"I Thought I Was Losing My Mind": Janine's Journey to a PMDD Diagnosis

Thursday 16th April 2026

April is Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) Awareness Month, a time dedicated to shedding light on a severe form of premenstrual syndrome that can significantly affect mental health in the weeks leading up to a period.

In recognition of this important month, we want to share Janine Ley’s story, highlighting both the challenges of living with PMDD and the strength it takes to navigate it.

Janine, from Newport, said: “Six years ago, after the birth of my daughter, I began experiencing severe panic attacks and anxiety - something I’d never had before. I was referred for counselling and prescribed antidepressants. Things improved, but I never fully felt like myself again.

“A few years later, during some family difficulties, my anxiety returned and escalated. Like many mums, I put myself last and didn’t go back to my GP when I should have. By August, my mental health had deteriorated so badly that I was hospitalised after harming myself. I felt deep shame, but at the time the thoughts were overwhelming and all‑consuming.

“From then on, my life was dominated by monthly cycles of severe anxiety and depression, extreme mood swings, rage, intrusive thoughts and suicidal ideation. My medication wasn’t helping, my sleep was chaotic, and I withdrew completely from everything I loved. I genuinely believed I was losing my mind.”

Janine, who is now 43 years old, began noticing a pattern - each month, her mental health would collapse, then briefly lift for a few weeks when her period arrived.

“I finally told my GP that my darkest thoughts always came just before my period. It felt like my body was being hijacked. That’s when I was diagnosed with PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder). I’d never heard of it before, but suddenly everything made sense. Often described as PMS ‘on steroids’, it explained years of suffering. Reading about it felt like someone had written my life. I realised I wasn’t going crazy, this was real.”

Doctors believe that perimenopause has intensified Janine’s symptoms.

She said: “My periods are irregular and frequent, leaving little time to recover. Hormonal contraception isn’t an option for me, and while surgical options have been discussed, I’m currently waiting for specialist advice. Living in this limbo is incredibly hard. Despite this, having a diagnosis has been life‑changing. Knowing what I’m dealing with has helped me feel stronger and more grounded.

“My GPs, Dr Jones and Dr Templeton at Westfield Medical Centre in Malpas, have been incredible. Dr Templeton has been my constant support and has never made me feel dismissed or alone, she’s my rock."

Janine now realises that she has likely lived with this condition for most of her life, and credits joining an online PMDD support group for helping her feel less alone and providing her with valuable resources, as well as her family for their support.

“I want to thank my family and friends, especially my husband, for their patience and love. I couldn’t do this without you.

“If I could offer advice to anyone experiencing similar symptoms, it’s this: please seek help. Talk to your GP. Build a support system. Self‑care is essential, not selfish.

“And finally, I try to keep my sense of humour. And in my next life? I’m definitely coming back as a man.”