“I don’t feel feminine because I have no period, my hair is falling out and I basically have a beard that I can’t seem to control”
“I don’t ever have energy and I am judged for being lazy so I just push myself”
“I avoid going out to restaurants with my friends because I can’t even eat anything, so why bother?”
“I am in a loving relationship but, I am scared to take the next step because of my fears around infertility”
These are just a few statements from cysters within the PCOS community which emphasises the clear fact that PCOS can be mentally overwhelming.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, which provides us with a chance to draw awareness on the often overlooked link between PCOS and mental health.
Contrary to common opinion, PCOS is not just a physical condition, it also has a significant influence on a woman's mental and emotional well-being.
According to research, 41% of women with PCOS suffer from anxiety, while 36% suffer from depression. A considerable majority of women with PCOS also struggle with binge eating. Understanding the relationship between PCOS and mental health is therefore of great importance so that we are able to access the necessary support, if need be.
While, several factors contribute towards the mental health issues that woman with PCOS face, it is clear that the great number of physical symptoms that we deal with on a daily basis is the most overwhelming part.
From excessive facial hairs to irregular cycles and acne, weight gain and the lack of energy, it is no wonder why we have such high rates of depression and anxiety. The continual burden of these concerns invoke feelings of inadequacy, low self-esteem, and a skewed self-image.
Furthermore, the contradicting dietary advice found when it comes to PCOS management causes a lot of confusion and much of the “PCOS diets” found online offer very limited food choices. Couple these restrictive diets with the strong cravings experienced when you have PCOS and we are bound to stay within cycles of restriction and bingeing, resulting in a poor relationship with food.
Many women with PCOS also struggle with infertility. Uncertainty about fertility can generate tremendous worry and concern which can be emotionally draining and stressful.
While there are many reasons to feel sad and overwhelmed with PCOS, here are some actionable "to-do's" to enhance your emotional well-being:
- Seek help: Engage with registered professionals like psychologists and dietitians, to navigate the challenges that come with the diagnosis. Engage and educate your loved ones to help them understand what you are going through so that they may support you through your journey.
- Supplement correctly: Meloono products are research-backed and can help you naturally manage your symptoms. Inositol complex can help you decrease anxiety, cravings as well as enhance your energy levels and alleviate symptoms associated with depression.
- Prioritise sleep: Sleep is essential for mental well-being. Having a consistent sleep routine can help you feel more energetic. Creating a sleep routine may be helpful for those who struggle to fall sleep.
- Engage in movement: Exercise releases those “feel good hormones”. Find a form of movement that you enjoy and incorporate it into your daily routine.
- Nourish your body: Turn your attention away from restricted eating and towards feeding your body. Recognise that food is fuel and select nutrient-dense foods that promote hormonal balance and general wellness.
- Listen to your body: Recognise and respect your body's signals. Take pause and prioritise rest if you're exhausted. Set boundaries with the people in your life. Note if your body feels unhappy eating particular foods as your body may be communicating that you have a sensitivity.
The anxiety that we encounter should not be neglected or minimised. Let us make an effort to raise awareness and understanding for woman with PCOS and its associated mental health issues, to our healthcare practitioners, families and friends.
By doing so, we can enable more cysters to live happy lives and overcome the hidden fights they confront everyday.