Overcoming Emotional Instability: A Journey Through Depression and Therapy

Q: Overcoming Emotional Instability: A Journey Through Depression and Therapy

Hello： Whether it is medication therapy or psychotherapy, patience is essential, and it takes consistent treatment over time to see improvement. <br>Many past negative events may become intertwined when you are feeling down, making it difficult to see clearly or resolve emotional

Emotional instability

I am a patient with depression, and I know that I am very stubborn.
Whenever it's time to take my medication, I tend to hide it.
Since my onset of illness in March, I seem unable to accept this part of myself.
Even when the doctor suggested hospitalization, I chose to avoid it, and I also avoided the social worker's concern.
Over the past month, I have attempted therapy twice, and I have been looking forward to it helping me regain my positive thoughts.
Whenever something happens, I always find myself trapped in my own mind, unable to understand.
There are some assignments from my therapist that I hesitate to express because they reveal how immature my thoughts are.
For example, when it comes to doing household chores, I often find myself comparing with my siblings and start recalling unpleasant memories from my childhood, like borrowing toys from my cousin, which eventually led to a fight.
I ended up feeling angry and sad, not because I couldn't get the toy, but because I genuinely wanted to fit in with her.
Even though I have many immature thoughts, I can still come to understand certain things.
For instance, regarding household chores, after being pointed out, I realized that my parents don't love me any less; it's just that I'm 20 years old now, and one day my parents will grow old, and there are some things I need to learn to do.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/12/18

Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry

Hello: Whether it is medication therapy or psychotherapy, patience is essential, and it takes consistent treatment over time to see improvement.
Many past negative events may become intertwined when you are feeling down, making it difficult to see clearly or resolve emotional knots on your own.
In such cases, it is indeed necessary to seek help from professionals.
Accepting assistance and cooperating with treatment is, in fact, a form of courage.
It signifies facing problems, wanting to change, and striving for improvement.
Trust in the professionals, be patient, cooperate with the treatment, and believe that your distress can gradually improve.
Wishing you all the best.

Reply Date: 2016/12/18

More Info

Overcoming emotional instability, particularly in the context of depression, is a complex journey that requires both self-awareness and a willingness to engage with therapeutic processes. As someone who has been diagnosed with depression, it’s understandable to feel a sense of resistance towards treatment options, including medication and therapy. This resistance can stem from various factors, including fear of vulnerability, past experiences, or a deep-seated belief that one must handle their struggles alone.

Firstly, it’s important to acknowledge that depression often distorts our perception of reality. It can lead to feelings of hopelessness and helplessness, making it difficult to see a way forward. The thoughts that accompany depression can be overwhelmingly negative, leading to a cycle of self-criticism and avoidance. For instance, hiding medication or avoiding therapy sessions can be a form of self-protection, albeit one that ultimately hinders recovery. It’s crucial to recognize that these actions are common among individuals struggling with mental health issues and do not define your character or worth.

Engaging in therapy, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can be beneficial in addressing these negative thought patterns. CBT focuses on identifying and challenging distorted beliefs and replacing them with more balanced thoughts. It’s understandable to feel apprehensive about sharing certain thoughts or feelings in therapy, especially if they seem immature or irrational. However, therapists are trained to create a safe space where all feelings and thoughts can be explored without judgment. This exploration can lead to significant insights and personal growth.

Your reflections on childhood experiences and their impact on your current behavior are particularly insightful. It’s common for unresolved childhood issues to resurface in adulthood, influencing how we interact with others and perceive ourselves. By recognizing these patterns, you can begin to understand the roots of your emotional responses and work towards healthier coping mechanisms. For example, the feelings of competition with siblings or cousins over toys may reflect deeper issues of belonging and acceptance. Acknowledging these feelings is the first step towards healing.

Moreover, it’s essential to cultivate self-compassion during this journey. Depression can lead to harsh self-judgment, but treating yourself with kindness and understanding can facilitate recovery. Instead of viewing your struggles as failures, try to see them as part of the human experience. Everyone faces challenges, and it’s okay to seek help and support.

In addition to therapy, consider incorporating self-care practices into your daily routine. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep can significantly impact your mood and overall well-being. Engaging in activities that bring you joy, even in small doses, can also help counteract feelings of sadness and isolation. Whether it’s spending time in nature, pursuing a hobby, or connecting with supportive friends or family members, these activities can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Lastly, it’s crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare providers. If you feel that your current treatment plan isn’t working, don’t hesitate to discuss your concerns with your doctor or therapist. They can help adjust your treatment to better suit your needs, whether that involves medication changes, different therapeutic approaches, or additional support resources.

In conclusion, overcoming emotional instability and navigating through depression is a journey that requires patience, self-compassion, and active engagement with therapeutic processes. While it may feel daunting at times, remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, and with the right support, it is possible to find a path towards healing and emotional stability. Embrace the journey, and allow yourself the grace to grow and heal at your own pace.

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