Drawing on clinical and research expertise, Dr. Nayman will unpack how hormonal fluctuations impact emotional coping, and whether traditional psychotherapy models are enough. This session will examine the potential need for cycle-sensitive approaches to better support those living with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
Summary
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is characterized by intense emotional symptoms, making the role of emotion regulation essential in understanding and treating the condition. Traditional psychotherapeutic approaches often target stable, trait-like processes, such as habitual rumination or cognitive reappraisal. However, emerging evidence suggests that these approaches may not be sufficient for addressing the dynamic symptom patterns observed in PMDD. Recent findings highlight the importance of timing - emotion regulation support could be particularly effective during specific phases of the menstrual cycle, such as the symptomatic luteal phase.
Dr. Sibel Nayman will present findings from ambulatory assessment studies on trait and state emotion regulation in PMDD, and will explore how cycle-phase-sensitive, personalized interventions could improve therapeutic outcomes.
Participants will gain a deeper understanding of:
· The role of cognitive emotion regulation in PMDD symptom manifestation and variability across and between menstrual cycles.
· Why conventional psychotherapy may fall short for patients with PMDD, particularly when targeting stable traits.
· Practical considerations for adapting psychotherapy to align with the dynamic symptom nature of PMDD - including how these insights may be applied to approaches to other mental disorders with premenstrual symptom exacerbation, such as Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
