If you’re wondering “What does a PMDD episode look like?”, you’re likely searching for answers to explain some difficult, exhausting, and bewildering feelings. Trust me, I get it—because I’ve been there. For many women, including myself and my clients, a PMDD episode feels like stepping into an alternate reality where everything is harder, heavier, and way more intense.
As a third-generation PMDD sufferer, I’ve come to understand my own experience as part of a larger, inherited struggle—my mother and grandmother both faced the same battles. But here’s something important I’ve learned: by calling them “episodes,” I remind myself that these feelings are temporary. They don’t last forever, even when they feel all-consuming. This mindset shift has been empowering for both me and my clients, giving us permission to ride out the storm with hope that brighter days are ahead.
Common Signs of a PMDD Episode
So, what does a PMDD episode actually look like? Here are the classic signs many women (including myself) experience:
1. Apathy & the CBF Attitude During a PMDD Episode
PMDD often shows up as a strong sense of apathy—cue the “CBF” (Can’t Be F***ed) attitude. Everyday tasks like showering, meal prep, or even basic life maintenance suddenly feel like mountains to climb. You know you should do them, but there’s zero motivation. It’s as if you’re watching yourself sit on the couch, knowing what needs to be done but simply unable to move.
2. Exhaustion, Fatigue & Joint Pain
PMDD fatigue isn’t your regular tiredness—it’s exhaustion so deep it feels like your bones are aching. Paired with joint pain, it makes getting out of bed or tackling simple tasks feel monumental.
3. Anxious Thoughts on Repeat
During an episode, it’s common to have anxious thoughts running on a loop. You may find yourself replaying conversations, catastrophising, or overthinking every decision. It feels like your brain is stuck in overdrive, making it tough to focus on anything else.
4. Suicidal Intrusive Thoughts
One of the scarier aspects of PMDD is the appearance of suicidal intrusive thoughts. These thoughts can be frightening, but they don’t reflect how you actually feel outside of an episode. If you experience this, you’re not alone, and having a support plan in place is crucial.
5. Sensitivity to Temperature, Noise & Light
Many women experience heightened sensitivity during PMDD episodes. Small sounds can feel deafening, bright lights disorienting, and you may feel uncomfortably hot or cold. This sensory overload makes everyday life more challenging.
6. Thirst & Binge Eating
An insatiable thirst often accompanies PMDD, along with intense cravings and binge eating. You might find yourself reaching for comfort foods to soothe the emotional chaos, even when you’re not physically hungry.
7. PMDD-Induced Self-Sabotage & Impulsive Decisions
During a PMDD episode, you might feel an overwhelming urge to change everything—your job, your relationships, even your hairstyle. These impulsive thoughts are rooted in the discomfort of the moment. In fact, this is how I ended up with a Dalmatian! I needed a big change, and here we are—no regrets, but the decision was driven by a PMDD episode.
PMDD Episodes Are Temporary, but Support Is Essential
PMDD episodes are temporary, but the impact they have is real. Understanding and tracking your symptoms can be life-changing. I always encourage my clients to track their cycle for at least two months. Download my FREE PMDD Symptom Tracker to start recognising your patterns.
If this all sounds a little too familiar, you’re not alone. Reach out to a healthcare provider who understands PMDD, and don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself. You deserve support, understanding, and a plan for managing life with PMDD.
For more helpful insights, check out these blogs:
- How to Get a PMDD Diagnosis in Australia
- How to Set Boundaries with PMDD: Protecting Your Peace and Well-Being
By staying informed and proactive, you can find a path to peace and well-being, even during the most challenging PMDD episodes.
