Supporting people with PMDD (Two-Part Podcast)

Supporting people with PMDD (Two-Part Podcast)

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Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, is a severe form of PMS that causes significant emotional and physical symptoms during the 1-2 weeks before menstruation. Symptoms include severe mood swings, anxiety, and depression, which can negatively impact daily life, work, and relationships. Physical symptoms like bloating, headaches, and fatigue are also common.

In Part 1, PDA Society speaks with Kirstie McStay, Community Manager at Spectrum Gaming, about PMDD, exploring how cyclical hormonal changes can affect mood, wellbeing and daily functioning. Kirstie shares personal insight into what PMDD can feel like, and how symptoms can intensify distress, anxiety and overwhelm in ways that are often misunderstood.

The conversation looks at how PMDD can impact relationships, work and self-perception, particularly when symptoms shift dramatically across the month. It also highlights the importance of being believed, tracking patterns, and recognising that what can look like a sudden change in behaviour or mood may be connected to hormonal cycles and a very real health condition.

Part 1 focuses on understanding, building awareness, and creating a compassionate framework for recognising symptoms and seeking support.

Content warning – This episode includes discussion of suicidal thoughts. In particular, there is a brief section between 6:50 and 7:10 that listeners may wish to approach with care. Please listen in a way that feels safe and supportive for you.

In Part 2, PDA Society continues the conversation with Kirstie McStay, Community Manager at Spectrum Gaming, about PMDD, focusing on what can help when living with PMDD, and how support can be shaped with understanding, dignity and compassion.

Kirstie reflects on practical strategies for navigating the most difficult weeks, including reducing demands where possible, planning for lower capacity periods, and communicating needs within relationships and work. The discussion also explores how shame and self-blame can build when symptoms are minimised or dismissed, and why informed support and validation can make a meaningful difference.

Part 2 offers deeper reflection, alongside reassurance for anyone who recognises these patterns and is looking for language, understanding and a way forward.

Content warning – This episode includes discussion of suicidal thoughts. In particular, there is a section between 14:30 and 16:20 that listeners may wish to approach with care. Please listen in a way that feels safe and supportive for you.

Disclaimer

The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the PDA Society. While we aim to provide balanced and inclusive discussions, individual experiences and perspectives may vary. The PDA Society is committed to using language and terminology that reflects the preferences of PDAers and autistic people, but sometimes our guests may use language and terminology which differs. Appearance on our podcast is not an endorsement of an individual, and not all of our guests will align with our position on the issues discussed.