Dreams, Reality, and Mental Health: Navigating Life's Challenges

Dreams, Reality, and Illness

Hello Dr.
Ding: Since your last response, I have followed your advice, and it has been quite effective.
I usually wake up naturally around 5, 6, or 7 AM, and sometimes I sleep until 9 AM at the latest! Most of the time, this is normal, but occasionally, I feel extremely sleepy in the morning, and I end up sleeping for almost a whole day! I don't understand why this happens.
The only reason I can think of is that I stayed up too late reading or doing other activities, which leads me to take a nap in the morning.
However, I usually limit this to just the morning hours! I know I shouldn't mention this online, but I'm unsure how much time my psychiatrist will give me to explain my situation.
Although I could schedule an earlier appointment, I feel that the effectiveness would be limited, and if this continues, I worry about the increasing healthcare costs! At this point, I feel I might be close to being fired from my current job because I have delayed my work again (previously due to illness or sleep schedule issues)! I was supposed to finish all my work from Monday to Friday, but today I am experiencing a strong sense of fatigue and reluctance to go to work.
I am sitting in front of the computer talking to you, doctor.
I stayed up late last night reading for the civil service exam and didn't even take a shower.
It seems that I can only focus on one thing at a time! I think if I continue working, I won't finish my studies, and if I don't finish studying, I won't pass the exam, so why should I waste a year studying and looking for a part-time job? Moreover, if I fail the civil service exam three times within a year, I will stop trying altogether! I do have a sense of desperation, but I also have this job to manage.
I need to deal with the recycling my dad collects (I've told him not to collect anymore, but he doesn't listen).
I also need to study (even though I often forget).
I truly cannot concentrate on one thing! Furthermore, the previous cleaning staff could complete 4.5 buildings in 4 hours, while I take about 6 to 7 hours, and I exceed the time limit three days a week no matter how hard I try! Whether I work very diligently or casually, my salary is only around 10,000 TWD! If I get fired, I will lose my income.
I don't know where to find balance for my monthly expenses.
I haven't even started tutoring for the civil service subjects.
Additionally, during middle school, I was severely bullied due to competition among classmates and the sabotage from enemies.
I struggled with many subjects, especially English.
Besides needing to catch up on general civil service subjects, I also need to improve my English! All of this requires money and time.
Dreams, reality, and illness! I don't know if I will see a bright future or a bleak one!? But what I do know, and have always known, is that I need to be brave! This is what a former girlfriend told me before and after our breakup! My mother also told me to be brave before she passed away! I have no idea what my ultimate outcome will be, especially with the civil service exam, where hard work doesn't guarantee success, and lack of effort will definitely lead to failure! I don't know what the final outcome will be: vocational training, falling into despair, or remaining forever unknown...

Jason, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/05/19

Dr. Ding Shuyan reply Psychiatry

Hello, regarding the matter of taking civil service exams, here are my thoughts.
Consider how you feel when preparing for exams and studying—do you find it smooth or are you struggling to memorize the material? As we reach our thirties, our memory is not as sharp as it was right after graduation.
Without the motivation and encouragement from tutoring or peers who are also preparing for exams, it can be quite challenging.
While I hope everyone has dreams, if achieving them seems difficult, wouldn't it be better to focus your energy on more attainable goals?
Currently, you may need to manage your time effectively to ensure you are not late for work or underperforming, which could lead to termination.
As I have suggested before, if issues with tardiness or inefficiency at work are not resolved, even if you succeed in passing the civil service exam, it would be in vain.
If your work situation stems from a lack of passion for your job, consider reflecting on your interests and strengths.
Think about whether there are jobs that align more closely with your interests; pursuing such paths can lead to greater happiness and a sense of accomplishment.

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

Reply Date: 2016/05/19

More Info

Navigating the complexities of mental health, particularly when intertwined with dreams, reality, and the pressures of life, can be an overwhelming experience. Your reflections reveal a deep struggle with anxiety, self-doubt, and the fear of failure, which are common themes in many individuals facing similar challenges. It’s commendable that you are seeking help and trying to understand your situation better.

From your description, it seems you are experiencing significant fatigue and a lack of motivation, which can be symptomatic of underlying mental health issues such as depression or anxiety disorders. The feeling of being unable to concentrate, coupled with the overwhelming pressure of academic and professional expectations, can create a vicious cycle of stress and exhaustion. This is particularly true when you feel that your efforts are not yielding the desired results, leading to feelings of hopelessness.

It’s important to recognize that mental health issues can manifest in various ways, including sleep disturbances, difficulty concentrating, and feelings of worthlessness. The fact that you sometimes sleep excessively could be a response to emotional exhaustion or a way for your mind to escape from stressors. Sleep is a critical component of mental health, and disruptions in sleep patterns can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and depression.

You mentioned the fear of being fired from your job due to your struggles, which adds another layer of stress. Job insecurity can significantly impact mental health, leading to increased anxiety and feelings of inadequacy. It’s crucial to address these feelings and seek support, whether through therapy or support groups, where you can share your experiences and learn coping strategies.

Your past experiences, particularly the bullying you faced in school, can have lasting effects on your self-esteem and mental health. Trauma can shape how we view ourselves and our capabilities, often leading to a persistent fear of failure or rejection. It’s essential to work through these past experiences, possibly with the help of a mental health professional, to begin healing and rebuilding your self-worth.

In terms of practical steps, consider the following:
1. Seek Professional Help: If you haven’t already, consider reaching out to a mental health professional who can provide a safe space for you to explore your feelings and develop coping strategies. Therapy can be incredibly beneficial in addressing anxiety, depression, and past trauma.

2. Establish a Routine: Creating a daily routine that includes time for work, study, and self-care can help provide structure to your day. Incorporate breaks and activities that you enjoy, as these can help alleviate stress.

3. Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Engaging in mindfulness practices, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises, can help reduce anxiety and improve your overall mental well-being. These techniques can also assist in managing racing thoughts that interfere with sleep.

4. Set Realistic Goals: Break down your academic and professional goals into smaller, manageable tasks. Celebrate small achievements to build confidence and motivation.

5. Connect with Supportive People: Surround yourself with individuals who understand your struggles and can provide encouragement. Whether friends, family, or support groups, having a support network is vital.

6. Limit Exposure to Stressors: If certain activities or environments increase your anxiety, try to limit your exposure to them. This might include reducing time spent on social media or avoiding negative influences.

7. Focus on Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself. Acknowledge that it’s okay to struggle and that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Remember, the journey to mental wellness is often not linear, and it’s okay to seek help along the way. You are not alone in this, and there are resources and people willing to support you through these challenges. Your courage to confront these issues is a significant first step toward finding clarity and peace in your life.

Similar Q&A

Excessive Dreaming and Its Impact on Mental Health: When to Seek Help

Hello doctor, I have been experiencing vivid dreams at night that lead to poor mental clarity during the day. I also sometimes wake up suddenly feeling like I'm falling. In my dreams, I even have experiences that connect with reality, such as dreaming that my alarm clock is ...

Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry
Hello: It is advisable to reflect on whether there have been any stressful events recently, or if there are any feelings of anxiety, fear, or worry regarding certain situations. Dreams are often related to recent psychological or physiological stress. You might try to identify th...

Facing Nightmares: Seeking Help for Mental Health Struggles

I am almost 50 years old and, like most people, I have been living under the pressures of work and family without giving it much thought. Recently, I never expected that the nightmares I had suppressed for two to three decades would return, and this time I feel even more terrifie...

Dr. Sun Xiaoru reply Psychiatry
Dear Mr. Lao Fang, From your description in the letter, it is clear that you are currently experiencing significant mental stress and emotional distress. I recommend that you seek a nearby psychiatrist for evaluation and assistance with your current situation. Based on your past...

Navigating Mental Health Challenges: Seeking Help and Understanding Symptoms

Hello, Doctor: I am about to receive my exam results, and I feel anxious about it. I have a rough idea that I won't be accepted, and currently, I am unemployed (I only want to work for 20,000 TWD; I don't want to take jobs that pay over 10,000 TWD, as I am not a part-ti...

Dr. Lin Yanhong reply Psychiatry
Hello: I apologize for the delay in responding to your question as I was on vacation for a week. After reading your description, I suspect you may be experiencing a syndrome of lacking life goals, which is a common issue among many young people today. The desire for success combi...

Coping with Life's Pressures: A Journey Through Mental Health Challenges

Hello, doctor: I have been receiving treatment in psychiatry for 20 years. My primary physician has diagnosed me with unspecified thought disorder. I hold a disability certificate (mild). I used to work as a cleaner. Since my unit was changed, my commute has lengthened, my workin...

Dr. Lin Mianzhang reply Psychiatry
Hello Mr. Kuo: It seems that you are a very ambitious person who plans for your future. Many patients actually experience prolonged sleep durations similar to yours; sometimes this is a symptom of the illness itself, and other times it may be a side effect of medication. Have you...