diagnosis needed

Right now I am experiencing extreme depression-- the symptoms I have almost all point to PMS or a PMDD (premenstual dysphoric disorder).  I am often depressed about various things in my life, but these things I realize are not as bad as I make them out to be. I have lived a quite happy life, with no major complicating things happening to me.  But from time to time-- some times more than others-- I have helpless feeling which I cannot shake, despite ration. I feel alienanted and apathetic. I know that these feelings are not tangible and are probably due to some imbalance in my brain.  This is due to some research I have done on the subject.  However, PMDD occurs on a cycle with one's period.  That was the case with me up until just recently.  I started feeling like this about a few weeks prior to my period, which is just ending.

[HFHS M.D.-SW]

Dear Sica Norse,

The symptoms you are presenting with are not unusual with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, (PDD), once referred to as PMS.  Symptoms may include depression, anxiety, affective lability, anger or irritability, difficulty concentrating, and fatigue. Symptoms begin during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle (1-2 weeks prior to onset of menstruation), and stop within the first few days of menses.
Treatment is available to reduce the symptoms.  A type of antidepressant, the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) are considered the treatment of choice.  I recommend you contact your gynecologist or a psychiatrist specialized in PDD.
If you live in the Detroit area you may contact. Henry Ford Behavioral
Health at 248-689-7476.
Sincerely.

HFHS M.D.-SW

*Keywords: premenstual dysphoric disorder. depression