Mental Exhaustion: When to Seek Help for Hallucinations

Q: Mental Exhaustion: When to Seek Help for Hallucinations

Hello： It is unclear what the initial diagnosis was when you were ill and taking medication. <br>If you are experiencing persistent auditory hallucinations, it may indicate a more serious mental disorder that needs to be clarified. <br>If the original hospital (is it 818?) is too

Physical and mental fatigue?

Hello doctor, when I was 16 years old, I experienced a traumatic event.
I would wake up at night feeling scared.
Later, during my military service, I had a minor conflict with a fellow soldier, and during training, I constantly heard threats from him saying he wanted to kill me.
This led me to take medication, specifically sertraline (Zoloft), for about eight months.
After that, I became immune to the medication.
Six months later, I started working in a factory, but I couldn't keep up with the pace and was loudly criticized.
That night, I again heard someone threatening to kill me, and the next day, I left that factory.
After that, I worked as a security guard and in fieldwork for two years without any episodes.
However, when I worked as a real estate agent and had another argument, the symptoms returned.
I've been experiencing auditory hallucinations for nearly a year now.
Since leaving the military, I haven't taken any medication.
Should I go back to see a doctor and consider medication again?

Mr. C, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/20

Dr. Qiu Junda reply Psychiatry

Hello: It is unclear what the initial diagnosis was when you were ill and taking medication.
If you are experiencing persistent auditory hallucinations, it may indicate a more serious mental disorder that needs to be clarified.
If the original hospital (is it 818?) is too far, you can visit a nearby mental health clinic for evaluation and treatment (including medication) to improve your condition as soon as possible.

Reply Date: 2016/04/20

More Info

It sounds like you have been experiencing a significant amount of distress related to auditory hallucinations and other mental health challenges for quite some time. Your history of being bullied, experiencing conflicts during military service, and facing stressful situations in various jobs seems to have contributed to your current mental state. The fact that you have had episodes of hearing threatening voices, particularly in response to stress or conflict, suggests that you may be dealing with a serious mental health issue that requires professional intervention.

Hallucinations, especially auditory ones, can be a symptom of various mental health disorders, including schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and severe anxiety or mood disorders. These experiences can be incredibly frightening and isolating, leading to increased anxiety and avoidance behaviors, as you have described in your work experiences. The fact that you have had periods of stability, such as during your time as a security guard, indicates that your symptoms may be triggered by specific stressors or environments.

Given your history and the persistence of your symptoms, it is crucial to seek help from a mental health professional. Here are some reasons why returning to a psychiatrist or psychologist is important:
1. Assessment and Diagnosis: A mental health professional can conduct a thorough assessment to determine the underlying causes of your hallucinations and other symptoms. This may involve discussing your history, current experiences, and any other mental health issues you may be facing.

2. Medication Management: Since you mentioned previously taking medication like sertraline (Zoloft), it may be beneficial to explore medication options again. Antipsychotic medications can be effective in managing hallucinations and may help stabilize your mood. It's important to work closely with a psychiatrist to find the right medication and dosage for your needs.

3. Therapeutic Support: In addition to medication, therapy can provide you with coping strategies to manage stress and anxiety. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is particularly effective for individuals experiencing hallucinations, as it can help you challenge and reframe negative thoughts and beliefs associated with your experiences.

4. Crisis Management: If your hallucinations become more intense or if you start to feel unsafe, having a mental health professional to turn to can be vital. They can help you develop a safety plan and provide immediate support if needed.

5. Building a Support System: Engaging with a therapist can also help you build a support system. They can guide you in communicating your experiences to friends or family members, which can alleviate feelings of isolation.

6. Long-term Management: Mental health conditions often require ongoing management. Regular check-ins with a mental health professional can help you monitor your symptoms and adjust your treatment plan as necessary.

In conclusion, it is essential to prioritize your mental health and seek professional help. The experiences you have described are serious and warrant attention from a qualified mental health provider. Remember, reaching out for help is a sign of strength, and you deserve support in navigating these challenges. Don't hesitate to contact a psychiatrist or psychologist to discuss your symptoms and explore treatment options. You are not alone in this journey, and there are resources available to help you regain control over your mental health and well-being.

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