luteal-phase anxiety and depression linked to PMS. During the consultation, we ask in detail about the onset of symptoms and its relationship to the menstrual cycle to first determine whether it is PMS or a chronic emotional disorder, then guide the appropriate treatment direction.
Related FAQs
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Q
Can PMS go away completely, or do I have to manage it for life?
#Possibility / Realistic Goals
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My menstrual cramps are also severe. Can PMS and menstrual cramps be treated together?
#Comorbidities
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I hear exercise helps with PMS. What kind of exercise should I do, and how much?
#Lifestyle Management
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How should I spend the two weeks before my period to make symptoms milder? I'd like easy, practical methods.
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I've heard herbal medicine affects hormones. Won't it actually throw off my menstrual cycle?
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