Are you currently dealing with a diagnosis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?
It is painful, or hard to manage around day to day life?
Research shows that Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects approximately 21% of women globally,* bringing not just physical issues but also significant mental hurdles. Studies show that PCOS can start as early as 11 years old, beginning a journey filled with hormonal imbalances and complicated symptoms.
One of the toughest parts of PCOS, and you may have experienced this yourself, is dealing with the mental challenges. Feelings of low mood or feeling ‘down’, anxiety and feeling unsure, or letting the symptoms cause you so much stress it can make you feel sick, and affects your entire life. In the midst of these challenges, there’s hope in the form of a Psychological treatment called Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). If you’ve never been to see a therapist, or heard of CBT, it can be a guiding light providing relief and empowerment for women like you, facing PCOS.
You’re Not Alone – The World is Fighting PCOS With You.
Women with PCOS are three times more likely to experience symptoms of depression and five times more prone to anxiety compared to those without the condition.** These numbers highlight the urgent need for effective interventions to address the impact mentally.
Diagnosing and treating PCOS can be a complex journey, often starting in the 20 to 30-year-old age range when fertility concerns arise. As you may have experienced, there are various symptoms to learn to cope with that can affect your body and daily functioning, including irregular menstrual cycles, infertility, excess body hair, and mood swings. These symptoms can really take their toll. You may feel like it’s affecting you so much that it lowers your quality of life, chips away at your self-esteem, and intensifies feelings of anxiety and depression.
My Professional Insight
As a therapist with expertise and a genuine interest in supporting women’s health and those living with PCOS, I’ve witnessed firsthand the toll this condition takes on your mental well-being. Managing PCOS symptoms can feel like an emotional rollercoaster, leaving you feeling overwhelmed and powerless. However, therapy offers a lifeline amidst the storm. Through evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), women like yourself can acquire essential tools to manage stress, challenge negative thoughts, and build resilience. You will be able to not only get through each day, but thrive and feel empowered. Together, I’d love to support you in navigating the challenges of PCOS and teach you to cultivate empowerment and self-compassion.
Top Tips To Manage PCOS At Home
Living with PCOS can present unique challenges, there are practical steps you can take at home to support your mental and emotional health:
- Prioritise Self-Care – Engage in activities that make you feel good and nourish your overall well-being. E.g. take a warm bath, go for a walk-in nature, indulge in a hobby you enjoy.
- Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation – 30 minutes of yoga, meditation, or breathwork each day can improve both your physical and mental well-being. These practices are known to reduce stress levels, promote relaxation, and alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.
- Seek Support from Those Close to You – Reach out to a trusted friend or family member for emotional support and encouragement. Sometimes, simply talking about your feelings with someone you trust can provide immense relief.
- Join Online Communities for Women with PCOS – Connect with other women who are also navigating the challenges of PCOS by joining online support groups or communities. Sharing experiences and advice with others who understand what you’re going through can be incredibly validating and empowering.
- Take Time to Remember Your Worth – Remind yourself that you are deserving of compassion, understanding, and support as you navigate the journey of living with PCOS. Be kind to yourself and practice self-compassion, especially during difficult times.
PCOS can be difficult to navigate alone. If you ever feel overwhelmed or just need someone to lean on, remember that seeking support from a therapist can truly make a difference. At Creating Change Psychology, we understand the unique challenges that women with PCOS face, and we’re here to offer you a compassionate hand through it all. You’re not alone in this journey. Take that brave step toward a brighter, more fulfilling life – Reach Out on 02 8883 3185.
Written By Therapist Karen Smith – Creating Change Psychology – Sydney
*Deswal et al., 2020
**Simon et al., 2023
