Anxiety and Panic: Coping with Fear and Irritability

Q: Anxiety and Panic: Coping with Fear and Irritability

Hello, Ms. <br>EVE： Based on your description, it seems you are troubled by some negative emotions. <br>Due to the lack of more detailed information, I cannot determine the specific causes of these negative emotions. <br>Generally speaking, they may be related to one's physical c

Anxiety disorder? Irritability, negative thoughts?

Hello doctor, I don't know why I have a strong fear of my dad, to the point where I try to avoid him as much as possible.
I find it hard to make eye contact, and talking to him makes me very anxious.
I really can't remember what exactly makes me feel this fear deep down.
I also feel nervous talking to others, especially when it comes to discussing personal matters; I tend to overthink things in my mind for a long time, and I might not even say them out loud.
Writing or typing feels a bit easier for me.
When I'm outside, I don't let anyone see my negative emotions; I guess you could say I don't express them.
I always wear a smiling mask when I go out, which feels extremely fake.
At home, I often feel irritable and easily angered, sometimes using physical pain, like hitting the wall, to suppress my emotions.
Recently, it's been harder to keep my feelings in check, and I've been feeling a bit more volatile.
I've also been crying for no apparent reason; even though it's crying, it just feels like tears are flowing and there's something stuck in my throat, which is really sad.
I don't particularly enjoy sleeping either, as I wake up with a sore throat.
I often find myself thinking about wanting to get hurt, perhaps as a way to take a break.
I don't know; after all, my life has been lived according to my dad's arrangements.
For me, living doesn't seem to have any purpose, and I feel tired of it all.

Niming~, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/03/16

Dr. Dai Wanxiang reply Psychiatry

Hello, Ms.
EVE: Based on your description, it seems you are troubled by some negative emotions.
Due to the lack of more detailed information, I cannot determine the specific causes of these negative emotions.
Generally speaking, they may be related to one's physical constitution, upbringing, personal traits, and psychosocial stressors.
Negative emotions are a challenge that everyone faces, and each person has the capacity for self-healing to address these issues.
Support from family, friends, and mentors, as well as engaging in relaxation activities, leisure pursuits, exercise, and religious faith, can be beneficial.
If these feelings cannot be resolved, I recommend seeking professional assistance from a psychologist or a mental health specialist.
Wishing you well.

Reply Date: 2017/03/16

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a complex mix of anxiety, fear, and emotional distress, particularly in relation to your father and social interactions. Your feelings of fear and avoidance, especially regarding your father, suggest that there may be underlying issues that need to be addressed. It's not uncommon for individuals to feel anxious or fearful in certain familial relationships, especially if there has been a history of conflict, misunderstanding, or emotional neglect.

Your description of feeling nervous when speaking to others, particularly about personal matters, indicates social anxiety. This is characterized by an intense fear of being judged or scrutinized by others, which can lead to avoidance behaviors. The fact that you find it easier to express yourself through writing rather than speaking is also a common coping mechanism for those with social anxiety. Writing allows for more control over the message and can reduce the pressure of immediate social interaction.

The emotional turmoil you’re experiencing, including irritability and the urge to express your feelings through physical pain, is concerning. This behavior can be a way to cope with overwhelming emotions, but it is not a healthy or sustainable method. It’s important to find healthier outlets for your emotions, such as talking to someone you trust, engaging in physical activity, or practicing mindfulness and relaxation techniques.

Your feelings of sadness and the sensation of having a lump in your throat are also significant. These can be symptoms of emotional distress or anxiety, and they often manifest physically. The difficulty you have with sleep and waking up with a sore throat may be related to anxiety or stress, which can disrupt sleep patterns and lead to physical discomfort.

The thoughts of wanting to hurt yourself as a means of seeking rest or relief are particularly alarming. This indicates a need for immediate support. It’s crucial to talk to a mental health professional who can provide you with the necessary tools and strategies to cope with these feelings. Therapy can help you explore the root causes of your anxiety and fear, develop coping mechanisms, and work towards a healthier relationship with yourself and others.

In addition to seeking professional help, consider incorporating self-care practices into your daily routine. This could include:
1. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga can help reduce anxiety and improve emotional regulation.

2. Physical Activity: Regular exercise is known to boost mood and reduce anxiety levels. It can also serve as a healthy outlet for pent-up emotions.

3. Journaling: Writing down your thoughts and feelings can provide clarity and help you process your emotions in a safe space.

4. Social Support: Reach out to friends or family members who you feel comfortable with. Sharing your feelings can alleviate some of the burdens you carry.

5. Setting Boundaries: If interactions with your father are particularly distressing, it may be necessary to set boundaries to protect your emotional well-being.

6. Professional Help: As mentioned, seeking therapy can be incredibly beneficial. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is particularly effective for anxiety and can help you challenge and change negative thought patterns.

Remember, you are not alone in this, and there are people who want to help you navigate through these feelings. Taking the first step to seek help is a sign of strength, and it can lead to significant improvements in your emotional health and overall quality of life.

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