Struggling with Mental Health: Seeking Help for Daily Challenges

Please help me?

Hello Dr.
Ding,
I am Jason.
I have reviewed the results of our previous consultations and have kept them in mind, although I sometimes forget! However, last Friday during my outpatient visit, I noticed that other patients had an appointment time of one hour, while I only had a few minutes.
Therefore, I had to seek your help, even though we have never met in person and I am consulting online.
1.
Here are my medications: Otsuka Anrifu Tablets 10 mg, one in the morning; Rifapentine 0.5 mg, half in the morning and half before bed; Sustained-release Fluoxetine Capsules 75 mg, one before bed; and Sustained-release Venlafaxine Tablets 150 mg, one in the morning.
2.
Last week, I was almost fired due to my irregular attendance (this has happened many times), and my supervisor called me in for a discussion! I explained to her that the real issue is my inability to wake up on time and my irregular schedule.
People like us, who have similar conditions, tend to have these issues, and I just can't manage it! But I am willing to try my best! From a news report I saw recently: those who are frequently late may have issues with certain parts of the brain and should consult a psychiatrist for medication...
I mentioned this problem to my doctor, but he only suggested using an alarm clock as a solution.
The appointment ended there.
If an alarm clock could solve the problem, I wouldn't be seeking help! Little did he know that even before my mental health issues, I struggled to get up with an alarm, and it has only worsened since I became ill!
I understand that all professions are not charitable, but to be honest, I dislike this job! I often exceed my working hours, and I only earn a mere four hours' worth of pay each day! I don't know where my next job will be or if I will be hired anywhere.
My sleep patterns are often inconsistent.
I drink about 3 liters of sugary green tea daily, which sometimes makes me feel very hyper, even with my medications.
I treat it like water, but I also drink plain water.
Sometimes I find it hard to concentrate on books or newspapers! I occasionally experience headaches and dizziness, feeling the anguish and helplessness akin to mental illness! I usually curse those who have wronged me daily, even though I know I shouldn't waste my energy on that, but I can't help it! They have harmed me deeply, and one of them lives across from my house.
So whenever I think about how they have hurt me in the past, I just keep cursing! What should I do?
Currently (since last year), I have participated in a savings insurance plan and have monthly expenses! Regardless of whether I pass the civil service exam next year, I must find a job to sustain myself.
I have an illness and an irregular schedule; who would want to hire me? Plus, I have no skills!

Jason, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/11

Dr. Ding Shuyan reply Psychiatry

Hello, I remember that you often stay busy late into the night, which might be why you find it hard to get up in the morning.
Have you considered setting a specific time to rest, putting aside your tasks to go to sleep, so that you can wake up to your alarm in the morning? Also, regardless of the job, punctuality is essential.
Even if you secure a public service position, it is not a guaranteed job; being late or absent can easily lead to termination.

I believe that a person's energy is limited, and getting angry and venting frustration also takes time and effort.
Regardless of how your adversaries currently affect you, you at least have a job now, which is something to cherish.
We can save some energy that would otherwise be spent on harboring resentment and focus on taking good care of your current job, as that is the most rewarding thing to do.
Everyone faces stress and encounters unpleasant people and situations that are endless to deal with; as old issues fade, new ones arise.

I live in the moment and make sure to use my mental energy wisely to tackle my current work.
If needed, your physician will still find time to discuss matters with you, and they understand you more deeply than I do.
The conversation we just had through typing could have been completed in less than five minutes in person, but typing it out may take us over an hour combined, which is not efficient.

Wishing you all the best,
Dr.
Ding Shuo-Yan

Reply Date: 2016/04/11

More Info

Hello Jason,
Thank you for reaching out and sharing your experiences. It sounds like you are facing a multitude of challenges that are significantly impacting your daily life and mental health. I want to acknowledge your courage in seeking help and expressing your feelings, which is an important step toward recovery.

From what you've described, it seems you are dealing with a combination of mental health issues, including possible depression and anxiety, which can manifest in difficulties with motivation, sleep disturbances, and feelings of frustration and helplessness. Your current medication regimen includes various antidepressants and anxiolytics, which can be beneficial, but they may take time to show their full effects. It’s also important to remember that medication alone may not resolve all your issues; a comprehensive approach that includes therapy and lifestyle changes can be very effective.

You mentioned struggling with waking up on time and maintaining a regular schedule. This is a common issue among individuals dealing with mental health challenges. It can be helpful to establish a consistent routine, even if it feels difficult at first. Here are some strategies that might assist you:
1. Sleep Hygiene: Focus on creating a calming bedtime routine. This could include activities such as reading, meditating, or taking a warm bath before bed. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends, to regulate your body’s internal clock.

2. Limit Stimulants: You mentioned consuming a significant amount of sugary drinks, which can lead to fluctuations in energy levels and mood. Consider reducing your intake of caffeine and sugar, especially in the hours leading up to bedtime. Opt for water or herbal teas instead.

3. Physical Activity: Incorporating regular physical activity into your routine can improve your mood and energy levels. Even a short daily walk can make a difference. Exercise releases endorphins, which can help alleviate feelings of depression and anxiety.

4. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga can help reduce anxiety and improve your overall mental well-being. These techniques can help you manage stress and cultivate a sense of calm.

5. Therapy: If you haven’t already, consider seeking therapy or counseling. A mental health professional can provide you with coping strategies tailored to your specific situation and help you work through your feelings of frustration and anger. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is particularly effective for addressing negative thought patterns and behaviors.

6. Support System: Surround yourself with supportive friends or family members who understand what you’re going through. Sharing your feelings with someone you trust can alleviate some of the burdens you carry.

7. Focus on Skills Development: Since you mentioned concerns about job prospects, consider exploring opportunities for skill development. There are many online courses available that can help you learn new skills at your own pace. This could enhance your employability and boost your confidence.

8. Professional Guidance: If your current psychiatrist is not addressing your concerns adequately, it may be worthwhile to seek a second opinion. A different perspective might provide you with new insights or treatment options.

Lastly, it’s crucial to be patient with yourself. Recovery takes time, and it’s okay to have setbacks along the way. Acknowledge your progress, no matter how small, and remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

If you ever feel overwhelmed or have thoughts of self-harm, please reach out for immediate help. There are hotlines and resources available that can provide support in times of crisis.

Take care of yourself, and I hope you find the support and strategies that work best for you.

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