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Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder Symptoms and Related DSM–5 Diagnosis

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder 625.4 (N94.3)
Information related to Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder as well as the specific symptoms follow below. While some of these Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder symptoms may be recognized by family, teachers, legal and medical professionals, and others, only properly trained mental health professionals (psychologists, psychiatrists, professional counselors etc.) can or should even attempt to make a mental health diagnosis. A multitude of factors are considered in addition to the psychological symptoms in making a proper diagnosis, including medical and psychological testing considerations. This information is for information purposes only and should never replace the judgment and comprehensive assessment of a trained mental health clinician.

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder 625.4 (N94.3) Diagnostic Criteria:
A. In the majority of menstrual cycles, at least five symptoms must be present in the final week before the onset of menses, start to improve within a few days after the onset of menses, and become minimal or absent in the week postmenses.
B. One (or more) of the following symptoms must be present:
1. Marked affective lability such as mood swings; feeling suddenly sad or tearful, or increased sensitivity to rejection.
2. Marked irritability or anger or increased interpersonal conflicts.
3. Marked depressed mood, feelings of hopelessness, or self-deprecating thoughts.
4. Marked anxiety, tension, and/or feelings of being keyed up or on edge.
C. One (or more) of the following symptoms must additionally be present, to reach a total of five symptoms, when combined with symptoms from criterion B above.
1. Decreased interest in usual activities such as work, school, friends and hobbies.
2. Subjective difficulty in concentration.
3. Lethargy, easy fatigability, or marked lack of energy.
4. Marked change in appetite, overeating or specific food cravings.
5. Hypersomnia or insomnia.
6. A sense of being overwhelmed or out of control.
7. Physical symptoms such as breast tenderness or swelling, joint or muscle pain, a sensation of being bloated or weight gain.
Note: The symptoms in criteria A-C must have been met for most menstrual cycles that occurred in the preceding year.
D. The symptoms are associated with clinically significant distress or interference with school, work, usual social activities, or relationships with others such as avoidance of social activities; decreased productivity and efficiency at work, school or home.
E. The disturbance is not merely an exacerbation of the symptoms of another disorder, such as major depressive disorder, panic disorder, persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia), or personality disorder (although it may co-occur with any of these disorders).
F. Criterion A should be confirmed by prospective daily ratings during at least two symptomatic cycles. (Note: The diagnosis may be made provisionally prior to this confirmation).
G. The symptoms are not attributable to the physiological effects of a substance such as drug of abuse, a medication, other treatment or another medical condition such as hyperthyroidism.
Adapted by Paul Susic Ph.D. Licensed Psychologist from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5) American Psychiatric Association