Do I Have Other Mental Health Issues Besides Depression?

Do I have any other illnesses besides depression?

Since I visited the doctor a few months ago at the age of 24, the medication prescribed has not been effective, and now I've been switched to a different medication.
I find myself endlessly ruminating over minor issues, trapped in a highly negative state.
I am afraid to go out and need my parents to accompany me.
I have communicated with my family less than 50 sentences in a year and have no friends or classmates.
Although I have found interests, they only serve as distractions, and I feel worthless living this way.
I resort to using the computer, self-stimulation, and music for temporary relief, but I now find both the computer and music uninteresting.
Only after self-stimulation do I feel a slight sense of relief.
Previously, using the computer was like interacting in real life, with thousands of exchanges, but now I hesitate to communicate in both real life and online.
I have no friends online either.
After many attempts, I feel exhausted and reluctant to talk to anyone.
I told my doctor that I exhibit traits of borderline personality disorder, but he disagreed, stating that I am only 24 and still young.
I expressed my frustration, explaining that I felt the same way before turning 24 and have been avoiding these feelings for ten years.
I have been feeling this way for two days now.
Unfortunately, my personality has already formed into one that is weak, timid, lacking in confidence, and insecure.
I dislike being perceived as pretending or being pitied or blamed.
I also contacted a counseling hotline, and the counselor said I am normal and just overthinking, which everyone seems to say.
Am I not allowed to recognize my own condition or symptoms? Just because I can speak normally at times doesn’t mean I am fine.
I heavily rely on my parents and worry that others dislike me when I talk to them.
Sometimes I stutter, my mind goes blank, and I have negative, extreme thoughts that I cannot control.
When I talk to my parents, I get very angry, which leads me to not want to speak at all.
I don’t feel any special connection with my family; it’s just like any ordinary relationship.
I struggle to even call them by their titles like dad, brother, sister, or mom.
Do you think I still exhibit traits of emotional detachment and borderline personality disorder?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/10/06

Dr. Xiao Minghong reply Psychiatry

Dear Sir,
Based on your description, it seems that you have been experiencing difficult times for the past ten years, and recently there appears to be a tendency for things to worsen.
You no longer find joy in activities that once interested you, and you have many negative feelings about yourself.
Regarding your concerns, here are some responses:
1.
Antidepressant medications typically do not provide immediate effects; they usually take 2-3 weeks to gradually take effect.
If you feel that the treatment is not effective, you may want to consult your physician about your ongoing treatment plan.
2.
Borderline personality disorder and being a "marginal person" are two different situations.
To gain a clear understanding, it is usually necessary to know about your past development history, personality, family dynamics, interpersonal relationships, emotional state, and coping mechanisms.
If you have questions in this area, it is advisable to discuss them further with your physician.
Wishing you all the best!
Sincerely,
Dr.
Hsiao Ming-Hong

Reply Date: 2016/10/06

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a complex mix of emotional and psychological challenges that are affecting your daily life and overall well-being. From your description, it seems you are grappling with feelings of depression, anxiety, and possibly traits associated with borderline personality disorder (BPD). However, diagnosing mental health conditions requires a thorough evaluation by a qualified mental health professional, and it’s important to approach this with care and understanding.

Firstly, the symptoms you describe, such as excessive rumination, negative thought patterns, social withdrawal, and feelings of worthlessness, are often associated with depression. The fact that you feel unable to engage with others, rely heavily on your parents for support, and struggle to find joy in activities you once enjoyed, indicates that your mental health is significantly impacted. It is not uncommon for individuals with depression to feel disconnected from their interests and relationships, leading to a sense of isolation.

Your mention of having traits of borderline personality disorder is also noteworthy. BPD is characterized by intense emotional responses, fear of abandonment, unstable relationships, and difficulties with self-image. While your doctor may have indicated that you do not meet the criteria for BPD, it is essential to have an open dialogue with your healthcare provider about your concerns. If you feel that your symptoms align with BPD, it may be beneficial to seek a second opinion or consult a mental health professional who specializes in personality disorders.

The feelings of inadequacy and fear of judgment from others can contribute to social anxiety, making it challenging to engage in conversations or form connections. This can create a vicious cycle where the fear of negative evaluation leads to avoidance of social situations, further exacerbating feelings of loneliness and depression. It’s important to recognize that these feelings are valid and that seeking help is a courageous step toward healing.

In terms of coping strategies, it may be helpful to explore various therapeutic approaches. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is effective for addressing negative thought patterns and developing healthier coping mechanisms. Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), which is specifically designed for individuals with BPD, focuses on emotional regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, and mindfulness. Engaging in therapy can provide you with tools to manage your emotions and improve your relationships.

Additionally, consider incorporating self-care practices into your routine. Regular physical activity, mindfulness meditation, and creative outlets can help alleviate some symptoms of depression and anxiety. While it may feel challenging to engage in these activities, starting small and gradually increasing your involvement can lead to positive changes over time.

It’s also crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider about your medication and its effects. If you feel that your current treatment is not effective, discuss this with your doctor. They may need to adjust your medication or explore alternative treatment options.

Lastly, remember that you are not alone in this journey. Many people face similar struggles, and reaching out for support from friends, family, or support groups can be incredibly beneficial. Building a support network can help you feel less isolated and provide you with a sense of belonging.

In summary, while you may be experiencing symptoms that align with depression and possibly traits of BPD, a comprehensive evaluation by a mental health professional is essential for an accurate diagnosis. Engaging in therapy, practicing self-care, and maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider can help you navigate these challenges and work toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Similar Q&A

Do I Have a Mental Illness? Understanding My Emotional Struggles

Hello, Dr. Ding. I would like to describe my situation and ask if I might be ill. My life has been relatively smooth; I have a happy family, no trauma, no significant losses, no end to close relationships, and no experiences of bullying. However, I feel unwell. Since childhood, I...

Dr. Ding Shuyan reply Psychiatry
Hello, if you are experiencing emotional ups and downs, whether due to personality traits or bipolar disorder, it is advisable to consult a doctor. For some individuals, these emotional issues are more related to external stressors, while others, as you mentioned, may not be able...

Am I Experiencing Mental Health Issues? Understanding Your Symptoms

Hello Dr. Chen: For the past 1 to 2 years, I have been troubled by a problem where whenever I am alone, I find myself unconsciously fantasizing various scenarios, playing different roles, and having conversations with myself. These imagined scenarios continuously emerge in my min...

Dr. Chen Wenyu reply Psychiatry
Hello Mr. Lin: Individuals with lower self-confidence tend to be more prone to daydreaming, experience greater emotional fluctuations, and may even suffer from depression, with some contemplating suicide. Poor sleep and suicidal thoughts are concerning. I recommend that you seek ...

Understanding Emotional Turmoil: Signs of Possible Mental Health Issues

When I am feeling down, my mind is sometimes filled with negative energy, but when I am happy, I feel more joyful than anyone else. However, I sometimes experience insomnia late at night, and my emotions seem to be in turmoil, often leading to breakdowns where I cry over trivial ...

Dr. Qiu Junda reply Psychiatry
Hello. Regardless of whether it constitutes a condition such as depression, the text indeed indicates long-term negative emotions that are causing physical and mental distress. I recommend that you make time to visit a mental health clinic for counseling (you don't have to t...

Understanding Mental Health Struggles: Symptoms and Seeking Help

Currently, my condition involves long-term issues such as difficulty concentrating with my eyes, slight hearing loss, and an inability to focus mentally. I personally believe these problems stem from a mental issue, which has led to the eye and ear problems. The first day of thes...

Dr. Wang Chongren reply Psychiatry
Dear Mr. Hsiao-Cheng, I hope this message finds you well. In your letter, you mentioned several causes and consequences that have led to your current state of mental distress. Given that your difficulties with concentration, pessimistic thoughts, and depressive emotions have per...