No one exists in a vacuum. Anyone who has experienced a notable physical injury or condition, or had a period of mental ill health, will know that invariably it will also have had an impact on those around them.

The same is absolutely true with PMDD (pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder), and here Dr Isabel McMullen, Consultant Psychiatrist, talks to us about how partners of those of PMDD can best support their loved ones.

How can you support a partner experiencing premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)?

For many women, symptoms of PMDD have been part of their lives for years before they realise help is available. They may have come to believe that feeling this way is simply part of having a period. Listening and acknowledging how difficult their experiences have been is an important place to start.

Practical support can make a difference, particularly when fatigue makes everyday tasks harder. Preparing a meal, offering a hot water bottle or planning a quiet film night at home can help your partner feel cared for without the pressure of a more demanding social occasion.

At other times, they may need space, especially if they are feeling irritable. Talk together about what helps, when they would welcome company and when they would prefer time alone. Agreeing this openly can make it easier to understand and respond to each other’s needs.

You don’t need to have every answer. Taking your partner’s experiences seriously, asking what would help and supporting them to seek professional help are valuable ways to be there for them.

You can find more about PMDD, and other Women's Health topics, here.