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Writer's picture: PCOS Vitality (c)PCOS Vitality (c)
The psychological impact of a PCOS cannot be underestimated
The psychological impact of a PCOS cannot be underestimated

A PCOS diagnosis can be described as a double edged sword. On one hand, you finally know for certain what is going on in your body. You have a condition and know that what you are experiencing is real and not some exaggeration, that it isn't a figment of your imagination. On the other hand, it can be frightening. Given that PCOS has no known cure and no dedicated treatments (only management), it can be a daunting diagnosis to receive. I mean at least with cancer there is a plan right?


To say PCOS is not just in your imagination is true, but it does get inside your head! This we know for sure as research has shown how depressive and anxiety symptoms are significantly increased. In fact, the international PCOS Guidelines, recently updated in 2023, recommend that all women and individuals with PCOS should be screened for anxiety and depression or other appropriate psychological assessment and given therapy as indicated.


Many people including healthcare professionals are unaware of the full scale of the mental health impact of PCOS. There is a need for greater awareness of the psychological features of PCOS that go beyond anxiety. For example, eating disorders are common in PCOS and some people find the symptoms have a negative impact on their body image and thus, their quality of life. Feeling like you are being dismissed by healthcare professionals can further compound some of these problems.


How can we contribute? Begin by taking every chance to discuss PCOS. Speak openly about it, and include conversations about mental health. If you need assistance, seek it without feeling ashamed. We all have mental health needs. It's important to empower ourselves while awaiting advancements in PCOS treatment. Empower yourself and communicate your decisions with your caregivers. Your voice is important, and this can also help enhance your mental health.


In the future, more integrated care models that emphasize the significance of mental health in PCOS treatment should be developed, as collaborative decision-making can be advantageous for PCOS.


(c) PCOS Vitality 2025

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Happy New Year
Happy New Year

Nope no need for a new you! Society's well-fed notion that you need to be a new person each New Year is a fad. Why on earth would you want to do that? Self-improve, by all means, but we are inherently good enough!


You may notice these bright sunny (sometimes snowy) January mornings bring a social media tsunami of guilt-tripping health messaging. You'd not be alone in feeling miserable about your non-instagrammable, non-aesthetic and, let's face it, typically banal lifestyle. But, life is not about appearances. You have many strengths and you can always continue to develop but be sure to set your goals on your own terms.


Guilt-tripping messaging is a type of health communication strategy that aims to change behaviour by inducing guilt if you don't make healthy choices. Examples include "every sugary drink is a step to a shorter life" or "if you don't exercise you're letting yourself down or your family" etc.


Some would argue that some people need hard truths in public health messaging but we ask if this is necessary in 2025? Research has shown that yes this type of message can work but only if it doesn't trigger resistance. Also, seemingly innocent language can make New Year even more challenging for some people particularly those with mental health challenges.


Guilting-tripping health messaging can be problematic as it;


  • can trigger feelings of shame

  • can increase anxiety

  • can induce feelings of inadequacy or powerlessness

  • can have an opposite effect leading to individuals shutting down completely


Let's instead focus on;


  • positive reinforcement like considering whether something is beneficial to our mood or energy levels

  • giving ourselves greater options and tools by educating ourselves about health & PCOS

  • allowing ourselves to grow and thrive in 2025!


So, consider limiting your consumption of negative media messages and maybe go buy the flowers!




Happy & healthy New Year everyone!


Maureen x

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Writer's picture: PCOS Vitality (c)PCOS Vitality (c)

When you are living with a chronic condition such as PCOS having a good support system can make the difference between feeling on your own and feeling empowered. Let's take a look.





PCOS Support Groups

What is a Support Group?

While Doctors can provide information on the medical aspects of PCOS and family members can sympathise it can be easier to talk to others who have PCOS. A support group is a medium for discussion and sharing of experiences related to living with PCOS.  A good support group allows you to connect with others and to share concerns with people who are going through the same things.  Being part of a support group can provide emotional support, reduce stress and improve coping with your condition.  Groups can make you feel less alone and by sharing coping tips with others you can learn more about PCOS.  In addition, some groups provide educational resources which may help with your Doctor visits by enabling you to know which questions to ask or which tests to request.  Groups are either face to face where you meet in person and others are online where you chat on social media or a more private forum.

Where to find a group?

There are many support groups on the internet and social media sites such as Facebook.  You can find them by searching in Google or by contacting any of the PCOS charities such as PCOS Challenge or ourselves at PCOS Vitality.  Chose a group that you are comfortable with. 

Things to consider when choosing a group.

1.     Privacy is one of the main things to consider when choosing a group.  Some of our experiences in PCOS are very personal and so you want a group that takes privacy seriously.  Ask questions before you join to make sure you are comfortable with the level of privacy provided.  Be careful what you share and realise that it is the internet that you are sharing it on – some groups permit people to send them sensitive or embarrassing questions by private message which can then be in the group anonymously.

2.     Consider if you want to be part of a group who aims to promote or sell goods to you.  Many people offer goods or services for PCOS but you may not want to be bombarded by advertising and promotions.  Check if the group is sponsored by commercial groups or professionals.  It may be something you chose to avoid. 

3.     You may be anxious/scared/lost/unsure at first about joining a group – or feel uncomfortable.  It is normal to be a little cautious and it is usually fine to lurk in groups to just learn from the discussions without contributing.

4.     Make sure the group is the right fit for you.  Pick a group that you find uplifting, not one that makes you worry more.  Remember too that we are all at different stages of our PCOS journeys so you may find that some groups don’t meet your current needs.  For example, a group’s main focus could be fertility and this may not be your current goal.

5.     It is important to consider that you may confront negative aspects of PCOS as you learn more about it in a group.  Remember though that not everyone with PCOS develops all the symptoms.  The topics covered may contain upsetting themes or things that you do not agree with.  It is advisable to ignore or scroll past some conversations.  Social media breaks can be useful if it becomes overwhelming.  Be prepared to block people who may cause you any upset.  It is important for you not to feel judged. 

6.     Accuracy of information on the internet is a concern, always check with your Doctor before starting any kind of treatments, supplements or exercise.  These groups are not providing medical advice, just sharing experiences. 

7.     Look for kindred spirits who can help you by sharing solutions and not adding to your problems.

 

Advantages of Support Groups

Disadvantages of Support Groups

 

Learn more about PCOS

Privacy may be a concern but you can always “lurk”(be in a group without commenting)

 

Gain social support

Information may not be evidenced based

 

Help yourself

Some groups are commercially based and advertise and promote goods or services

Help others which can be rewarding

 

 

Increase your confidence

You may encounter negative aspects of PCOS which may not be relevant to you

 

Become informed and able to advocate for yourself

Sometimes there are disagreements but you can scroll past these, block users or take a social media break

 

Connect with others so feel less alone

Some groups may not be relevant to your current life stage, so you may need to explore a few until you find the right one for you

Feel better emotionally

 

 

Find tips or tricks that may help with your PCOS symptoms

 

Key takeaway message

If you have a need for connection (some people may not), you may find a support group useful in coping with PCOS.  Remember that other people with PCOS are not health experts and they don’t know your family or medical history so all they can do is share about what works for them.  PCOS affects us all differently.  Despite some disadvantages, generally, support groups can be a very positive way of helping you cope better with PCOS when you find the right one.  Don’t forget, it is usually ok to “lurk” to learn more about PCOS too.  So, it really is worthwhile considering reaching out and getting some support from the PCOS community if you are struggling.   

© PCOS Vitality, 2022.

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