Emotional Challenges and Seeking Mental Health Support

Q: Emotional Challenges and Seeking Mental Health Support

Hello： Emotions are related to past events, current environmental stressors, and one's coping abilities. <br>While we cannot change the past, we can alter our perspective on those events and their impact on us. <br>Although there have been struggles in the past, it is important t

Emotional and daily life issues?

Hello, doctor.
First of all, thank you very much for reading this article.
My parents divorced when I was in the second grade of elementary school.
According to my father, my personality changed significantly during that time, to the extent that even my homeroom teacher asked him to take me to see a psychologist.
I attended a few therapy sessions, and my condition improved somewhat.
After that, my interpersonal relationships at school were decent, but occasional conflicts with classmates sometimes made me tear up, and there was even one instance where I suddenly exploded in anger.
However, most of the time, my emotions were relatively stable, so my father did not consider seeking further psychological counseling or treatment (at that time, I didn't think about it either).

When I first entered junior high school, my relationships began to deteriorate, and I only had two or three close friends in class.
Emotionally, I experienced more fluctuations compared to elementary school; in addition to conflicts, there were times when I felt isolated.
I would sometimes tear up during discussions about family, especially topics related to my parents.
Due to the pressures from home, school, and peers during that period, I attempted self-harm, but none of those attempts were successful.
I also had thoughts of wanting to escape from life.
I once mentioned to my aunt that I wanted to seek psychological counseling, but it did not materialize.
There are times when I feel the urge to cry alone.
I feel that my emotions fluctuate quite a bit; sometimes, just a few words with family members can bring me to tears.
When I feel sad or anxious, I experience a tightness in my chest or a sensation of something stuck in my throat.
Additionally, I have a slight aversion to physical contact with others.

These issues have troubled me for quite a long time, and I don't know how to handle them.
Although I have very good friends, I am not good at expressing my own troubles to others; instead, I often find myself listening to their problems more.
Should I consider seeking psychological counseling or visiting a hospital for treatment? Regardless of how you respond, I am very grateful.

N, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/02/06

Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry

Hello: Emotions are related to past events, current environmental stressors, and one's coping abilities.
While we cannot change the past, we can alter our perspective on those events and their impact on us.
Although there have been struggles in the past, it is important to acknowledge the journey you've taken and recognize your considerable resilience.
For the current pressures you are facing, it is advisable to clarify and address them separately; some issues can be resolved or improved, which can help reduce stress.
Regarding your coping mechanisms, thoughts of self-harm often stem from feelings of emptiness or discomfort, seeking an outlet for those feelings.
However, a healthier outlet would be to redirect your focus towards positive experiences in life.
Psychological counseling or medical treatment should be beneficial for your situation.
Wishing you all the best.

Reply Date: 2017/02/06

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a significant amount of emotional distress, which has been ongoing for quite some time. Your feelings of sadness, anxiety, and the physical symptoms you describe—such as chest tightness and difficulty with emotional expression—are important indicators that you may benefit from professional mental health support.

From what you’ve shared, it seems that your emotional challenges began in childhood, particularly following your parents' divorce. This kind of early trauma can have lasting effects on emotional regulation and interpersonal relationships. The fact that you have experienced fluctuations in your mood, feelings of isolation, and even thoughts of self-harm suggests that you are dealing with complex emotional issues that could be better understood and managed with the help of a mental health professional.

Seeking therapy or counseling can be a crucial step in addressing these feelings. A trained therapist can provide a safe space for you to explore your emotions and experiences without judgment. They can help you develop coping strategies for managing anxiety and sadness, and they can assist you in processing your feelings about your family dynamics and social interactions. Therapy can also help you learn how to communicate your feelings more effectively, which may alleviate some of the emotional burden you carry.

You mentioned that you have a few close friends but find it difficult to share your own struggles with them. This is not uncommon; many people feel more comfortable listening to others rather than discussing their own issues. However, it’s important to remember that sharing your feelings with trusted friends can also be beneficial. They may provide support and understanding that can help you feel less isolated.

In terms of whether you should seek professional help, I would strongly encourage you to consider it. If you have access to a school counselor or mental health services, that could be a good starting point. They can provide you with an initial assessment and help you determine the best course of action. If you feel more comfortable, you could also look for a therapist outside of school. Many therapists offer a sliding scale for payment, making it more accessible.

Regarding your concerns about confidentiality, mental health professionals are bound by strict ethical guidelines to protect your privacy. This means that what you discuss in therapy is confidential, with a few exceptions related to safety. If you are ever in immediate danger or if there is a risk of harm to yourself or others, the therapist may need to take action to ensure safety.

In summary, your emotional challenges are significant and warrant attention. Seeking therapy could provide you with the tools and support you need to navigate your feelings and improve your overall mental health. Remember, reaching out for help is a sign of strength, and you deserve to feel better. You are not alone in this, and there are professionals who can help guide you through these difficult times.

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