Show your support!
The National Association for PMDD is continuing the PMDD Awareness month throughout April.
Use the hashtag #pmddbrave
Showing posts with label PMDD. Show all posts
Showing posts with label PMDD. Show all posts
Friday, 3 April 2015
Monday, 12 May 2014
PMDD: one of evolution's unfortunate developments by E M
I was furious, upset, and most of all confused, stuffing random objects into an overnight bag while my partner sat staring at me, amazed. Why doesn’t he care? I thought, why does he just sit there, while I suffer this way. Because of him. With all of my being I hated him; I despised him. All of the love I usually felt toward him was gone, and I was terrified. I am no longer in love, I thought; I am devoid of love. Hatred, anger and fear were my primary emotions, and confusion fuzzed them all up in a most disconcerting manner. Strangely, I also wanted to laugh. (Women: hysterical, hormonal lunatics? Never! How I hate being controlled by my own body.) My partner was sighing with frustration and saying things like Don’t go, where are you going? I told him that it didn’t matter, since he didn’t care anyway. About an hour later, I was lying on the sofa, crying, while he went back to sleep in the bedroom. He didn’t care about me; he’d rather sleep than comfort me. Everything I thought made me cry harder. I didn’t leave, in the end. Instead I took some painkillers to numb my mind and rather ashamedly unpacked my bag.
The above paragraph is a true representation of the sort of situation that occurs monthly for me. I have PMDD, and it attempts to destroy my relationship every moth. Sometimes I think that it’s an evolutionary thing; that, because my partner has failed to impregnate me, my body’s response is to try to push him away in order to make way for a new, fertile mate for when I next ovulate. Now, I do think that theory makes a lot of sense, but it doesn’t really help me. The fact is, I can’t have a child at this point in my life; and even if I could, doing it to avoid PMDD is surely not the best reason to have children. Do I feel resentment toward my partner when I experience PMDD? Always. Usually – and this began long before I even thought about or heard about the theory above – I start to doubt his long-term commitment to me, and feel that he doesn’t earn enough, save enough or do enough. I think that he doesn’t love me and is only in this for the sex. I worry that he is cheating on me, that he isn’t interested in me. I have all sorts of conflicting and disturbing thoughts. Now, it’s not that I never have these thoughts unless I’m in the PMDD phase, but usually I can keep a handle on these thoughts and if they do arise, they aren’t serious concerns, they don’t bother me much and I don’t act on them. But that couple of weeks before my period arrives, I am often simply unable to ignore any little thing that happens or keep a sense of perspective. PMDD takes away that control, that perspective. Like many PMDD sufferers, I feel like Jekyll and Hyde. I fear, as King Lear said, I am not in my perfect mind. I believe that PMDD heightens any concerns I have regarding my ‘mate’ and is a way of saying: You’re not pregnant – find a more suitable man. PMDD is a warning to me and a deterrent to my mate.
The above paragraph is a true representation of the sort of situation that occurs monthly for me. I have PMDD, and it attempts to destroy my relationship every moth. Sometimes I think that it’s an evolutionary thing; that, because my partner has failed to impregnate me, my body’s response is to try to push him away in order to make way for a new, fertile mate for when I next ovulate. Now, I do think that theory makes a lot of sense, but it doesn’t really help me. The fact is, I can’t have a child at this point in my life; and even if I could, doing it to avoid PMDD is surely not the best reason to have children. Do I feel resentment toward my partner when I experience PMDD? Always. Usually – and this began long before I even thought about or heard about the theory above – I start to doubt his long-term commitment to me, and feel that he doesn’t earn enough, save enough or do enough. I think that he doesn’t love me and is only in this for the sex. I worry that he is cheating on me, that he isn’t interested in me. I have all sorts of conflicting and disturbing thoughts. Now, it’s not that I never have these thoughts unless I’m in the PMDD phase, but usually I can keep a handle on these thoughts and if they do arise, they aren’t serious concerns, they don’t bother me much and I don’t act on them. But that couple of weeks before my period arrives, I am often simply unable to ignore any little thing that happens or keep a sense of perspective. PMDD takes away that control, that perspective. Like many PMDD sufferers, I feel like Jekyll and Hyde. I fear, as King Lear said, I am not in my perfect mind. I believe that PMDD heightens any concerns I have regarding my ‘mate’ and is a way of saying: You’re not pregnant – find a more suitable man. PMDD is a warning to me and a deterrent to my mate.
But in our society, PMDD is not an evolutionary advantage; it is not helpful. For the many women who are physically, mentally, emotionally or financially unable to have children, have already had their children or who do not want children at all, PMDD merely destroys many facets of life with no benefit to the sufferer or the sufferer’s society. The interference in my relationship with my partner is by far the most destructive aspect of PMDD, for me. I worry that my body will successfully drive him away, that he will eventually give up on me, having to endure my hormone-crazy self every single month. I have actually come to long for my period to come so that it can all be over again – that’s how serious PMDD is. Compared to the emotional pain of PMDD, the physical pain of a period is a breeze
by E M, UK.
Saturday, 29 March 2014
Lindsay's Story *Guest Blog*
When I was 24, I noticed that something wasn't quite right. I was snappy and took offence at the slightest little thing. My bosses would have a go at me over my attitude, and all I could do was say sorry.
When I came home from working abroad, I saw the nurse as I had lost a tremendous amount of weight, and they were concerned about me. As it turned out, physically I was very well indeed, and I commented to the nurse that I felt there was something seriously wrong. She didn't listen, and instead made me feel like a silly little girl and that it was all in my head.
I told my Mum my concerns and whilst she could sympathise, there was little she could do. Having suffered depression in the past, I can recognise signs of depression, but, this was something that I could not comprehend.
Over the years, I went from being weepy (you know like when you cry because there are no cheese and onion crisps in the cupboard!) to becoming nasty and violent. When I was ovulating and three days before my period, I became a monster. I distinctly remember it was the Queens Diamond Jubilee, and I was watching it on tv crying my eyes out and being very angry.
I took two diazepam to calm me down (which I was actually given for symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome believe it or not) alas, they didn't help, and made me so spaced out I couldn't talk or walk.
Another time I was talking to my boyfriend on the phone whilst he was at work. I was sat at the top of the stairs telling him I wanted to kill myself and crying so hard I was retching. My boyfriend stayed with me and managed to calm me down, but, it took a long time.
There have been more occasions of this nature, however, I am sure you can see the pattern emerging. Most recently, my boyfriend has had to restrain me so I wouldn't pick the knife up that I was trying to grab, as I was so utterly in despair that I wanted to end it all.
When I turned 27, things were only getting worse. I was alienating my family and my poor boyfriend didn't have a clue what version of Lindsay he was going to encounter when he saw me. As you can see from the picture, I am a generally happy person, but this thing was robbing me of my life and my relationship.
In a last ditch attempt to get some help, I went to see my GP. He was brilliant, and recognised that I did indeed need help. He prescribed Citalopram to be taken from day 15 to day 28, as a trial to see if this helped and immediately diagnosed PMDD. I realise that not all GP's are as helpful as mine is, however, if you are know something is wrong, please tell them.
I have been on these tablets for approximately eight months now and, there is a difference. I do still have bad days, but, it does seem to be getting better. I suppose the purpose of me telling you this story, is, I don't want anyone to feel the way I did.
There is help out there, and PMDD is recognized as an illness, and not just something to be brushed aside, and dismissed as PMT. Please don't feel like you have anything to be ashamed of, you don't. I refuse to let this ruin my life and my relationship, and I really hope my story brings comfort and more importantly help.
Lindsay, UK x
If you would like to share your story, please contact Cat.
Wednesday, 27 February 2013
Where I am with things now...
The following is part of a message I wrote to my new UK support group... I thought I'd share here too.
One thing I have realised is that I will never be able to work a normal 9-5. I cannot fit into the schedules of the outside world, so I will no longer strive to. It has always been my plan to run my own business or go self employed, so that is now where I see myself heading. One step at a time, always chipping away. I used to think I would never get anywhere, locked into the crazy cycles, but now I see a path where before there was none.
By meeting others and realising I was not alone I broke the first chain. By learning from others and never giving up, never closing my mind to new possibilities I have got this far and so can you. No matter what path you follow, whether it's meds, hormones, lifestyle, spirituality, alternative treatments or surgery, you will hopefully find someone else in the same boat who can relate, and who can offer support. We should always be accepting of other peoples choices and remember that what may have worked for us may not work for someone else. We can always offer a word of support even if we don't fully relate...
Currently, I am building a new website to launch PMDD Awareness UK. I am hoping this will become a base for PMDD news and campaigns in the UK. I am also hoping that women will join in in raising awareness, and the website will eventually provide posters to download, and info sheets to give to GP's. I am also looking at creating a mood chart, downloadable from the website. There are no organisations working solely for PMDD in the UK. NAPS do a great job in working on behalf of women with PMDD, and I liase with them regarding PMDD Awareness issues. They are still our only official organisation and a great place to get info and help. They are also all set up for that kind of thing, so me, with my PMDD Awareness UK plans will need to continue to ask women to step forward, join the tribe and help try and change things. You know that saying.. 'if you want something done...' well WE need something done about the state of PMDD and how it is dealt with, WE need to be prepared to write a letter or put up a poster... It may only seem like small steps, but that's all we need to get started. It's better than no steps at all! If you haven't liked the PMDD Awareness UK page, please come and do so www.facebook.com/pmddawarenessuk
Lots of love to you all! I wouldn't have got here if it hadn't been for these groups and the readers comments and messages on my blog! all of which have supported me along my journey, so thank you!
If you would like to join my new UK Facebook support group, and you currently live in the UK, please follow this link! https://www.facebook.com/groups/ukpmddsupport/
When I started the support groups I
was very active in all of them. I was still struggling with my PMDD
and needed the valuable words of support and advice that you can find in
the group, however, life moves on and my struggles are far more under
my control and I am beginning to focus my time on other things. What
this means is although I am the group owner, I may not be in here and
posting all the time. I will always respond to anything I'm tagged in,
but I unfortunately don't have the time I used to have to dedicate to
the groups. There was one point in my life when my PMDD groups were the
first thing I checked in the morning and the last thing at night! I
have always seen the need to create a UK group, so this, I think, will
be the last group I set up!
I have been writing my blog for about 6 years and writing has my saviour so many times. Go back a few years and you can read my posts from when I was at my worst, right up to now where I tend to focus my writing into creating more positive articles and blogs. It has proved quite popular and I thank the Goddess for ever comment that keeps me writing. I get lots of emails and inbox messages for people looking for help. It would be impossible for me to help and support everyone, but what I can do is create a space where you can do it for each other.
I have lived with this since I was 13, and have tried many medications, birth controls, IUD's etc but the only thing that worked for me was changing the way I saw my period. I began working with the natural ups and downs. I learned to deal better with stress and I make sure I avoid stressful situations. Looking after myself, honouring what having a powerful connection to the cycle means has helped turn things around for me. I do not believe in medications. I do not believe this incurable. I see PMDD as a severe imbalance within the system, with many factors contributing to the overall list of symptoms. It's a whole mix up of low serotonin, adrenal fatigue, excess hormones or lack of, sensitivity to the hormonal changes, not enough healthy food and exercise, lack of sleep, traumatic situations, childhood baggage, unhealthy relationships, being over worked, and negative though patterns etc etc... possibly mixed up with some depression and other health conditions you may have, and possibly brought on by some kind of reaction to hormonal medication, pregnancy, or underlying problem in the sex organs.
I now manage my PMDD and life so that I rarely suffer the severe symptoms. I'm not free of it, but neither would I want to be. PMDD makes me look at my life and the things I am doing. It stops me from taking on more than I can handle. It makes me streamline my friendships so that I only have people around me who I trust and who understand me. It has led me to become strong and there is nothing better than PMDD to teach you how to 'not sweat the small stuff'. I have achieved this through stopping all meds and birth control, getting lots of counseling, moving on from bad relationships and stressful friendships, and becoming more aware of my cycle. I use spiritual views and ideas to get me through, concepts about the menstrual cycle that I connected with in a spiritual way. It's made me be more honest and open with those around me. It makes me ask for help when I need it.
My menstrual cycle has become a source of inspiration for me and I no longer fear it. I know the cycle. I know MY cycle. I rest when I need to, I work hard when I can. I see my life, much like a circus act. I'm the plate spinner. I get one going, then my mood changes, so I set another one spinning... I keep going till there are things to do no matter what mood I'm in, so I focus on those things in turn as my mood changes. Sometimes I drop all the plates, and after a rant, rest or cry, I start picking them back up and get spinning again.
I have been writing my blog for about 6 years and writing has my saviour so many times. Go back a few years and you can read my posts from when I was at my worst, right up to now where I tend to focus my writing into creating more positive articles and blogs. It has proved quite popular and I thank the Goddess for ever comment that keeps me writing. I get lots of emails and inbox messages for people looking for help. It would be impossible for me to help and support everyone, but what I can do is create a space where you can do it for each other.
I have lived with this since I was 13, and have tried many medications, birth controls, IUD's etc but the only thing that worked for me was changing the way I saw my period. I began working with the natural ups and downs. I learned to deal better with stress and I make sure I avoid stressful situations. Looking after myself, honouring what having a powerful connection to the cycle means has helped turn things around for me. I do not believe in medications. I do not believe this incurable. I see PMDD as a severe imbalance within the system, with many factors contributing to the overall list of symptoms. It's a whole mix up of low serotonin, adrenal fatigue, excess hormones or lack of, sensitivity to the hormonal changes, not enough healthy food and exercise, lack of sleep, traumatic situations, childhood baggage, unhealthy relationships, being over worked, and negative though patterns etc etc... possibly mixed up with some depression and other health conditions you may have, and possibly brought on by some kind of reaction to hormonal medication, pregnancy, or underlying problem in the sex organs.
I now manage my PMDD and life so that I rarely suffer the severe symptoms. I'm not free of it, but neither would I want to be. PMDD makes me look at my life and the things I am doing. It stops me from taking on more than I can handle. It makes me streamline my friendships so that I only have people around me who I trust and who understand me. It has led me to become strong and there is nothing better than PMDD to teach you how to 'not sweat the small stuff'. I have achieved this through stopping all meds and birth control, getting lots of counseling, moving on from bad relationships and stressful friendships, and becoming more aware of my cycle. I use spiritual views and ideas to get me through, concepts about the menstrual cycle that I connected with in a spiritual way. It's made me be more honest and open with those around me. It makes me ask for help when I need it.
My menstrual cycle has become a source of inspiration for me and I no longer fear it. I know the cycle. I know MY cycle. I rest when I need to, I work hard when I can. I see my life, much like a circus act. I'm the plate spinner. I get one going, then my mood changes, so I set another one spinning... I keep going till there are things to do no matter what mood I'm in, so I focus on those things in turn as my mood changes. Sometimes I drop all the plates, and after a rant, rest or cry, I start picking them back up and get spinning again.
One thing I have realised is that I will never be able to work a normal 9-5. I cannot fit into the schedules of the outside world, so I will no longer strive to. It has always been my plan to run my own business or go self employed, so that is now where I see myself heading. One step at a time, always chipping away. I used to think I would never get anywhere, locked into the crazy cycles, but now I see a path where before there was none.
By meeting others and realising I was not alone I broke the first chain. By learning from others and never giving up, never closing my mind to new possibilities I have got this far and so can you. No matter what path you follow, whether it's meds, hormones, lifestyle, spirituality, alternative treatments or surgery, you will hopefully find someone else in the same boat who can relate, and who can offer support. We should always be accepting of other peoples choices and remember that what may have worked for us may not work for someone else. We can always offer a word of support even if we don't fully relate...
Currently, I am building a new website to launch PMDD Awareness UK. I am hoping this will become a base for PMDD news and campaigns in the UK. I am also hoping that women will join in in raising awareness, and the website will eventually provide posters to download, and info sheets to give to GP's. I am also looking at creating a mood chart, downloadable from the website. There are no organisations working solely for PMDD in the UK. NAPS do a great job in working on behalf of women with PMDD, and I liase with them regarding PMDD Awareness issues. They are still our only official organisation and a great place to get info and help. They are also all set up for that kind of thing, so me, with my PMDD Awareness UK plans will need to continue to ask women to step forward, join the tribe and help try and change things. You know that saying.. 'if you want something done...' well WE need something done about the state of PMDD and how it is dealt with, WE need to be prepared to write a letter or put up a poster... It may only seem like small steps, but that's all we need to get started. It's better than no steps at all! If you haven't liked the PMDD Awareness UK page, please come and do so www.facebook.com/pmddawarenessuk
Lots of love to you all! I wouldn't have got here if it hadn't been for these groups and the readers comments and messages on my blog! all of which have supported me along my journey, so thank you!
If you would like to join my new UK Facebook support group, and you currently live in the UK, please follow this link! https://www.facebook.com/groups/ukpmddsupport/
Friday, 22 February 2013
New Posters available!
Finally! After lots of work the Menstrual Cycle Visual Guide is now available for sale!
A4, printed on heavy FSC paper, this provides a handy visual guide to the menstrual cycle. Useful for education purposes and to aid personal understanding of the cycle.
Single posters are £8 (price includes worldwide shipping) but are cheaper when purchased as part of a pack or as a multiple poster purchase.
Just go my my POSTER SHOP to browse the poster packs available!
Every poster sold helps me to keep doing what I'm doing! I have never charged for anything I've created, written or shared, I have never asked for donations. If you would like to show your support then buying a poster is one way to do that! and, I hope, the posters will help you and the people around you too!
Many blessings xx
A4, printed on heavy FSC paper, this provides a handy visual guide to the menstrual cycle. Useful for education purposes and to aid personal understanding of the cycle.
Single posters are £8 (price includes worldwide shipping) but are cheaper when purchased as part of a pack or as a multiple poster purchase.
Just go my my POSTER SHOP to browse the poster packs available!
Every poster sold helps me to keep doing what I'm doing! I have never charged for anything I've created, written or shared, I have never asked for donations. If you would like to show your support then buying a poster is one way to do that! and, I hope, the posters will help you and the people around you too!
Many blessings xx
Thursday, 10 January 2013
The Menstrual Cycle - A Visual Guide
It never ceases to amaze me how many women don't really know what is going in inside their bodies during the menstrual cycle, or how to chart their cycle. I don't mean that in an unkind way, it's just an observation. Knowledge is the best tool you can have, and if you suffer with PMDD you need to do a bit of reading and get some of that valuable knowledge under you belt. It will help as you try and figure out what happens at what point of your cycle, and having an idea of the physical changes inside you can really help.
Over the years I have come across videos and charts which have helped me to understand the changes my body goes through. That understanding, in turn, led me to look for ways to support the changes rather than fight against them. Timing and planning things around the different energies is now second nature. Knowing my limits at each point of the cycle has really helped me live with PMDD. I have the odd breakdown, but I am much more in control on a regular basis during all points of my cyclical changes. That to me is like winning the lottery.
I decided to create a chart just for PMDD/PMS sufferers to refer to. It shows the fluctuations in hormones, the physical changes, and the energetic/emotional changes. Hopefully it will give you a good idea as to what is happening in side you when all hell breaks loose! It also has key words to give you a feel for the natural energy of each phase..
I will go into the seasonal correspondences in another post, but it's quite easy to connect with. Our energy grows after our period, peaks at ovulation and then slowly wanes until we bleed again. You can see this cycle happen in nature every year. We have like a mini years worth of seasons in one month! I have blogged about these theories before, you can find some of them here and here. I also created a poster about these energies which you can find here - http://naturalshaman.blogspot.co.uk/p/energy-cycle-poster.html.
We get all stressed out about feeling low, tired or crabby, but if we are pre menstrual or hitting ovulation there is a simple explanation! Hormonal changes! If you are still having trouble during the times when the hormones level out and are not finding yourself feeling better, then maybe there are other issues at play. PMDD will drag you down during pre menstruation and in some cases, at ovulation too. You should always feel better at each point between to two, but if you are not, you may need to look at whether your unhappiness/frustration is coming from a depression, an unsuitable job, an unhappy relationship, a past trauma or issue that hasn't been resolved. PMDD plays a huge part in our emotional wellbeing, but it's not the only factor. Stress and unresolved issues can add to the pressure and make an uncontrollable outburst more likely.
Here is the chart. It clearly shows the fluctuations and changes the body goes through. I have added where the PMDD crisis points are, along with the seasons of the year and key words that can give you an idea of the energies present during each phase. Hopefully it is simple enough to understand, and below, is a written explanation. Again, I hope I have written it in such a way that it is easy to understand. I have read many a medical site that uses such technical words that it gets too complicated to understand!
The menstrual cycle is split into 3 phases, follicular, ovulation and luteal. The first phase is the follicular phase and corresponds to when the FSH (follicle stimulating hormone, produced in the brain) sends signals to the ovary to ripen and produce and egg.. This then produces more estrogen from the ovaries to enable the egg to ripen.. At ovulation, increasing estrogen levels from the maturing follicles cause the LH, luteinizing hormone, to surge, which releases the egg. The corpus luteum (a solid body of cells) is left behind at ovulation. The corpus luteum excretes progesterone and small amounts of estrogen and causes the womb lining to thicken in preparation for the egg. This is called the luteal phase. It prepares the body for pregnancy. During the luteal phase, estrogen drops quite rapidly and will fluctuate until your period. At the same time, progesterone is rising. It spikes around day 21, and then drops off rapidly. When the egg is not fertilised, the corpus luteum dies and stops producing progesterone and estrogen, this allows the womb to shed it's lining and cleanse the uterus.
Over the years I have come across videos and charts which have helped me to understand the changes my body goes through. That understanding, in turn, led me to look for ways to support the changes rather than fight against them. Timing and planning things around the different energies is now second nature. Knowing my limits at each point of the cycle has really helped me live with PMDD. I have the odd breakdown, but I am much more in control on a regular basis during all points of my cyclical changes. That to me is like winning the lottery.
I decided to create a chart just for PMDD/PMS sufferers to refer to. It shows the fluctuations in hormones, the physical changes, and the energetic/emotional changes. Hopefully it will give you a good idea as to what is happening in side you when all hell breaks loose! It also has key words to give you a feel for the natural energy of each phase..
I will go into the seasonal correspondences in another post, but it's quite easy to connect with. Our energy grows after our period, peaks at ovulation and then slowly wanes until we bleed again. You can see this cycle happen in nature every year. We have like a mini years worth of seasons in one month! I have blogged about these theories before, you can find some of them here and here. I also created a poster about these energies which you can find here - http://naturalshaman.blogspot.co.uk/p/energy-cycle-poster.html.
We get all stressed out about feeling low, tired or crabby, but if we are pre menstrual or hitting ovulation there is a simple explanation! Hormonal changes! If you are still having trouble during the times when the hormones level out and are not finding yourself feeling better, then maybe there are other issues at play. PMDD will drag you down during pre menstruation and in some cases, at ovulation too. You should always feel better at each point between to two, but if you are not, you may need to look at whether your unhappiness/frustration is coming from a depression, an unsuitable job, an unhappy relationship, a past trauma or issue that hasn't been resolved. PMDD plays a huge part in our emotional wellbeing, but it's not the only factor. Stress and unresolved issues can add to the pressure and make an uncontrollable outburst more likely.
Here is the chart. It clearly shows the fluctuations and changes the body goes through. I have added where the PMDD crisis points are, along with the seasons of the year and key words that can give you an idea of the energies present during each phase. Hopefully it is simple enough to understand, and below, is a written explanation. Again, I hope I have written it in such a way that it is easy to understand. I have read many a medical site that uses such technical words that it gets too complicated to understand!
To chart your periods, you start counting on the first day of bleeding. That is day 1. You keep counting until you bleed again and the again, the first day of bleeding becomes day 1. Mark it on a calendar or use an app to keep track of your period. This helps you to plan around your period by not taking on too much during the times that could be challenging. I often count forward and also mark day 7, 14, 21 and 28. That then gives me a quick view of where I will be emotionally and physically throughout the month. Lots of cycles are longer or shorter, and that is normal. 28 days is just the average. Ovulation always occurs around 14 days before your period, so if you have a short cycle, say, 21 days, you will ovulate on day 7.. if it is a longer cycle, say 32 days, you will ovulate around day 18. It IS possible to ovulate twice in a month and to not ovulate at all.
The other hormones involved are those that are produced in the brain that send signals to the ovaries. Gonadotropic hormones come from the pituitary glad in the brain. They are controlled by GnRH frequencies that send out pulses to regulate the production of gonadotropic hormones. In men, this pulse is contstant and steady. In women, the frequencies change throughout the cycle which is what gives us a cycle that changes and fluctuates. The change in frequency is what sends out the right amount of gonadotropic hormones to our ovaries to trigger the stages of the menstrual cycle.
The basal body temperature can help clearly indicate ovulation and is important for those trying to conceive or who use the fertility awareness method of contraception. By orally taking your temperature every morning as soon as you wake (before even getting out of bed) and keeping a record, you will see a drop in temperature at ovulation and then it will rise from around 36.4°F to 36.7°F. Other signs of ovulation is the consistency of cervical mucus. At ovulation, this mucus will be fluid and watery. Some women can tell they are ovulating just by how wet or moist they get. This fluid helps sperm to swim more easily into the womb. After ovulation, the cervical mucus will get thicker and more sticky. This is much harder for the sperm to swim through, which helps with contraception. For more info on the fertility awareness method and charting temperature, take a look at TCOYF. Some women do also experience pain at ovulation. Stabbing sharp pains on either the left or right side can signify which ovary you are ovulating from! They are known as mittelschmerz.
By having even a basic understanding of the physiology of the menstrual cycle, you can get to grips with why we experience these changes in mind and body. This is the physical process, but we all know that these changes DO have a significant effect on our mental health, moods and wellbeing.
When you really learn and come to terms with the fact that our bodily processes are pretty much out of our hands.. meaning, we cannot stop them, (unless we control them with birth control/hormone therapy or hysterectomy) but we can start to look at ways of how to live and work WITH them. Of course, we can influence our bodily functions. By eating and sleeping right, exercising and staying away from stress we can encourage a healthier system...
Never underestimate stress. Stress can knock out these physical rhythms, causing the cycle to become off balance. This can lead to irregular periods, changes in cycle length, missing or late periods and all manner of emotional symptoms.
I have produced an alternate version of this chart to share on Facebook, and may look at getting some printed for those who would like a hard copy to stick up at home... If you are interested in buying a copy, please message me via my Facebook page or use my Kontactr box.
Chart is for illustrative purposes only and includes the main factors responsible for the menstrual cycle. There are obviously other smaller players on the menstrual stage, but for the purposes of PMDD education, I have focused on the star performers!
If you choose to download and share, please link back to me and do not remove my copyright from the image. Please contact me if you wish to re blog, so I can give you a shout out in return! Thank you. xx
© Cat Hawkins 2012 - Art and design by chaoticat.com.
Wednesday, 19 December 2012
Are you ready for Christmas?
I'm feeling blessed as I am currently on day 4, so in 6 days time, I'll be hitting ovulation and will hopefully be able to enjoy the festivities without lack of energy getting in the way. I do feel like I've lost a load of time this week having to retreat and rest, so I am slightly anxious at the moment. I'm not a party person, but I do like being able to enjoy the company of others without PMDD stresses getting in the way! What I will have to watch however are my frustrations and anxiety, as ovulation can so easily tip from energy and excitement into anxiety and anger.
Where will you be in 6 days time?
'Cycle' scopes for Christmas 2012!
Days 1-7 - Menstruation
If you are due to bleed just before or on Christmas/Boxing day then try to get things organised while you are still pre-menstrual. During menstruation we need quiet time and to relax and rest. This may be difficult with Christmas arrangements. Hopefully, if you were aware that your sacred time was due to fall at such a busy time, you may have been able to plan ahead. Maybe saying no to invites out to social situations that would be too much for you at this time. If staying at home with the family can mean just as much stress, then be open. Make sure you partner knows that you will be in a retreat time of the month and you may need to rest.. EVEN if it's Christmas.. PMDD does not know it's Christmas! If you don't feel like cooking, then maybe taking Mum up on the invite might actually be better and relieve some pressure. Call on others to help, and if you need to rest and take some quiet time out then make sure loved ones know that it's just because you need it to stay well, and not because they have done something to upset you. If you can muster up enough energy to visit family then maybe limit the time you are there. Sometimes getting out, even though we feel terrible can actually help. Go easy on yourself, and remember a walk outside can help with pain and stress.. Menstruation relates to winter, so at Christmas you have a 'double dose' of winter as it were. You may find yourself deep in reflection of the past year and considering what 2013 may bring. It may be difficult to get through, but when you do you'll be over the worst ready for the bright shiny new year!
Days 7-14 - Pre Ovulation
If you are due to be in the pre ovulation stage of your cycle, Christmas may feel a bit too much. You may find it hard to get into the swing of things, especially if you have just finished bleeding and the last week before Christmas was a crazy panic as you had tons to do but no energy to do them in. You may feel the energy coming back and with it a sense of optimism and happiness, and excitement about Christmas. Don't let anything you forgot to do, or couldn't get done in time cause you stress. It's ONE day. Nothing is ever perfect and remember that all those rosy images you see plastered over the TV screens and adverts are just that.. fantasy. You may experience anxiety, with the rushing of energy back into your being, but just take some breaths and remember that everything is OK. You may decide YOUR party time this year is over new year's eve, when you will be ovulating. You also might hit the sales to find the perfect present for yourself! You'll reach new year wanting to manifest new things with ovulation. Ovulation has an energy similar to spring, with new life returning to the earth. You may want to start looking at some new years resolutions over Christmas, plant the seed. It will be easier to bring into fruition in January.
Day 14-21 - Ovulation
Ovulation over the Christmas period may mean you are feeling good and ready for the festive season. Pre ovulation may have seen you preparing and organising for Christmas. The rush in energy may have seen you rushing around buying and making last minute presents. You're spirits may be high and you may be feeling good about any social events you have planned. The energy is social and busy, it relates to Summer. Many women have a challenging time with ovulation, the pressure to be 'out there' for some personalities is too much. The worry about how we look and appear to the world. Some ladies like make up and getting dressed up, some don't. Which ever category you are in, be YOU. If you have a fancy party to go to but hate getting dressed up, and therefore that is causing anxiety, then just go in something you like. Bend the rules and find something smart but casual.. it's Christmas! If you don't want to go, and going will create a disasterous situation then don't go, but don't beat yourself up about it for the rest of the holidays. Beware of ovulation anger and frustration. With everyone being home at Christmas we can easily become angered and irritated by people, especially those close. Usually it's because there is something we want to do, but we are not being allowed, or for some reason it can't happen. This is a good time to practice letting things go and re focusing on the things we CAN do. Acknowledge that we are upset and why, then move on.. As we tip over into pre menstruation, we will experience fluctuating symptoms and our mood can drop. Remember that as much as we will the bad days to pass, we should try and make the most of the better days too. New year may feel a bit of a drag to you, so try to have a good Christmas, the cycle is working with you here, so there is every possibility you could have a REALLY good Christmas!
Days 21-28 - Pre Menstruation
If you will be due on your period at Christmas then you may find it all a bit of a struggle.
The pre menstrual time brings an energy of slowing down and withdrawing, the opposite of what Christmas is all about. Pre menstruation relates to autumn, and to me that means unsettled weather. Some beautiful bonus sunny days and some right 'orrible ones. So do what you can. Ask others to help. Try and keep Christmas simple and relaxed. It's a bit late now to pull out of plans that might have been made, but if you really feel you cannot go to something, remember to try and explain things in a calm way, and that it's no ones fault! THIS is when you need to delegate and organise. Ovulation the week before Christmas may have meant you've had some fun spending and organising presents. You may have felt full of hope and happiness, but as the wheel turns and you get closer to the big day, you may feel your spirits dropping and your energy flagging. Remember this is not your fault, it just is the way things ebb and flow. Make sure loved ones know you are due on and might be cranky (or that they need to be on crisis alert). This also means that you will be bringing in the new year with your bleed. Not the greatest scenario, but one that can't be helped. The new year is a time of contemplation, reflection and thoughts to the future. You can use your sacred time over new year to really look at 2012 and what you have learned, how far you have come and what you want for 2013.
Make sure YOU take the steps you need to to get through the season.
We can explain things to others and in turn they can help, but if you
don't let others know, your moods and actions can be taken in the wrong
way. Running up to bed on Christmas day may seem rude or selfish, but
not if you've explained. An hour or two in bed may mean you have a happier evening, rather than end up snapping at the kids or your partner. You have to look after your own needs, and put things in place so that you avoid as much stress as possible.Christmas can be a really challenging time for many, whether you have PMDD or not, so try and prepare a little. One of the good things about PMDD is it is usually quite predictable, so we can look a week or two ahead and get an idea of where we will be in our cycle.
I hope this little blog helps, and I hope that your Christmas passes without any form of crisis.
If you do find yourself alone and in a dark place, please don't hesitate to contact someone. If there are no friends or family you can call on then make note of your local helpline numbers. Don't suffer alone. If you are a member of mine or any other support groups, remember you can always post in there, even if it's quieter at this time of year, someone will respond, and sometimes support comes from unlikely places.
Sending much love and many Yuletide blessings!
Cat xx
Support lines in the UK
Samaritans - 08457 90 90 90 (24-hour helpline)
Confidential support for people experiencing feelings of distress or despair.
Website: www.samaritans.org.uk
Sane - 0845 767 8000 (daily, 6pm-11pm)
Charity offering support and carrying out research into mental illness.
Website: www.sane.org.uk
Tuesday, 11 December 2012
Happy Birthday!
PMDD Support is 2 years old today! Happy Birthday!
I clicked the create button two years ago on a group (PMDD Support) I was hoping would introduce me and allow me to talk to other PMDD sufferers. A few months later we went up to two groups (PMDD Support 2). Then the PMDD Support Red Tent was created... The family and friends group has come and gone.. but on the whole I feel very proud that the groups are still attracting members and that discussion is still going on.
Life has changed dramatically for me since I first created the groups. I was a very different person. Still on meds, still trying to deal with the fact the injection was unsuccessful, desperate for information, for friendship, for anyone to listen and understand what was going on. I was still getting over the effects of a negative relationship and trying to build a new one. Over the past 2 years I have met some incredible women, some who are still in the groups and some who aren't. It's been awesome to see women learning, figuring themselves out, figuring out how to manage their PMDD, what works, what doesn't... gaining support from others who understand. I've seen women who are so down on themselves, thinking they are the worlds worst.. who then write a lovely supportive post to someone else... showing so much compassion and understanding.
We are far from the nasty, stressed out, angry, crazy women we see ourselves as. We are strong, we have the capacity to feel the deepest emotions.. in our own healing paths we HAVE to learn about ourselves. If we try and carry on blind to our own needs, we see ourselves becoming more unwell. All in all we become the women who dance with the darkness, who learn to control themselves, who inspire others to keep on. If we can do it, what's the problem with everyone else?
We are picky with who and what we spend our time on, we know how precious those moments are. We have to learn how to 'not sweat the small stuff'.. we become the ones who understand ourselves better than anyone else ever could, and with that we CAN have happier and more successful lives
With the support I have found in the groups, I have been able to take on more groups, I have been encouraged and inspired to write blogs. I have found much better ways of communicating with my man, I got married!! I continued the PMDD campaign. I have come off all medications. I found a way that worked for me.. ideas that made sense, a way of understanding PMDD that helped me to heal.. I have had almost 2 cycles of barely any mental/emotional symptoms.. I have many projects on the go.. I even earned a little from my art recently! Things can change, in fact things ALWAYS change. Of that we can always be certain. So no matter how you are feeling today, know that life is ever flowing, ever changing.. if you are feeling good, it is possible to feel even better. If you are feeling low, it is possible and most likely, that you WILL feel better again.
Sending love to you all today (and a virtual slice of birthday cake!)
Cat xx
I clicked the create button two years ago on a group (PMDD Support) I was hoping would introduce me and allow me to talk to other PMDD sufferers. A few months later we went up to two groups (PMDD Support 2). Then the PMDD Support Red Tent was created... The family and friends group has come and gone.. but on the whole I feel very proud that the groups are still attracting members and that discussion is still going on.
Life has changed dramatically for me since I first created the groups. I was a very different person. Still on meds, still trying to deal with the fact the injection was unsuccessful, desperate for information, for friendship, for anyone to listen and understand what was going on. I was still getting over the effects of a negative relationship and trying to build a new one. Over the past 2 years I have met some incredible women, some who are still in the groups and some who aren't. It's been awesome to see women learning, figuring themselves out, figuring out how to manage their PMDD, what works, what doesn't... gaining support from others who understand. I've seen women who are so down on themselves, thinking they are the worlds worst.. who then write a lovely supportive post to someone else... showing so much compassion and understanding.
We are far from the nasty, stressed out, angry, crazy women we see ourselves as. We are strong, we have the capacity to feel the deepest emotions.. in our own healing paths we HAVE to learn about ourselves. If we try and carry on blind to our own needs, we see ourselves becoming more unwell. All in all we become the women who dance with the darkness, who learn to control themselves, who inspire others to keep on. If we can do it, what's the problem with everyone else?
We are picky with who and what we spend our time on, we know how precious those moments are. We have to learn how to 'not sweat the small stuff'.. we become the ones who understand ourselves better than anyone else ever could, and with that we CAN have happier and more successful lives
With the support I have found in the groups, I have been able to take on more groups, I have been encouraged and inspired to write blogs. I have found much better ways of communicating with my man, I got married!! I continued the PMDD campaign. I have come off all medications. I found a way that worked for me.. ideas that made sense, a way of understanding PMDD that helped me to heal.. I have had almost 2 cycles of barely any mental/emotional symptoms.. I have many projects on the go.. I even earned a little from my art recently! Things can change, in fact things ALWAYS change. Of that we can always be certain. So no matter how you are feeling today, know that life is ever flowing, ever changing.. if you are feeling good, it is possible to feel even better. If you are feeling low, it is possible and most likely, that you WILL feel better again.
Sending love to you all today (and a virtual slice of birthday cake!)
Cat xx
Wednesday, 28 November 2012
Change something
Day 11. I actually had to check my tracker as
I cannot remember a time before when things have been so smooth, I
really didn't know what day I was on. I'm not sure what's different,
but I feel different... Life is changing, so maybe the knock on is less
symptoms? and I mean good change, positive change... I'm trying to
find the words to help describe what's happened over this past cycle and
a half... No negative symptoms, no crashes, or depression... been
feeling pretty stable... and that is AMAZING!
Change something. We end up repeating the same patterns because we become wired with REactions to things that happen in our lives. This is the same with illness and dis-ease. It IS possible to manage symptoms, to feel better, but you gotta change something. You may have lots of ideas in your head that sound and feel like they would be good for you, why not make a promise to yourself to try one.
Change ONE thing... For me, this month, I started an online Astrology course. 2 hours every Monday morning. It's given me something to get up for on a Monday. It's a good start to the week. It's made me organise and attempt other things in my life, stuff I may have been too scared to try. By adding one structure into my life, it's having a knock on effect to other things. I have wanted to do some formal study in Astrology all my life, and it feels good to finally be doing it. WHY did I wait so long!
Go deep within. You KNOW what's best for you. If you are being called to change your job, find a job, write, draw, go to college or start a course the DO IT! You may think of a thousand reasons why you can't or shouldn't, but ignore all that. If it feels like the right path then take it. Find a way. If it IS the right path, it will happen, it will flow and it will feel easy.
Don't let PMDD stand in your way. Almost every woman I have ever spoken too is smart, intelligent and strong. They just need to realise it. They just need to be brave and start to mold their lives around them, find their own way. We are unique women, it just takes time to figure out how to be unique in a world that likes regularity and conformity.
xx ♥
Change something. We end up repeating the same patterns because we become wired with REactions to things that happen in our lives. This is the same with illness and dis-ease. It IS possible to manage symptoms, to feel better, but you gotta change something. You may have lots of ideas in your head that sound and feel like they would be good for you, why not make a promise to yourself to try one.
Change ONE thing... For me, this month, I started an online Astrology course. 2 hours every Monday morning. It's given me something to get up for on a Monday. It's a good start to the week. It's made me organise and attempt other things in my life, stuff I may have been too scared to try. By adding one structure into my life, it's having a knock on effect to other things. I have wanted to do some formal study in Astrology all my life, and it feels good to finally be doing it. WHY did I wait so long!
Go deep within. You KNOW what's best for you. If you are being called to change your job, find a job, write, draw, go to college or start a course the DO IT! You may think of a thousand reasons why you can't or shouldn't, but ignore all that. If it feels like the right path then take it. Find a way. If it IS the right path, it will happen, it will flow and it will feel easy.
Don't let PMDD stand in your way. Almost every woman I have ever spoken too is smart, intelligent and strong. They just need to realise it. They just need to be brave and start to mold their lives around them, find their own way. We are unique women, it just takes time to figure out how to be unique in a world that likes regularity and conformity.
xx ♥
Monday, 15 October 2012
PMDD Awareness UK
It's a new moon today, AND it's PMS AWARENESS WEEK so there is no better time to launch my new project. A place to keep all the campaign work separate to the blogging, and somewhere to focus all the PMDD Awareness stuff....
INTRODUCING.....
https://www.facebook.com/pages/PMDD-Awareness-UK/113398732150471
There will be a new website coming soon!
I will be continuing all the campaigning over there and hopefully we can get bigger and stronger in 2013. I will of course still give updates here, but this new project will give me somewhere to focus more on raising awareness in the UK.
Please come and give me a like, even if you are not in the UK. By fighting for this here, I hope it will change things all around the world. ♥
INTRODUCING.....
https://www.facebook.com/pages/PMDD-Awareness-UK/113398732150471
There will be a new website coming soon!
I will be continuing all the campaigning over there and hopefully we can get bigger and stronger in 2013. I will of course still give updates here, but this new project will give me somewhere to focus more on raising awareness in the UK.
Please come and give me a like, even if you are not in the UK. By fighting for this here, I hope it will change things all around the world. ♥
Friday, 18 May 2012
PMDD and accountability
What is accountability?
In a nutshell it is about being responsible for your actions.
I recently had a friend of mine email me for support because she was getting a hard time from other PMDD sufferers about a video she made for you tube about PMDD and accountability.
This lady was the first person I had found who offered a group for PMDD, a site of valuable information and support. If it weren't for her, I would probably still be out on a limb, not knowing where to turn, along with many other women who found her site all those years ago. She has spent years helping other women with PMDD, and stuck her neck on the line to talk about accountability. A subject that is hard to discuss within the realms of PMDD, and one that raises hackles and gets everyone all jumpy.
PMDD can seem to control you and your actions... verbally and physically. It can turn you into a 'monster', wreck relationships and alienate you from those around you.
The one thing that sets PMDD apart from other illnesses, especially on the mental health front, is the fact that we always return to 'normal'. We realise that we acted out of order or said terrible things. This is one thing that is the most difficult to deal with when in a loving relationship. I recently described it as being whipped up into a tornado and then being dumped out the other side.
So, being accountable for you actions is one step further towards healing. You cannot blame everything on the PMDD. You cannot be a complete bitch to everyone who loves you and expect no one to get hurt, or to end up walking away because of things you've said and done. Normal people without PMDD can get hurt too.
Yes, it's sometimes hard to control an outburst, or to stop yourself from doing something stupid, but ultimately, it is YOU who are doing these things. You are not possessed by the devil, you are not schizophrenic. It may feel like this, but you aren't. You ARE responsible for your actions and what you say.
I remember watching this you tube video years ago, and feeling a whole load of mixed feelings. On one hand I could agree that I should be held accountable for the things I did, but on the other hand, I was thinking... but I can't control it, it's not ME doing these things or saying nasty stuff, it's the PMDD me.... COP OUT! It is me that allows myself to say these things.. it is me that regularly made every ones lives hell.. no one else... ME.
Realising that I have to be accountable, meant I began to try to curb my outbursts. I began to realise that the innocent person in front of me who was only trying to help didn't deserve to have their heads ripped off cos I was having a bad day. Sometimes, an episode was so severe, that I couldn't control it, but over time, I have learned that to heal PMDD and to allow others to love and help me, I absolutely had to find ways of dealing with my bad feelings.
We often take our stuff out on others, and sometimes this isn't even because of something they have done.. it's a past issue that is rearing it's ugly head, and is being channeled into rage for someone else... Often women with PMDD will experience people around them leaving due to the fact they can't deal with the abuse. This then feeds the negative thoughts that you are not worthy of love, that everyone hates you or you are a bad person. YOU ARE WORTHY OF LOVE, YOU DO DESERVE FRIENDS AND RELATIONSHIPS!! but how do you expect loved ones to cope with abuse every month without ending up at breaking point themselves?
Being accountable means you must deal with the consequences of what you say and do. It is a hard topic to get your head around. It is even harder to fight the urge to destroy everything around you, but fight you must, if you want those people to stay in your life. No one owes you anything, and in my experience, those that love you and understand, just want to help and see you happy. They don't then deserve to have strips teared off them. You can sit in guilt and regret, you can feel bad and beat yourself up and then do the same thing every month, OR you can do something about it.
Learning self control and self restraint is key. Learning how to channel that aggressive energy into something other than an offensive outburst is key. After months of damaging my relationship every month via text messages to my partner, that were abusive, nasty, negative, self defeating and unreasonable, we came to the point when we split. That was the consequences of my actions. Luckily, there was enough love and strength there to come back together after a break, but not without big discussions regarding what we both needed. I needed more support.. how the hell I thought I was going to get more support by freezing him out and sending him nasty messages I do not know.... He needed the messages to stop, and for me to allow him to help rather than target him as an enemy. That was a year ago, and thankfully we are still together and very happy.
Nowadays, I stay away from my phone on bad days. I sleep it off, or find something to occupy my mind. Occasionally.. and it is very occasionally, I slip up and a nasty text will wing its way to him at work... I'm hurting for whatever reason, usually during a wobbly time of the month and I will want him to hurt.. except, I don't want him to hurt, I want him with me, helping, consoling me, but because he's not, I get angry and I may lose control for a second. I always regret it and end up apologising straight away, but I run the risk of that text being the text that makes him walk away...
STOP and THINK before you allow yourself to run at the mouth. Take a minute to think about how that text, status update or answerphone message will be recieved. Does that person really deserve it? Is there a better way to express the anger and rage? Would it be better to go to bed, take a bath or go for a walk? When you start helping yourself and controlling your PMDD, you will find others are more willing to help and try and understand.
If you still believe that you are not in control and that when a PMDD episode takes over you should not be held accountable for your actions then ponder this...
We often relate to feeling like another person, an evil twin, Jekyll and Hyde... when we are in the 'other' state we may feel like we have schizophrenia... yet we do not have schizophrenia...
We are both blessed and cursed in that we do still have our right mind somewhere in there. It may be clouded with emotions and negativity, but it is still there. Unlike schizophrenic people who lose all concept of the real person they are and end up with a complete different personality for days or weeks, we always return to ourselves, often stronger than we were before.
If a schizophrenic person committed a crime, say, a murder.. does that mean we should let them off because they were not in their right mind? If a women with PMDD did something terrible during an outburst, should they not be held accountable? I'm pretty sure, in one way or another, that person would need to be sectioned or imprisoned, they are a danger to society because they do not know what they have done.... Obviously this is a hypothetical example, but if the negative reactions, aggressive and abusive outbursts are not controlled then who knows what you could be capable of.
I'm not going to get into here about diminished responsibility and the times that PMDD has been used in court, but it has, and on those occasions, it is accepted that the PMDD caused the person to be acting out of character. Those are extreme cases, and each would be looked into individually. I'm sure no one would want to end up in a situation like this, so being responsible for your actions on a basic daily level is important.
You ARE accountable for your actions. If you really feel you aren't, then the problem may be more serious than PMDD or your PMDD may have got so severe you really need to seek more help. PMDD is not an excuse or get out clause for being a total cow to everyone.
And as a PS to the ladies that are leaving nasty, negative comments to my friend who has done SO much to help others with PMDD, check yourselves... You talk of sisterhood yet leave messages that are offensive and nasty to someone who has been brave enough to make a video to try and help, about something that is difficult to talk about... where is the sisterhood there?
You can find the original video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bp1H2eAxDSU
In a nutshell it is about being responsible for your actions.
I recently had a friend of mine email me for support because she was getting a hard time from other PMDD sufferers about a video she made for you tube about PMDD and accountability.
This lady was the first person I had found who offered a group for PMDD, a site of valuable information and support. If it weren't for her, I would probably still be out on a limb, not knowing where to turn, along with many other women who found her site all those years ago. She has spent years helping other women with PMDD, and stuck her neck on the line to talk about accountability. A subject that is hard to discuss within the realms of PMDD, and one that raises hackles and gets everyone all jumpy.
PMDD can seem to control you and your actions... verbally and physically. It can turn you into a 'monster', wreck relationships and alienate you from those around you.
The one thing that sets PMDD apart from other illnesses, especially on the mental health front, is the fact that we always return to 'normal'. We realise that we acted out of order or said terrible things. This is one thing that is the most difficult to deal with when in a loving relationship. I recently described it as being whipped up into a tornado and then being dumped out the other side.
So, being accountable for you actions is one step further towards healing. You cannot blame everything on the PMDD. You cannot be a complete bitch to everyone who loves you and expect no one to get hurt, or to end up walking away because of things you've said and done. Normal people without PMDD can get hurt too.
Yes, it's sometimes hard to control an outburst, or to stop yourself from doing something stupid, but ultimately, it is YOU who are doing these things. You are not possessed by the devil, you are not schizophrenic. It may feel like this, but you aren't. You ARE responsible for your actions and what you say.
I remember watching this you tube video years ago, and feeling a whole load of mixed feelings. On one hand I could agree that I should be held accountable for the things I did, but on the other hand, I was thinking... but I can't control it, it's not ME doing these things or saying nasty stuff, it's the PMDD me.... COP OUT! It is me that allows myself to say these things.. it is me that regularly made every ones lives hell.. no one else... ME.
Realising that I have to be accountable, meant I began to try to curb my outbursts. I began to realise that the innocent person in front of me who was only trying to help didn't deserve to have their heads ripped off cos I was having a bad day. Sometimes, an episode was so severe, that I couldn't control it, but over time, I have learned that to heal PMDD and to allow others to love and help me, I absolutely had to find ways of dealing with my bad feelings.
We often take our stuff out on others, and sometimes this isn't even because of something they have done.. it's a past issue that is rearing it's ugly head, and is being channeled into rage for someone else... Often women with PMDD will experience people around them leaving due to the fact they can't deal with the abuse. This then feeds the negative thoughts that you are not worthy of love, that everyone hates you or you are a bad person. YOU ARE WORTHY OF LOVE, YOU DO DESERVE FRIENDS AND RELATIONSHIPS!! but how do you expect loved ones to cope with abuse every month without ending up at breaking point themselves?
Being accountable means you must deal with the consequences of what you say and do. It is a hard topic to get your head around. It is even harder to fight the urge to destroy everything around you, but fight you must, if you want those people to stay in your life. No one owes you anything, and in my experience, those that love you and understand, just want to help and see you happy. They don't then deserve to have strips teared off them. You can sit in guilt and regret, you can feel bad and beat yourself up and then do the same thing every month, OR you can do something about it.Learning self control and self restraint is key. Learning how to channel that aggressive energy into something other than an offensive outburst is key. After months of damaging my relationship every month via text messages to my partner, that were abusive, nasty, negative, self defeating and unreasonable, we came to the point when we split. That was the consequences of my actions. Luckily, there was enough love and strength there to come back together after a break, but not without big discussions regarding what we both needed. I needed more support.. how the hell I thought I was going to get more support by freezing him out and sending him nasty messages I do not know.... He needed the messages to stop, and for me to allow him to help rather than target him as an enemy. That was a year ago, and thankfully we are still together and very happy.
Nowadays, I stay away from my phone on bad days. I sleep it off, or find something to occupy my mind. Occasionally.. and it is very occasionally, I slip up and a nasty text will wing its way to him at work... I'm hurting for whatever reason, usually during a wobbly time of the month and I will want him to hurt.. except, I don't want him to hurt, I want him with me, helping, consoling me, but because he's not, I get angry and I may lose control for a second. I always regret it and end up apologising straight away, but I run the risk of that text being the text that makes him walk away...
STOP and THINK before you allow yourself to run at the mouth. Take a minute to think about how that text, status update or answerphone message will be recieved. Does that person really deserve it? Is there a better way to express the anger and rage? Would it be better to go to bed, take a bath or go for a walk? When you start helping yourself and controlling your PMDD, you will find others are more willing to help and try and understand.
If you still believe that you are not in control and that when a PMDD episode takes over you should not be held accountable for your actions then ponder this...
We often relate to feeling like another person, an evil twin, Jekyll and Hyde... when we are in the 'other' state we may feel like we have schizophrenia... yet we do not have schizophrenia...
We are both blessed and cursed in that we do still have our right mind somewhere in there. It may be clouded with emotions and negativity, but it is still there. Unlike schizophrenic people who lose all concept of the real person they are and end up with a complete different personality for days or weeks, we always return to ourselves, often stronger than we were before.
If a schizophrenic person committed a crime, say, a murder.. does that mean we should let them off because they were not in their right mind? If a women with PMDD did something terrible during an outburst, should they not be held accountable? I'm pretty sure, in one way or another, that person would need to be sectioned or imprisoned, they are a danger to society because they do not know what they have done.... Obviously this is a hypothetical example, but if the negative reactions, aggressive and abusive outbursts are not controlled then who knows what you could be capable of.
I'm not going to get into here about diminished responsibility and the times that PMDD has been used in court, but it has, and on those occasions, it is accepted that the PMDD caused the person to be acting out of character. Those are extreme cases, and each would be looked into individually. I'm sure no one would want to end up in a situation like this, so being responsible for your actions on a basic daily level is important.
You ARE accountable for your actions. If you really feel you aren't, then the problem may be more serious than PMDD or your PMDD may have got so severe you really need to seek more help. PMDD is not an excuse or get out clause for being a total cow to everyone.
And as a PS to the ladies that are leaving nasty, negative comments to my friend who has done SO much to help others with PMDD, check yourselves... You talk of sisterhood yet leave messages that are offensive and nasty to someone who has been brave enough to make a video to try and help, about something that is difficult to talk about... where is the sisterhood there?
You can find the original video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bp1H2eAxDSU
Thursday, 5 April 2012
Ekphrasis Post
Day 5 of the Health Activist Writers Month Challenge.
Ekphrasis Post. Go to flickr.com/explore and write a post inspired by the image. Can you link it to your health focus? Don’t forget to post the image!
Ekphrasis: a literary description of or commentary on a visual work of art.
Art by http://www.flickr.com/photos/morphicx/7034335579/
I love this type of challenge!! mainly because it always amazes me how the 'chance' picture you come across can be so apt.
Wow... and this image couldn't be more perfect for PMDD. A girl alone on a dirt track. The sky behind full of storm clouds. A cage.
PMDD is certainly a cage of symptoms that has a door on time release. When the turmoil of hormones looses it's grip, the cage door is flung open, allowing the real woman to escape. Freedom. Release. Excitement and energy. We fly away from the PMDD, even if only for a few days. Then, as the cycle turns, the door slams shut, and again, we find ourselves trapped in the crazy emotions and anxiety that our sensitivity to hormones brings. We are walking alone again, along that dirt track, withe the clouds heavy with rain.
Like the girl in the picture, we hold on to this cage, as for some, it is all we know. The cage can be comfortable in that sense. Plus there is an element of not being able to get rid of the cage, as that is to some extent, out of out control. It's like out hands are superglued to the picture.
This picture, encompasses so many elements of PMDD. Why is she sitting down? is she tired of carrying the cage? She watches the colourful birds flying away... almost with envy that they are free and she still has a long way to walk through the storm. It could rain at any moment. There is uncertainty. Just like living with PMDD... The uncertainty of how we will feel from one day to the next. The fear that we will be forever trapped.
But the birds DO fly free. In the same way that every month we find that freedom, and can leave the cage, and the storm, behind.
Ekphrasis Post. Go to flickr.com/explore and write a post inspired by the image. Can you link it to your health focus? Don’t forget to post the image!
Ekphrasis: a literary description of or commentary on a visual work of art.
Art by http://www.flickr.com/photos/morphicx/7034335579/
I love this type of challenge!! mainly because it always amazes me how the 'chance' picture you come across can be so apt.
Wow... and this image couldn't be more perfect for PMDD. A girl alone on a dirt track. The sky behind full of storm clouds. A cage.
PMDD is certainly a cage of symptoms that has a door on time release. When the turmoil of hormones looses it's grip, the cage door is flung open, allowing the real woman to escape. Freedom. Release. Excitement and energy. We fly away from the PMDD, even if only for a few days. Then, as the cycle turns, the door slams shut, and again, we find ourselves trapped in the crazy emotions and anxiety that our sensitivity to hormones brings. We are walking alone again, along that dirt track, withe the clouds heavy with rain.
Like the girl in the picture, we hold on to this cage, as for some, it is all we know. The cage can be comfortable in that sense. Plus there is an element of not being able to get rid of the cage, as that is to some extent, out of out control. It's like out hands are superglued to the picture.
This picture, encompasses so many elements of PMDD. Why is she sitting down? is she tired of carrying the cage? She watches the colourful birds flying away... almost with envy that they are free and she still has a long way to walk through the storm. It could rain at any moment. There is uncertainty. Just like living with PMDD... The uncertainty of how we will feel from one day to the next. The fear that we will be forever trapped.
But the birds DO fly free. In the same way that every month we find that freedom, and can leave the cage, and the storm, behind.
Wednesday, 4 April 2012
I write about my health because...
Day 4 of the Health Activist Writers Month Challenge.
I write about my health because… Reflect on why you write about your health for 15-20 minutes without stopping.
It's weird... for me writing about my life and disorder has become normal, but I guess others may see it as a bit bizarre or self indulgent. I can't imagine NOT writing out the things in my head.
I started blogging over 10 years ago. Back then, I had no idea I had PMDD. My marriage had just ended, a relationship of 10 years. I was on my own in a strange town as I'd moved away with my daughter who was then 3 years old. I had a computer and access to the internet and I was stuck in alone, every single day and night, trying to raise a child and dealing with being single for the first time in my adult.
I relied on chat rooms mainly, for company of an evening and then I discovered blogging. The platform of choice was Diary X and the computer (and internet) was run by hamsters. I could remain anonymous, and I would type out all my feelings and talk about the things that had happened to me in my life. I look back and cringe at the honesty. The things I would reveal and share to the world. I often do the same about some of my earlier posts on this blog, but the honesty has led me to where I am now. Being able to help and comfort hundreds of other women who read my blog.
I write about my health because it gives my mind an outlet. PMDD makes my thoughts spiral. I find myself full of words and no one to say them too. A blog gives me that space to let it all out.
Moods and Musings is 5 years old this year. For the first 3 years, it was a place to feel sorry for myself. It was a place to let out my frustrations. When I started this blog, I had been diagnosed with Pre Menstrual Dysphoric disorder. I didn't blog that regularly, but I knew it was there if I needed it. It was called Moods and Musings as I ofter liked to write about things other than my disorder, and my mind wanders.. I like to indulge that. In the past two years my focus changed. I was fed up with just spilling out my woes, and I also figured that it was all becoming a pretty depressing read. So, I decided to start writing articles and compiling informative blog posts that would have the potential of helping others. At the same time I started a support group on Facebook, that has gone from strength to strength and I now have a total of 3 meeting places on Facebook for women with PMDD.
My health over the past 5 years has also improved. My life has changed dramatically, and in turn has given me more strength to find the positive in things. I have learned better ways of dealing and living with PMDD. I have my journey here in front of me.... and it's out there for others to share.
I still write about my experiences, but I now try to make every post more positive. Yes, women with PMDD are looking for women with similar stories, and to know that they aren't the only one, but they are also looking for alternative ways of coping, for tips, ideas and theories that might shed some light on their life.
So, I now blog because I know I have readers.. because I know that my articles have helped others to come to some realisation that in turn has helped them. I STILL need an outlet for my busy mind and all the thoughts in my head, and for as long as I can find things to write about, I will be blogging!
I write about my health because… Reflect on why you write about your health for 15-20 minutes without stopping.
It's weird... for me writing about my life and disorder has become normal, but I guess others may see it as a bit bizarre or self indulgent. I can't imagine NOT writing out the things in my head.
I started blogging over 10 years ago. Back then, I had no idea I had PMDD. My marriage had just ended, a relationship of 10 years. I was on my own in a strange town as I'd moved away with my daughter who was then 3 years old. I had a computer and access to the internet and I was stuck in alone, every single day and night, trying to raise a child and dealing with being single for the first time in my adult.
I relied on chat rooms mainly, for company of an evening and then I discovered blogging. The platform of choice was Diary X and the computer (and internet) was run by hamsters. I could remain anonymous, and I would type out all my feelings and talk about the things that had happened to me in my life. I look back and cringe at the honesty. The things I would reveal and share to the world. I often do the same about some of my earlier posts on this blog, but the honesty has led me to where I am now. Being able to help and comfort hundreds of other women who read my blog.
I write about my health because it gives my mind an outlet. PMDD makes my thoughts spiral. I find myself full of words and no one to say them too. A blog gives me that space to let it all out.
Moods and Musings is 5 years old this year. For the first 3 years, it was a place to feel sorry for myself. It was a place to let out my frustrations. When I started this blog, I had been diagnosed with Pre Menstrual Dysphoric disorder. I didn't blog that regularly, but I knew it was there if I needed it. It was called Moods and Musings as I ofter liked to write about things other than my disorder, and my mind wanders.. I like to indulge that. In the past two years my focus changed. I was fed up with just spilling out my woes, and I also figured that it was all becoming a pretty depressing read. So, I decided to start writing articles and compiling informative blog posts that would have the potential of helping others. At the same time I started a support group on Facebook, that has gone from strength to strength and I now have a total of 3 meeting places on Facebook for women with PMDD.
My health over the past 5 years has also improved. My life has changed dramatically, and in turn has given me more strength to find the positive in things. I have learned better ways of dealing and living with PMDD. I have my journey here in front of me.... and it's out there for others to share.
I still write about my experiences, but I now try to make every post more positive. Yes, women with PMDD are looking for women with similar stories, and to know that they aren't the only one, but they are also looking for alternative ways of coping, for tips, ideas and theories that might shed some light on their life.
So, I now blog because I know I have readers.. because I know that my articles have helped others to come to some realisation that in turn has helped them. I STILL need an outlet for my busy mind and all the thoughts in my head, and for as long as I can find things to write about, I will be blogging!
Tuesday, 3 April 2012
Superpower Day!
Day 3 of the Health Activist Writers Month Challenge.
Superpower Day. If you had a superpower – what would it be? How would you use it?
It took me a long time to think of an answer to this as I believe that there are many 'powers' that us humans have that are pretty super!
If I were to have a superpower, it would have to be teleportation. I would love to be able to go anywhere in the world at the wiggle of a nose.. in a kitch Bewitched stylee!
On my bad days, I could zip over to Australia or America to meet up with some of my very good online friends who are also sufferers of PMDD, or find myself sitting on a beach in Hawaii while it pours down with rain the in UK.
I'm not the best at traveling, especially alone, so to be able to think about where I want to go, then pop up there a few seconds later would just be the best power.
I could go see bands that I love when they tour everywhere except for England, and catch things early in the cinema!!
I would nip over to New York to meet my favourite artist Alex Grey and attend one of his full moon events, and enrol on some of the courses in the USA that I just simply drool over when reading about!
The first place I would go is to India. It has been my dream destination since I was a child. I am Anglo Indian, and would love to spend time over there and visit where my grandparents lived... I would visit all the amazing historic places around the globe, but not before purchasing a very fancy camera so I could log all my travels!
Superpower Day. If you had a superpower – what would it be? How would you use it?
It took me a long time to think of an answer to this as I believe that there are many 'powers' that us humans have that are pretty super!
If I were to have a superpower, it would have to be teleportation. I would love to be able to go anywhere in the world at the wiggle of a nose.. in a kitch Bewitched stylee!
On my bad days, I could zip over to Australia or America to meet up with some of my very good online friends who are also sufferers of PMDD, or find myself sitting on a beach in Hawaii while it pours down with rain the in UK.
I'm not the best at traveling, especially alone, so to be able to think about where I want to go, then pop up there a few seconds later would just be the best power.
I could go see bands that I love when they tour everywhere except for England, and catch things early in the cinema!!
I would nip over to New York to meet my favourite artist Alex Grey and attend one of his full moon events, and enrol on some of the courses in the USA that I just simply drool over when reading about!
The first place I would go is to India. It has been my dream destination since I was a child. I am Anglo Indian, and would love to spend time over there and visit where my grandparents lived... I would visit all the amazing historic places around the globe, but not before purchasing a very fancy camera so I could log all my travels!
Monday, 2 April 2012
Quotation Inspiration
Day 2 of the Health Activist Writers Month Challenge.
Quotation Inspiration. Find a quote that inspires you (either positively or negatively) and free write about it for 15 minutes.
It is often talked about that to gauge happiness, we have to experience sadness. Without something to measure it against, we would be oblivious to the different states of mind. The main difference between life with PMDD and life without PMDD is the monthly cycle. If you don't have PMDD, happy times can last longer than a few days. With PMDD, you know that inevitably, the clouds will roll in eventually and your mood will drop. I know that every sufferer lives in hope that this month will be the month when it doesn't happen, only to feel frustrated and disappointed when it does.
As the quote suggests, it is much better to take every day as it comes and react accordingly. This is not easy with the busy lives we lead, with commitments and duties, but if you want to get through each month without a major breakdown, it is often essential. When we say that PMDD affects every single aspect of your life, every single day of the month we are not exaggerating.
Patience is also key. The dictionary describes patience as 'the bearing of provocation, annoyance, misfortune, or pain, without complaint, loss of temper, irritation, or the like'. 'An ability or willingness to suppress restlessness or annoyance when confronted with delay' and 'a quiet, steady perseverance; even-tempered care; diligence.' When your mood drops, you are likely to be confronted with many negative emotions. Everything can annoy you, frustrate you and cause anxiety. The one thing we can be sure of during these times, is that they are temporary, and the same things in a week or so, will not affect you in the same way. Therefore, to be patient, with yourself and others is a really good way to get through these trying times.
Equanimity is an evenness of mind especially under stress. This is very challenging for a woman with PMDD, as the usual perceptions of life and the world around them is twisted and warped, however, if we can try to strive for this calm, by keeping centered, then we can get through the rough times with less stress. Other words to described equanimity are, composure, collectedness, serenity and tranquility. It's about staying in the centre of the wheel, while the world spins around you, rather then falling into the outer rim of the wheel and being spun around and caught up in the crazy emotions.
Women with PMDD are actually blessed with being able to feel the full spectrum of emotions, and as the quote suggests, it is essential to accept the dark times as a valuable measure of the good times. Women with PMDD can achieve great things, they hold great strength within and are very intelligent and capable. Every success is even sweeter when accomplished alongside PMDD, as the road to get there is more difficult for them than it is for others.
If I were to sum up PMDD visually, it would be a Yin Yang. The black side, representing the bad days, but with a spot of white to remind you this is temporary and good things ARE possible. With the flip side being the white side, that will always contain a spot of black, representing the fact that you have travelled through dark times to reach this place. It also symbolises the fact that within the good times, there is always a pang that the dark times will come, and more importantly, within the dark times, there is always light at the end of the tunnel. Clear thinking will always return and life will feel good again.
Quotation Inspiration. Find a quote that inspires you (either positively or negatively) and free write about it for 15 minutes.
Even a happy life cannot be without a measure of darkness, and the word happy would lose its meaning if it were not balanced by sadness. It is far better to take things as they come along, with patience and equanimity.I have chosen this quote as sufferers of PMDD are on a constant mission to find happiness, often forgetting that everyone is on the same mission. The reason it becomes such an obsession is because PMDD leads the sufferer to experience extreme states of depression and anxiety, often without the equal amount of euphoria on the 'good' days, as with bipolar sufferers. Sure, with my PMDD I experience a rush of energy and feelings of happiness, but due to the rapid cycling of symptoms, it can sometimes be clouded by the knowledge that this will be short lived.
Carl Jung
It is often talked about that to gauge happiness, we have to experience sadness. Without something to measure it against, we would be oblivious to the different states of mind. The main difference between life with PMDD and life without PMDD is the monthly cycle. If you don't have PMDD, happy times can last longer than a few days. With PMDD, you know that inevitably, the clouds will roll in eventually and your mood will drop. I know that every sufferer lives in hope that this month will be the month when it doesn't happen, only to feel frustrated and disappointed when it does.
As the quote suggests, it is much better to take every day as it comes and react accordingly. This is not easy with the busy lives we lead, with commitments and duties, but if you want to get through each month without a major breakdown, it is often essential. When we say that PMDD affects every single aspect of your life, every single day of the month we are not exaggerating.
Patience is also key. The dictionary describes patience as 'the bearing of provocation, annoyance, misfortune, or pain, without complaint, loss of temper, irritation, or the like'. 'An ability or willingness to suppress restlessness or annoyance when confronted with delay' and 'a quiet, steady perseverance; even-tempered care; diligence.' When your mood drops, you are likely to be confronted with many negative emotions. Everything can annoy you, frustrate you and cause anxiety. The one thing we can be sure of during these times, is that they are temporary, and the same things in a week or so, will not affect you in the same way. Therefore, to be patient, with yourself and others is a really good way to get through these trying times.
Equanimity is an evenness of mind especially under stress. This is very challenging for a woman with PMDD, as the usual perceptions of life and the world around them is twisted and warped, however, if we can try to strive for this calm, by keeping centered, then we can get through the rough times with less stress. Other words to described equanimity are, composure, collectedness, serenity and tranquility. It's about staying in the centre of the wheel, while the world spins around you, rather then falling into the outer rim of the wheel and being spun around and caught up in the crazy emotions.
Women with PMDD are actually blessed with being able to feel the full spectrum of emotions, and as the quote suggests, it is essential to accept the dark times as a valuable measure of the good times. Women with PMDD can achieve great things, they hold great strength within and are very intelligent and capable. Every success is even sweeter when accomplished alongside PMDD, as the road to get there is more difficult for them than it is for others.
If I were to sum up PMDD visually, it would be a Yin Yang. The black side, representing the bad days, but with a spot of white to remind you this is temporary and good things ARE possible. With the flip side being the white side, that will always contain a spot of black, representing the fact that you have travelled through dark times to reach this place. It also symbolises the fact that within the good times, there is always a pang that the dark times will come, and more importantly, within the dark times, there is always light at the end of the tunnel. Clear thinking will always return and life will feel good again.
Sunday, 1 April 2012
PMDD Time Capsule
Day 1 of the Health Activist Writers Month Challenge.
Health Time Capsule. Pretend you’re making a time capsule of you & your health focus that won’t be opened until 2112. What’s in it? What would people think of it when they found it?
If I created a time capsule for PMDD, I would have to include a few books on the subject.
The PMDD Phenomenon by Diana Dell would be one, as it was the first book I read about PMDD that helped me chart and get diagnosed. From the medical point of view it covers pretty much everything you need to know about PMDD although sadly, now out of print and a little out of date, it was a saving grace when everything else failed to give me the information I needed.
My book!! Obviously, I would need to finish it first! It will be a compilation of many women's personal stories of their PMDD. This book will be the real life version of PMDD.. in women's own words.
The Women's Quest workbook by Alexandra Pope. This workbook enabled me to understand my menstrual cycle in a different way, and showed me that it isn't all bad, and there are valid reasons for the up's and down's. I attribute most of my healing to this way of thinking and continue to learn about the spiritual side of the menstrual cycle and it's gifts. Learning to observe and keep calm is essential to keeping on track and not letting you mind spin out of control.
Mood Charts to show the people of the future how much information is needed to diagnose PMDD. Very few people realise how much this disorder affect every aspect of your life, and how hard it is to get the correct diagnosis.
A Mooncup. This simple little device has helped my periods get lighter and less painful. It is eco-friendly and means a lot less waste going into landfill. I think everyone should try one!! I have been using one for 8 months and my periods are now very light and only last a few days. It's a fantastic little invention.
My Menstrual Cycle Energy Poster, that illustrates the symbolic nature of the menstrual cycle.
I would also include some of my art that I created about PMDD.
Health Time Capsule. Pretend you’re making a time capsule of you & your health focus that won’t be opened until 2112. What’s in it? What would people think of it when they found it?
If I created a time capsule for PMDD, I would have to include a few books on the subject.
The PMDD Phenomenon by Diana Dell would be one, as it was the first book I read about PMDD that helped me chart and get diagnosed. From the medical point of view it covers pretty much everything you need to know about PMDD although sadly, now out of print and a little out of date, it was a saving grace when everything else failed to give me the information I needed.
My book!! Obviously, I would need to finish it first! It will be a compilation of many women's personal stories of their PMDD. This book will be the real life version of PMDD.. in women's own words.
The Women's Quest workbook by Alexandra Pope. This workbook enabled me to understand my menstrual cycle in a different way, and showed me that it isn't all bad, and there are valid reasons for the up's and down's. I attribute most of my healing to this way of thinking and continue to learn about the spiritual side of the menstrual cycle and it's gifts. Learning to observe and keep calm is essential to keeping on track and not letting you mind spin out of control.
Mood Charts to show the people of the future how much information is needed to diagnose PMDD. Very few people realise how much this disorder affect every aspect of your life, and how hard it is to get the correct diagnosis.
A Mooncup. This simple little device has helped my periods get lighter and less painful. It is eco-friendly and means a lot less waste going into landfill. I think everyone should try one!! I have been using one for 8 months and my periods are now very light and only last a few days. It's a fantastic little invention.
My Menstrual Cycle Energy Poster, that illustrates the symbolic nature of the menstrual cycle.
I would also include some of my art that I created about PMDD.
Wednesday, 28 March 2012
30 Day Blog challenge for April 2012
I will be participating in a new activity this April.
The Health Activist Writer's Month Challenge hosted by WEGO Health.
I will be writing a post a day for all 30 days. If you write a blog, I hope you'll join me in writing every day about health. It's going to be a lot of fun and I'd love to see what you have to say about each of the topics, too. I've seen the topics and am looking forward to using the prompts to create some interesting posts!
All you have to do to join is sign up here: http://info.wegohealth.com/HAWMC2012 and you'll be able to start posting once April rolls around.
Gotta love a challenge eh!
The Health Activist Writer's Month Challenge hosted by WEGO Health.
I will be writing a post a day for all 30 days. If you write a blog, I hope you'll join me in writing every day about health. It's going to be a lot of fun and I'd love to see what you have to say about each of the topics, too. I've seen the topics and am looking forward to using the prompts to create some interesting posts!
All you have to do to join is sign up here: http://info.wegohealth.com/HAWMC2012 and you'll be able to start posting once April rolls around.
Gotta love a challenge eh!
Wednesday, 7 March 2012
PMDD Posters!
In the KEEP CALM style that is so popular, I have created some simple web posters for you to use!
I hope you like them! Feel free to copy/download and share, just please don't remove my website address.
If you can think of any other good ones, let me know in the comments below! I can make more!
All design by Cat Stone 2012.
I hope you like them! Feel free to copy/download and share, just please don't remove my website address.
If you can think of any other good ones, let me know in the comments below! I can make more!
All design by Cat Stone 2012.
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