👋 Tell us about yourself! What is your name, age, location, & occupation?

My name is Chase, I'm a 23 year old mom of two from Nashville, TN and I am a full time content creator. I love to travel and am super passionate about mental health and self growth.

How did you discover that you had PMDD? What symptoms, situations & resources led you to this diagnosis? 

I first discovered I had PMDD a few months after I was diagnosed with ADHD at the age of 21. I was classified as an “overly emotional” child growing up and it was actually just stemming from the ADHD and PMDD. I would only ever have about one good week out of each month and the two weeks leading up to my menstrual cycle I would become a completely different person than I thought I was. I struggled with severe depression, anxiety, rage (postpartum rage got really bad during this time), suicidal ideations, it was extremely hard for me to get out of bed, my emotions were intensified by a million, the list goes on.

As soon as I would start my menstrual cycle, all of these symptoms would fade away. I always chalked it up to severe PMS until I came across a video of PMDD and how a lot of women with ADHD also struggle with this. I brought it up to my doctor and he was really surprised because I was the first ever patient he had that ever brought it up on their own.

What are 3 things you want other people with PMDD or similar symptoms to know?

Even though we can’t see PMDD, it is still very real. Three symptoms that are PMDD related and NOT PMS related are: feelings of hopelessness, losing interest in activities you usually enjoy, and experiencing suicidal thoughts

At Aavia, we know that lifestyle modifications can help manage and reduce symptoms. What has been the most effective for you in managing PMDD?

PMDD doesn’t have a cure but things can definitely help! I was prescribed an antidepressant that has helped manage my emotions during this stage of my cycle and that has helped more than anything. Rest is another component that has helped manage my PMDD. Let your body and mind rest and recover. It’s such a draining thing to go through and instead of trying to push through, allowing myself time to rest has been extremely beneficial.

What are your luteal phase must-haves/do’s to feel better?

• Some form of caffeine (Diet Coke for me)

• An everything shower

• Napping as much as possible

• Stretchy pants

• Heating pad

• Pimple patches

Where can our members find you?

IG: @chasebmarlin

TikTok: @chasebmarlin