For the third year, Gia Allemand Foundation (formerly NAPMDD) is seeking to attend the 2017 NAMI National Convention to represent the 5 million women living with PMDD. As a vast majority of women with PMDD are misdiagnosed with mental illness (specifically bipolar disorder). We are raising funds to exhibit at the 2017 NAMI National Convention and educate the mental health community on this debilitating disorder.
An estimated 8% of women of reproductive age suffer from a debilitating disorder called Premenstrual Dysphoria (also called Late Luteal Phase Disorder or PMDD). Symptoms include severe anxiety, hopelessness, depression, and suicidal ideation. An estimated 15% of sufferers will commit an act of suicide in their lifetime. While progress is being made, there is currently no known cause or cure. Only until recently, PMDD has been recognized as a clinical disorder in the United States.
Gia Allemand Foundation is the only nonprofit in North America advocating better treatment options for women with Premenstrual Dysphoria. Through no-cost resources, peer support, and outreach women are better able to manage symptoms, reduce interpersonal conflicts, and eliminate self-harm. By exhibiting at the 2017 NAMI National Convention, we are able to work face to face with policy makers and mental health care providers on behalf of women with PMDD.
Millions of women all over the world suffer some degree of PMDD. Because of the inherent stigma or menstrual and premenstrual disorders, there is a long fight in this aspect of women's health. With focused research, women with PMDD can finally receive treatment options suited to their personal and reproductive goals. Suicide rates among women will see a decrease and quality of life will increase ten-fold.
