Why PMS and PMDD Hit Harder When You're Neurodivergent | Lily Rose Winter

Content note: This episode contains an open discussion of suicidal ideation as a symptom of PMDD. If you're struggling, the Samaritans are available 24/7 on 116 123 visit evelynhealth.com for guidance and advice join the Evelyn Whatsapp Community for PMDD-specific community support: https://chat.whatsapp.com/L40QNzo4Ew9... What does it really look like to live with PMDD, autism, and ADHD - all at once? Ellisha sits down with PMDD advocate and content creator Lily Rose Winter for one of the most honest conversations the Hormonal Hotline has had yet. Lily shares her decade-long misdiagnosis journey, the science behind why neurodivergent women are more likely to experience severe PMDD, what suicidal ideation as a monthly symptom actually feels like, and why she chose to speak publicly about how a pregnancy changed the course of her condition. Raw, relatable, and genuinely important. What we cover What PMDD is - and why "really bad PMS" doesn't cut it as a description The research linking PMDD with ADHD and autism, and why oestrogen and dopamine drops hit harder for neurodivergent women Lily's misdiagnosis journey: depression, bipolar, a personality disorder - and eventually autism and ADHD Suicidal ideation as a monthly PMDD symptom, and how education changes your relationship with those thoughts How PMDD affects relationships and careers - and what Lily actually recommends if you want to break up with your partner every single month Treatment, trial and error, and what's worked (SSRIs, lifestyle changes, going sober) How to advocate for yourself at a GP appointment when you're not being taken seriously How a pregnancy changed Lily's PMDD - and why she decided to stop staying quiet about it The Monthlies: the free online PMDD support group Lily co-hosts with the PMDD Project Our sponsor: Evelyn Health Evelyn Health is dedicated to helping those struggling with PMS and PMDD through expert-led, science-backed supplements and functional foods. Having used them for over a year to manage my own hormonal health, I'm so proud to have them as a partner. Get 20% off your first order with code HOTLINE20 at evelynhealth.com Shop Evelyn Health - https://www.evelynhealth.com Connect with Lily Rose Winter Instagram: @lilyrosewinter -   / lilyrosewinter   Timestamps 00:01:42 — What is PMDD? 00:09:26 — The link between PMDD, ADHD, and autism 00:14:23 — PMDD and relationships: isolation, toxicity, and red flags 00:20:59 — Suicidal ideation as a monthly symptom 00:29:16 — Treatment options and what's actually helped 00:36:10 — Listener dilemmas 00:57:58 — How a pregnancy changed Lily's PMDD This podcast explores research and lived experience around women's health and chronic conditions. Our discussions aim to reflect current evidence while acknowledging that understanding in this field continues to evolve. The content is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalised medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Listeners experiencing significant or distressing symptoms should seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional. Subscribe and connect If this episode resonated with you, please leave a rating and hit follow — it means the world and helps more women find the Hormonal Hotline. Edited and produced by @the32collective the32collective.co