Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder: The Welfare State: Recommendations for Reform (Interim Report)

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Abstract

Our study
This study explored the experiences of people with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) who applied for a social security benefit in the United Kingdom e.g. Adult Disability Payment (ADP) or Personal Independence Payment (PIP). Insight was also gathered from several professional stakeholders with experience of the welfare benefits system.

Why was this research needed?
PMDD is a severe hormone-based mood disorder. It causes debilitating symptoms in the latter half of the menstrual cycle. It affects 1 in 20 women and people who menstruate. The majority of people with PMDD have suicidal thoughts, 1 in 2 self-harm and 1 in 3 attempt suicide. PMDD impacts on all aspects of life. Some people with PMDD need support for daily living.

What did we do?
We delivered four focus groups:

(1) Three of the focus groups included people with PMDD. In total we gathered insight form 17 people. We asked them to describe their experience of applying for support.

(2) One focus group included three professional stakeholders. We asked them to describe their experience of supporting people through the application process.

What did we find?
Our interim analysis has identified four key findings: These are:

1. A lack of trauma-informed practice

2. Inconsistent assessment and decision outcomes

3. Difficulty evidencing a fluctuating condition

4. Lack (or unaware) of support for the application process

Interim recommendations

1. Align all processes with trauma informed practice

2. Refine eligibility criteria for fairer assessment of mental health related symptoms

3. Improve training of fluctuating conditions for health care practitioners and case managers

4. Improve promotion of support services available for applicants
Original languageEnglish
Place of PublicationPaisley
PublisherUniversity of the West of Scotland
Number of pages15
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 13 Jan 2025

Keywords

  • PMDD
  • welfare state
  • fluctuating conditions
  • socio-legal

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