Brianne has struggled with debilitating physical pain and cramps so bad she's laid up in bed three days a month since she was 13 and cannot function normally, accompanied by intense mood swings that often lead to incredibly dark thoughts. 

During this time of the month, Mark, a recovering co-dependent (Al-Anon), does his best to try and make things better, only to fail time and time again. In the episode, he reveals secrets about how he ties his self-worth to being Brianne's (and his mom's as a kid) knight in shining armor, providing for her in hopes of being loved. A recipe for disaster most of the time. 

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Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a severe, sometimes disabling extension of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Although PMS and PMDD both have physical and emotional symptoms, PMDD causes extreme mood shifts that can disrupt daily life and damage relationships.

What are the symptoms of PMDD?

• Anger or irritability.

• Anxiety and panic attacks.

• Depression and suicidal thoughts.

• Difficulty concentrating.

• Fatigue and low energy.

• Food cravings or binge eating.

• Headaches.

• Insomnia.

Virtually every woman knows when her period is coming. The bloating, the breast tenderness, the "munchies," and mood swings are known and typically endured because the symptoms are relatively mild for most women. For approximately 5% of women, though, this time is true agony.

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If you or anyone you know is struggling with addiction, depression, trauma, sexual abuse or feeling overwhelmed, we've compiled a list of resources at secretlifepodcast.com.

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To share your secret and be a guest on the show email [email protected]

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SECRET LIFE’S TOPICS INCLUDE addiction, recovery, mental health, alcoholism, drug addiction, sex addiction, love addiction, OCD, ADHD, dyslexia, eating disorders, debt & money issues, anorexia, depression, shoplifting,  molestation, sexual assault, trauma, relationships, self-love, friendships, community, secrets, self-care, courage, freedom, and happiness.

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Brianne's novel: SECRET LIFE OF A HOLLYWOOD SEX & LOVE ADDICT Check out the website: Secret Life Novel or buy on Amazon

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