Mitigating Symptoms of Premenstrual Syndrome and Enhancing Quality of Life among School Students

Abstract

Objective: To assess the effects of group counseling in mitigating symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, and examine the quality of life in students based on group counselling sessions.

Study Design: Quasi-experimental pre–post study 
Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at the Government Higher Secondary School City, Dera Ghazi Khan, and Centre of Excellence Girls High School, Dera Ghazi Khan from March 2025 to June 2025.

Methods: This study investigated the connection between group counseling interventions and the enhancement of quality of life among a sample of 44 female students aged 13 to 16 years were registered. The data was collected using the Premenstrual Symptoms Screening Tool (PSST) and WHO Quality of Life-BREF (WHOQOL-BREF).

Results: The total mean score on the Premenstrual Symptoms Screening Tool (PSST) decreased significantly from 35.02 to 29.20 (p<0.001). Significant improvements were noted across all domains, including affective (p=0.001), behavioral (p<0.001), cognitive (p=0.001), somatic (p=0.001), and functional impairment (p<0.001). Specifically, severe interference with education decreased from 15.9% to 2.3%. The general quality of life score saw a substantial increase from 80.43 to 91.70 (p<0.001). A Pearson correlation analysis showing negative correlations was significantly reduced. This suggests the intervention effectively mitigated the negative effect of symptoms on daily functioning, helping students build better coping abilities and adaptability.

Conclusion: Group counseling intervention is effective in significantly reducing PMS symptoms across all observed domains, including affective, behavioral, cognitive, somatic, and functional impairment. Early intervention can encourage positive attitudes toward premenstrual syndrome and help manage symptoms before they escalate into more severe conditions.