Struggling with Severe Anxiety: Finding Help for Mental Health Challenges

I cannot control my sudden severe anxiety?

Hello doctor, I have a memory that since kindergarten, I often get trapped in a world of my own creation, where the people and events within it affect my mood and state in reality.
I frequently struggle to concentrate, and as I grow older and learn more, the world becomes larger and increasingly difficult to escape from.
I experience insomnia, loss of appetite, binge eating, and sometimes I feel like I want to suffocate or harm myself.
At times, I stay in these stories for too long, making it hard to distinguish between reality and fiction, which leads me to often speak about things that don't exist.
Recently, I've been feeling very anxious at work, and I constantly have goosebumps throughout the day.
I feel dazed, emotionally low, cry, binge eat, and tremble with cold.
I often think that ending my life wouldn't be a problem.
My subconscious keeps telling me that the stories are real, making me want to stay inside them, but when I try to break free, I feel intense pain.
My heart and limbs feel uncontrollable, and I have thoughts of wanting to harm myself.
I have searched for some questions here but still cannot alleviate my inner pain.
After a long time of struggling, I haven't confided in my family.
They only know that I once made them feel I had tendencies toward depression, but I haven't sought medical help.
Recently, I feel increasingly out of control.
What should I do?

Nìmíng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/07/25

Dr. Zhong Mingxun reply Psychiatry

It is recommended that you seek a psychiatric evaluation as soon as possible to gain a deeper understanding of your mental and emotional state.
It is likely that you may need some medication assistance and psychotherapy.

Reply Date: 2016/07/25

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a very challenging and distressing time with your mental health. The feelings of anxiety, disconnection from reality, and thoughts of self-harm that you describe are serious and warrant immediate attention. It’s important to recognize that you are not alone in this struggle, and there are effective ways to seek help and support.

From what you've shared, it seems that your anxiety has been a long-standing issue, starting from a young age. This can often lead to a cycle where anxiety manifests in various ways, such as difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbances, changes in appetite, and even feelings of hopelessness or despair. The fact that you feel trapped in a world of your own creation, where you struggle to differentiate between reality and your internal narrative, indicates a significant level of distress that can be overwhelming.

The symptoms you describe, including severe anxiety, emotional numbness, and thoughts of self-harm, suggest that you may be dealing with a mental health condition that requires professional intervention. It's crucial to understand that these feelings are not a reflection of your worth or abilities; they are symptoms of a condition that can be treated.

Here are some steps you can take to seek help:
1. Reach Out for Professional Help: It is vital to talk to a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. They can provide a proper assessment and help you understand what you are experiencing. Therapy can offer you a safe space to express your feelings and learn coping strategies. If you are in immediate distress or have thoughts of harming yourself, please seek emergency help right away.

2. Talk to Someone You Trust: While it may feel difficult, sharing your feelings with a trusted friend or family member can be a significant first step. They may be able to support you in seeking professional help and provide emotional support during this tough time.

3. Practice Self-Care: Although it may seem challenging, try to engage in self-care activities that can help alleviate some of your anxiety. This could include mindfulness practices, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises, physical activity, or creative outlets like writing or art. These activities can help ground you and provide a sense of relief.

4. Limit Exposure to Stressors: If certain environments or situations exacerbate your anxiety, try to limit your exposure to them when possible. This might mean taking breaks from social media, avoiding certain conversations, or finding a quieter space when you feel overwhelmed.

5. Educate Yourself: Understanding anxiety and its effects can empower you. There are many resources available, including books, articles, and online forums, where you can learn more about what you’re experiencing and find strategies that others have found helpful.

6. Consider Medication: If your anxiety is severe and persistent, medication may be an option to discuss with a psychiatrist. Medications can help manage symptoms and make it easier for you to engage in therapy and other coping strategies.

7. Emergency Resources: If you ever feel like you might harm yourself or are in crisis, please contact emergency services or a crisis hotline in your area. They can provide immediate support and help you find the resources you need.

Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. You deserve support and care, and taking the first step to reach out can lead you toward healing and a better understanding of yourself. Your life is valuable, and there is hope for a brighter future.

Similar Q&A

Overcoming Anxiety: A Journey Through Mental Health Challenges

During middle school, I was aware that nothing serious would happen, yet I was very afraid to go to school. At 19, I worked part-time at a convenience store, but I had to quit because I couldn't control myself when faced with the morning rush of customers; everything in fron...

Dr. Qiu Junda reply Psychiatry
Hello. Since you have been seeing a psychiatrist for many years, you can ask your doctor during your appointment about what the specific issues are. The doctor should be able to clarify your concerns. Based on the text, it seems to fall under the category of anxiety symptoms. The...

Understanding Mental Health: Overcoming Social Anxiety and Academic Struggles

I'm sorry to hear that you're feeling this way. It's really important that you talk to someone who can help you, such as a mental health professional or a trusted person in your life.

Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry
Hello, many factors can affect cognitive abilities, including emotions, interests, and physical condition. Generally speaking, if you are experiencing significant distress, it is advisable to seek a face-to-face evaluation for a comprehensive assessment. A psychological evaluatio...

Overcoming Anxiety and Depression: Seeking Help for Mental Health Challenges

Hello, doctor. I sometimes experience anxiety and depression, which have affected my school, academics, and interpersonal relationships. A few months ago, I took an online depression assessment and found that my score was in the moderate to severe range. This has led to frequent ...

Dr. Li Guanying reply Psychiatry
Dear Sir/Madam, From your letter, it is evident that you are experiencing discomfort and distress. I recommend that you visit our outpatient clinic for an evaluation and testing to determine if there are any psychosomatic issues or related concerns. Our clinic is open Monday to ...

Overcoming Negative Thoughts and Anxiety: Understanding Mental Health Challenges

Thank you for taking the time to address my concerns! My background and current living environment are quite normal. However, I have been struggling with psychological issues: 1. Recently, I have experienced some minor physical ailments. Since I have never had these issues be...

Dr. Chen Wenyu reply Psychiatry
Hello, Fuwek: 1. During outpatient visits, many people purchase books about mental illnesses to better understand themselves, only to find that they resonate with what is described in the texts, which deepens their feelings of unease. In reality, even psychiatric textbooks can ...