Regular aerobic exercise appears to have a beneficial effect on premenstrual symptoms and some studies have shown it helpful for treating premenstrual syndrome (PMS). While exercise has not been studied as a specific treatment for premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), it seems quite reasonable to include it as part of a comprehensive treatment program. Exercise is the psychobehavioral treatment strategy that PMDD experts recommend most highly.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy involves 12 or so weekly sessions that deal with correcting dysfunctional negative thoughts and developing effective coping strategies. Several research studies have found this to be a promising treatment for PMS and, perhaps, for PMDD. The same can be said for coping skills training, which is really a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy. Some may find relaxation therapy helpful, especially when included as an aspect of cognitive-behavioral therapy. As a stand-alone treatment, relaxation therapy has not been well-studied.

There are many other psychobehavioral approaches that have been used to treat premenstrual syndrome (like reflexology, yoga, sleep regulation and meditation). These approaches have not been adequately studied as PMDD treatments, but some women who use them find them helpful.