Help-seeking behaviours and experiences for mental health symptoms related to the menstrual cycle: a UK-wide exploratory survey

Abstract

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) are menstrual cycle-related disorders characterised by psychological and physical symptoms which impact functioning. Little is known about avenues for help-seeking for these disorders. Therefore, we sought to examine help-seeking behaviours and experiences. An online survey was delivered and data from 530 participants whose mental health was affected by their menstrual cycle were analysed. All participants endorsed at least one premenstrual symptom, with 97.17% experiencing functional impairment. Help was sought by 64.91% (online: 29.81%; formal: 7.36%; online and formal: 27.74%), with 78.49% perceiving that their symptoms were not taken seriously when seeking formal help. Most sought help online to look up symptoms (85.57%) and treatment options (39.67%). The study revealed an association between premenstrual symptoms and mental wellbeing, as well as revealing a high prevalence of online help-seeking, emphasising the need for high-quality, evidence-based online resources and improvement of formal care provision.