Emotional Distress: Signs, Symptoms, and Solutions

Emotional issues

Hello, doctor.
I've been experiencing some emotional issues lately, and I'm wondering if I might have some kind of mental illness.
In the past, I could always find positive solutions to any problem, but recently I've often felt the urge to hide away.
My mood fluctuates; sometimes I don't want to communicate with anyone and only wish to talk to those close to me.
While it's normal to want to retreat occasionally, when I become quiet or find myself alone, I start to wish I could disappear.
I notice that when people call me, I don't care at all, and even if they scold me later, it doesn't affect my mood.
I don't have a loss of appetite, insomnia, or thoughts of self-harm, which seems different from depression.
However, I often feel very low, unable to think positively about anything, and just want to disappear without wanting to communicate with anyone.
I only want to appear when I feel better, but if someone asks me to do something I don't want to do, I start to feel angry and want to hide.
I can spend an entire day in a state of emptiness, but this emotional state is already affecting my work.
Should I consider taking some calming medication or something similar? I've been reading self-help books and watching positive energy videos, but they haven't helped.

Sharon, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/02/16

Dr. Liao Zixian reply Psychiatry

Hello Sharon,
It sounds like you have been experiencing some emotional issues lately, which have already begun to affect your daily life and work.
Depression is a complex emotional state, and there are many different forms of depressive disorders.
Although the situations you mentioned may not reach the level of severe major depression, it is important to consider other possibilities, such as persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia) or seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

I recommend talking to close friends or family members about how you’re feeling and hearing their perspectives.
There are many ways to improve your mood, and it’s worth trying different approaches.
However, if these feelings persist for a long time, I suggest seeking help from a professional organization, such as a mental health center or a psychiatric outpatient clinic.
If medication is necessary, it should be prescribed after a thorough evaluation.

I wish you a speedy recovery to a better mood.

Dr.
Wang Haowei, Hualien Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare

Reply Date: 2017/02/16

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a significant amount of emotional distress, which can be quite overwhelming. Your feelings of wanting to hide away, fluctuating moods, and difficulty in maintaining communication with others are all important signs that should not be ignored. While you may not be experiencing classic symptoms of depression, such as changes in appetite or sleep disturbances, your emotional state is still concerning and warrants attention.

Emotional distress can manifest in various ways, and it often stems from a combination of psychological, biological, and environmental factors. The feelings you describe—wanting to disappear, feeling low, and having difficulty engaging with others—can be indicative of underlying issues such as anxiety, stress, or even a mild form of depression. It’s important to recognize that emotional health is just as crucial as physical health, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Here are some strategies to help you manage your emotional distress:
1. Seek Professional Help: Consulting with a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, can provide you with the support and guidance you need. They can help you understand your feelings better and develop coping strategies tailored to your situation. Therapy can be particularly beneficial, as it provides a safe space to explore your emotions and thoughts.

2. Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Engaging in mindfulness practices, such as meditation or deep-breathing exercises, can help ground you in the present moment and reduce feelings of anxiety. These techniques can also help you manage your emotional responses when you feel overwhelmed.

3. Physical Activity: Regular exercise is known to have a positive impact on mental health. It can help reduce stress, improve mood, and increase overall well-being. Even a short walk or some light stretching can make a difference.

4. Connect with Others: While you may feel like isolating yourself, maintaining connections with friends and family is important. Try to reach out to someone you trust and share what you’re going through. Sometimes, just talking about your feelings can provide relief.

5. Limit Exposure to Stressors: If certain situations or people trigger your emotional distress, it may be helpful to set boundaries. This could mean taking a break from social media, avoiding certain conversations, or limiting time spent with individuals who contribute to your stress.

6. Journaling: Writing down your thoughts and feelings can be a therapeutic way to process your emotions. It can help you identify patterns in your mood and provide insight into what triggers your feelings of distress.

7. Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Ensure you are eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and getting enough sleep. These factors can significantly influence your mood and overall mental health.

8. Consider Medication: If your emotional distress is severe and persistent, discussing medication options with a psychiatrist may be beneficial. Medications such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications can help stabilize mood and alleviate symptoms.

Regarding your question about whether you might have a mental illness, it’s essential to remember that only a qualified mental health professional can provide a diagnosis. Your symptoms, while concerning, could be part of a broader emotional response to stress or anxiety rather than a specific mental illness.

Lastly, it’s important to know that mental health services are confidential, and your privacy will be respected. If you decide to seek help, you can feel secure that your information will be kept confidential.

In conclusion, your feelings are valid, and it’s crucial to address them. Taking proactive steps to understand and manage your emotional distress can lead to significant improvements in your overall well-being. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help; you deserve support during this challenging time.

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