Final answer:
The most common psychiatric illness associated with PMS and PMDD is major depression. This condition shares many symptoms with PMS/PMDD, such as mood swings and irritability, and requires careful diagnosis for effective treatment. Antidepressants are a common treatment to help mitigate mood-related symptoms in both conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most common psychiatric illness associated with Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is major depression. Major depression is characterized by a severely depressed mood lasting longer than two weeks, alongside symptoms such as a loss of enjoyment in activities previously enjoyed, changes in appetite and sleep schedules, difficulty concentrating, feelings of worthlessness, and self-destruction thoughts. It is important to distinguish PMS/PMDD related mood symptoms from an independent depression disorder, especially since both share similar features such as mood swings, irritability, and sadness.
Particularly in the case of PMDD, which is a more severe form of PMS, there is a significant overlap with major depressive disorder (MDD). It's estimated that a substantial number of women with PMDD also meet the criteria for MDD. For individuals with PMS or PMDD, mood disturbances can be debilitating, and it's essential to understand the connection with depression for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Treatments for these mood disturbances might include antidepressants, which help to balance neurotransmitters in the brain, often with a focus on serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). This form of medication can mitigate mood-related symptoms and is a common treatment approach for both PMDD and major depressive disorder. Addressing the severity and impact of PMS/PMDD symptoms is crucial, as they can impair daily functioning to a significant extent.