Navigating Mental Health Challenges in Pursuit of Career Goals

Unavoidable

Hello Dr.
Ding: I apologize for the interruption! I am only using this platform to communicate with you and fellow patients out of necessity.
Perhaps you are right! I did read your last reply, but I still don't understand what it means to achieve something simple and easy.
I can only handle basic plumbing and electrical repairs, as I graduated in electrical engineering.
My interests lie in appliance repair and agriculture! I cannot perform heavy labor and I am very afraid of heights! However, I truly do not know what to choose for vocational training to develop my expertise.
You are correct! My memory has significantly declined! I read the civic law section and forget it immediately! This makes it difficult for me to find a way to study.
I have already paid for my civil service exam fees, and I cannot get a refund; I can only move forward! However, after attending a few classes and then studying at home, it has been incredibly painful for me! If I am struggling this much before even starting my professional courses, I really don't know how I will manage if I take other classes! I have a chronic mental illness, and although I study diligently, it feels like there is a huge stone stuck in my heart, causing me immense pressure! I also feel dizzy.
Sometimes, I wake up in the middle of the night thinking about exams, and I immediately get up to study! It is very distressing! I don't know the reason for this.
Sometimes I sleep from 11 PM to 6 AM, while other times I wake up shortly after falling asleep to study.
Staying up late is impossible for me, and even so, it is extremely painful, even with medication! I truly feel miserable, but every time I finish a class, I feel fulfilled in life! Why do I want to take the civil service exam? Do you know? Of course, it is to fulfill my mother's last wish! If I pass, not only will I have a stable job, but I might also find a partner to marry and have a family...
fulfilling my mother's wishes! However, as my aunt said: I have a mental illness and cannot marry because it might be hereditary! If one day I really fear passing it on to the next generation! It was my mistake not to listen to advice, insisting on taking the exam and paying the fees...
I chose this path, so I must take responsibility! But right now, I truly feel very uncomfortable! I was scolded by my mother when she was alive: "At your age, still needing someone to support you is really shameful!" Perhaps my mother looked down on me because of this! Moreover, my previous girlfriends left not because I couldn't have children, but usually because I switched to jobs that were not suitable for me! My girlfriends left for that reason! It has always been like this! Am I really useless? This time, I really don't have enough time to finish studying; I wasted a lot of time when I was doing cleaning work, which has led to my current situation! I really want to study and pass the exam.
But there are only six months left! I am the type who doesn't shed tears until I see the coffin! Perhaps after failing, I will just look for a job and see who would take in someone like me with a mental illness, or I will end up scavenging and living a pitiful life! Forever struggling to make ends meet and shedding tears! Even my psychiatrist said I might not pass; it's not that simple! I am in this situation out of necessity! Could you please give me some advice?

Jason, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/06/16

Dr. Ding Shuyan reply Psychiatry

Hello, everyone has some dreams in their hearts, and whether they can be realized varies.
Some people lack confidence and, despite being capable, do not dare to pursue their goals.
Others set their sights too high, establishing goals that are too difficult for themselves, leading to frustration.
Are you suitable for taking civil service exams? Perhaps you could break this goal down into smaller steps to assess what abilities and qualifications are necessary to pass the exams.
Consider factors such as memory, comprehension, the time available for studying, and possibly the financial resources to attend tutoring or purchase study materials.
Most people would evaluate whether their memory and comprehension skills are sufficient to absorb the study materials and perform well on the exams.
You mentioned that you forget what you read, which is something to consider.
It may be that you haven't studied in a long time, and your mind feels sluggish.
If you develop a routine of studying a few hours each day and still find it challenging after some time, you might need to reconsider whether pursuing this path could lead to more effort than reward, making it quite difficult.
Not taking civil service exams does not mean you have to resort to scavenging.
This society is diverse, and there are more options than just two extremes.
You can pay attention to news and information from various industries.
You mentioned an interest in repairing appliances and farming, which are also viable directions to explore.
Many young people today are not engaged in these fields, so there should be plenty of opportunities for success! Wishing you all the best.
Sincerely, Dr.
Ding Shuo-Yan.

Reply Date: 2016/06/16

More Info

Navigating mental health challenges while pursuing career goals can be a daunting task, especially when compounded by the pressures of academic and professional expectations. Your concerns reflect a common struggle faced by many individuals dealing with mental health issues, particularly in high-stress environments. Here are some strategies and insights that may help you manage your situation more effectively.

Understanding Your Situation
First, it’s essential to acknowledge the impact of your mental health on your daily life and career aspirations. Chronic mental health conditions, such as schizophrenia or other mood disorders, can significantly affect cognitive functions, including memory, concentration, and emotional regulation. This can make studying and working feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to meet external expectations, such as those set by family or society.

Setting Realistic Goals
When you mention wanting to pursue public service as a way to honor your mother's wishes, it’s important to balance that desire with realistic expectations of your current capabilities. Consider breaking down your larger goal into smaller, more manageable steps. Instead of focusing solely on passing the public service exam, you might set goals such as:
1. Daily Study Goals: Aim to study for a set amount of time each day rather than trying to cover large amounts of material at once. This can help reduce feelings of being overwhelmed.

2. Skill Development: Since you have a background in electrical engineering and an interest in appliance repair, consider pursuing vocational training in those areas. This could provide a more immediate path to employment that aligns with your skills and interests.

3. Mental Health Management: Prioritize your mental health by incorporating self-care practices into your daily routine. This could include mindfulness exercises, regular physical activity, or engaging in hobbies that bring you joy.

Seeking Support
It’s crucial to have a support system in place. This could include:
- Mental Health Professionals: Regular sessions with a therapist or psychiatrist can provide you with coping strategies tailored to your specific needs. They can also help you manage medication effectively, which is vital for maintaining stability.

- Peer Support Groups: Connecting with others who face similar challenges can provide emotional support and practical advice. Many communities offer support groups for individuals with mental health issues.

- Vocational Rehabilitation Services: These services can assist you in finding suitable employment opportunities and provide training that aligns with your abilities and interests.

Managing Academic Pressure
Given your struggles with memory and concentration, it may be beneficial to explore different learning strategies:
- Active Learning Techniques: Engage with the material actively by summarizing what you read, teaching it to someone else, or applying it in practical scenarios.

- Accommodations: If you are enrolled in a program, inquire about accommodations for students with mental health conditions. This could include extended time for exams or access to additional resources.

- Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Incorporating mindfulness practices can help reduce anxiety and improve focus. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can be beneficial.

Embracing Your Journey
It’s important to recognize that everyone’s path is unique, and comparing yourself to others can lead to unnecessary stress. Embrace your journey, including the challenges you face. Remember that setbacks do not define your worth or potential.

Conclusion
In summary, while the pressures of pursuing career goals amidst mental health challenges can feel insurmountable, it’s crucial to approach your situation with compassion and patience. Set realistic goals, seek support, and prioritize your mental health. By taking small, manageable steps, you can work towards your aspirations while maintaining your well-being. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help, and you are not alone in this journey.

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