Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Barkha ChikaraChief Medical Officer, MD (Psychiatry) from NIMHANS · Last reviewed October 2026Premenstrual dysphoric disorder is a severe condition in which strong mood symptoms, such as irritability, low mood and anxiety, appear in the week before a period and ease soon after it starts. It is more severe than PMS, can affect work and relationships, and can be assessed and treated.
About 1 in 10 adults in India lives with a mental disorder (National Mental Health Survey, 2015-16). You are not alone.
At a glance
Common signs
- Severe irritability and anger
- Marked depression before period
- Anxiety and tension
- Mood swings
Where to start
A free pre-consultation call, then a video assessment with a psychiatrist. In danger? Call 112, or Tele-MANAS on 14416.
Book your free pre-consultation callRegistered clinicians: psychiatrists with their State Medical Council, psychologists with the Rehabilitation Council of India.
Signs
Tick any that feel familiar. This is not a diagnosis, only a clinician can assess you.
0 ticked. If these have been with you for a while, a free pre-consultation call is a good next step.
Book your free pre-consultation callHow people often describe it
- “My mood crashes badly before my period”
- “I feel very angry or hopeless a week before periods”
- “My relationships suffer every month”
- “I feel normal again once my period starts”
People who live with premenstrual dysphoric disorder may also notice depression, generalised anxiety or sleep problems. If any of these sound familiar, mention them to your clinician so your plan can cover them.
When to get help soon
Get help soon if you have thoughts of harming yourself, especially in the days before a period. Call Tele-MANAS on 14416 or 112.
How it is diagnosed
A psychiatrist usually asks you to track symptoms against your cycle for at least two cycles, because the timing is what separates PMDD from other conditions. They also check for depression or anxiety that worsens before a period, and a gynaecologist may be involved.
Treatment and support
- Tracking symptoms daily across the cycle
- CBT and coping skills for the high-risk days
- Sleep, activity and nutrition support
- Coordinated care with your gynaecologist where needed
How Mindly helps
Mindly's psychiatrists help you track your cycle, confirm the pattern and build a plan, with your gynaecologist involved if needed. All care is online, by video.
Your first appointment
A psychiatrist listens to your mood, sleep, appetite, energy and daily life over the past weeks, and asks about earlier episodes, other illness and family history.
Who is involved
A psychiatrist leads your care. A clinical psychologist can join for talk therapy, and the two share one plan.
Between sessions
Regular reviews check how you are feeling and sleeping, and your plan is adjusted as you improve.
What to expect
- Free pre-consultation callWe take your history and details, and match you with the right clinician.
- First consultationA video call in your language, with a clinician who already has your report.
- Your planYour clinician agrees a plan with you: therapy, medicine or both, as suits you.
- Follow-up reviewsRegular check-ins, and your plan is adjusted as you recover.
- Staying wellSupport to keep you well and catch early signs of a setback.
Every Mindly plan includes a second opinion from our Chief Medical Officer, a diagnosis-first approach and regular tracking of your recovery. How Mindly care works
Book your free pre-consultation callYour privacy and confidentiality. What you share with Mindly Health stays between you and your care team. Your conversations, reports and messages are treated as confidential and shared only with the team members involved in your care, apart from the limited cases where the law requires it or someone's safety is at serious risk. Read our Privacy Policy and your rights under the Mental Healthcare Act.
Common questions
Is PMDD different from PMS?
Yes. PMS is common and usually mild. PMDD is much more severe, with strong mood symptoms that disrupt daily life, and needs assessment.
How is PMDD diagnosed?
By tracking symptoms across at least two cycles and ruling out other causes, with a psychiatrist's assessment.
Is it all in my head?
No. PMDD is a recognised medical condition and it is treatable.
If you or someone near you is in danger, call 112. For free support at any hour, call Tele-MANAS on 14416. Mindly Health is not an emergency service.
Clinicians with a focus in this area
Dr. Samarth S ShettyPsychiatrist
Ms. Kamakshi SabharwalClinical Psychologist
Dr. Nevedita DasPsychiatrist - Telepsychiatry & Evidence-Based Care
Ms. Janvi KhokharClinical Psychologist
Dr. Pooja RaniPsychiatrist
Online care in your city
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