East Belfast Woman Raises Awareness of PMDD After Misdiagnosis

A woman from East Belfast, Katie Watson, is advocating for greater awareness of pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) after her own struggle with misdiagnosis as bipolar disorder. At 32 years old, Watson has spent the past year building an online support network aimed at helping others who experience similar challenges related to this hormone-related mood disorder.

PMDD is a severe condition characterized by intense emotional and physical symptoms that occur one to two weeks before menstruation, subsiding once the menstrual cycle begins. Watson shared her personal experience, stating, “I have the same hormones as everyone else, but my brain interprets them differently – it’s as if I’m allergic to my hormones.” She explained that while she generally feels happy and confident for most of the month, the week leading up to her period is marked by debilitating depression and anxiety.

Reflecting on the impact of PMDD on her life, Watson noted, “I would have really low mood and anxiety, but it’s not just feeling a little bit down, it’s next level.” She even had to reduce her working hours due to the disorder’s effects, revealing, “This is a bit blunt, but I thought the world would be better without me in it.” Fortunately, these feelings dissipate once her period begins, which further complicates the understanding of the disorder.

In an effort to raise awareness, Watson launched an Instagram page dedicated to PMDD, quickly gaining support and feedback from others experiencing similar symptoms. She emphasized the importance of open discussions, saying, “I thought people knowing about it would relieve me slightly.” The visibility of the disorder is critical, as PMDD is often grouped with other women’s health issues like endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). While some of these conditions are gaining traction in workplace support and sick pay initiatives, PMDD remains largely overlooked.

Watson’s initiative aims to change that narrative. “My tagline is ‘making noise about PMDD until one day, we don’t need to explain what it is,’” she stated. Her efforts have culminated in a monthly online forum titled The Monthlies, which has seen significant demand, demonstrating a clear need for community support in Belfast.

On January 17, 2024, Watson will host the popular Ormeau Parkrun to further promote awareness of PMDD. Participants are encouraged to wear pink and red, and the event will include discussions about the condition. Watson hopes to engage the community, saying, “At the start line, the co-ordinator will highlight the parkrun rules, then say the PMDD Project are here, share a bit about the condition, and encourage people to ask questions after.”

The response to her advocacy has been overwhelmingly positive. Watson shared an anecdote from a previous event at Boundary Brewery run club, where attendees actively sought information about PMDD. “There was a group of lads sat at a table with their phones out, Googling it. To me that was epic,” she remarked, highlighting the importance of involving everyone in the conversation around women’s health issues.

Watson’s mission is clear: she aims to foster a supportive environment for those affected by PMDD and to ensure that the condition receives the recognition it deserves. As she continues to build her community and raise awareness, her resilience and determination shine through, providing hope to many who may feel isolated in their struggles.

For more information on PMDD and to connect with Watson’s advocacy, her Instagram page serves as a valuable resource for individuals seeking support and information.