Vicky Pattison has revealed that she “spent the best part of the last 10 years” believing she was “descending into madness” before she was finally diagnosed with a health condition.
In a heartfelt interview, the former Geordie Shore star discussed her struggle with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), recounting how medical professionals initially dismissed her symptoms, telling her there was “nothing wrong”.
The NHS describes PMDD as an extreme form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), marked by similar but more severe symptoms, including headaches, joint and muscle pain, sleep disturbances, overeating, anger, anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts.
Vicky recounted how doctors had implied she was just being “weak and dramatic”, leaving her to grapple with feelings of “madness” for nearly a decade. However, receiving her diagnosis was a “liberating” moment for her.
Vicky said she feels “angry” that women “are not listened to”
(Image: Mike Marsland/Getty Images for P)
Speaking to Heat magazine, she said: “I spent the best part of the last 10 years thinking I was descending into madness, being told by doctors there was nothing wrong with me. They were insinuating that I was just weak and dramatic,” reports Chronicle Live.
She continued, expressing the relief of her diagnosis: “When I finally got my diagnosis, it was the most liberating feeling. I thought, ‘You’re not weak, you’re not horrible, you’re not depressed – you have a disorder’.”
Vicky expressed frustration over a lack of attention given to women’s health issues, stating she feels “angry” that women “are not listened to”. She also criticised what she feels is the inadequate education provided to women about their bodies.
The TV personality is determined to “continue to shout” about PMDD and “be a voice” for others.
Vicky added that she will “continue to shout” about her condition
(Image: Getty Images for Orion Books)
She acknowledged some people are “sick to death” of her “little period pot” on Instagram, but suggested those who find her content unhelpful should simply stop following her.
The NHS said the causes of PMDD aren’t clear, but it has been associated with sensitivity to hormonal changes or variations in the genes passed down via your parents.
Meanwhile, Johns Hopkins Medicine said PMDD could be an abnormal response to regular hormonal changes that occur with each menstrual cycle.
The NHS has urged people to call 999 or go to A and E if they have PMDD symptoms and feel suicidal.
Further information on PMS and PMDD can be found on the NHS website.