Emmerdale fans have criticised producers over Cathy Hope's storyline following tonight's dramatic episode.
Cathy, who suffers from premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), has had to leave her GCSE exams due to not feeling well. Her health has now prompted concerned teachers and her parents to discuss options for her future.
One of the suggestions was that Cathy, who because of her condition often struggles with her mental health and has painful and heavy periods, should defer her exams for a year. Cathy was not happy and got even more upset when she realised her dad had spoken to the school without her knowledge.
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The argument escalated and Cathy ends up hitting her dad in the face. Immediately regretting her actions, she apologises. However, the episode ends with the teen packing her bags and running away.
Viewers have now criticised writers for how they have handled Cathy's storyline. Taking to Twitter, they voiced their complaints.
@Bexxiiboo1 commented: "I really feel so sorry for Cathy. I were a teen once many many moons ago and can understand how GCSEs, Menstrual cycles and PM whatever can be super stressful. I think she needs a hug."
@aaron_dingles complained: "They've done this story with Cathy but are doing nothing to educate the audience. All it's doing is make her more and more unlikeable and irritating."
@SarahRobron agreed, saying: "Most people still don’t know what she’s suffering from. They just think she’s being a brat because we just get endless scenes of her acting out and no proper explanations."
@susanwfd asked: "What is actually wrong with Cathy?"
And @My6Percent wondered: "What's up with Cathy? I don't understand..."
What is PMDD?
A small number of women may experience more severe symptoms of premenstrual syndrome known as premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Symptoms of PMDD are similar to PMS but are much more intense and can have a much greater negative impact on your daily activities and quality of life.
Symptoms can include:
- physical symptoms such as cramps, headaches and joint and muscle pain
- behavioural symptoms such as binge eating and problems sleeping
- mental and emotional symptoms, such as feeling very anxious, angry, depressed or, in some cases, even suicidal
As ever, we'll continue to bring you the big Emmerdale news about what is happening in the village and away from it. You can visit our Emmerdale homepage to find the latest gossip about the soap and its stars.
Emmerdale airs at 7.30pm on weeknights on ITV1.
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