Should I Seek Help for My Mental Health Struggles?

Q: Should I Seek Help for My Mental Health Struggles?

Hello, Xiao Nian： Most psychiatrists are very friendly. <br>If you feel that these symptoms are troubling you, you can seek consultation. <br>We do not require a confirmed diagnosis to see a doctor; if you have concerns, you can register for an appointment for an evaluation. <br>

Should I seek medical attention for this?

Hello, doctor.
I have been considering seeking medical help for many years, but due to various factors, I do not want my family to know.
I am also not fully capable of making decisions on my own, which has prevented me from going.
In recent years, my condition has worsened; I break down and cry uncontrollably when I hear certain keywords, and during emotional peaks, I engage in self-harm by hitting walls.
I have suicidal thoughts that occur every few days.
Additionally, other bodily functions have started to change due to stress (I have visited various specialists, and they all said it is stress-related and advised me to relax).
I really want to seek treatment, but I am afraid that I might not actually be ill and that I am just overthinking, as my family and friends often say.
I genuinely don’t know what to do.
I have been experiencing insomnia for several years, and anxiety is a constant presence.
I can clearly feel that I am not the same person I used to be, but I do not have severe symptoms like hallucinations or uncontrollable self-harm (I know this is not good, so I choose to use methods like hitting to calm myself rather than using dangerous objects).
Should I see a doctor? Or is it really just that I am overthinking and it’s not that serious? I found an article online (http://lulicat.pixnet.net/blog/post/63483079-%E5%8E%BB%E6%89%BE%E5%BF%83%E7%90%86%E8%AB%AE%E8%A9%A2%EF%BC%8F%E7%9C%8B%E7%B2%BE%E7%A5%9E%E7%A7%91%E7%9A%84%E6%A8%99%E6%BA%96) that includes a section stating, "I can give you a simple criterion for determining whether you need to see a psychiatrist: Do you have difficulty understanding written text? Do you have speech difficulties? Can you go out and move around?" I do not have any of these issues; what I experience is constant anxiety, avoidance of reality and social interactions, frequent skipping of classes, distancing from classmates and friends, mild self-harm, long-term insomnia, and loss of appetite.
None of this seems as severe as what is mentioned in that article.
Can I really go see a psychiatrist? I am afraid that if I go, I might find out that I am not ill and waste resources, but I also feel that something is not quite right with me and hope the doctor can give me some advice.
Thank you.

Xiao Nian, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/04/17

Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry

Hello, Xiao Nian: Most psychiatrists are very friendly.
If you feel that these symptoms are troubling you, you can seek consultation.
We do not require a confirmed diagnosis to see a doctor; if you have concerns, you can register for an appointment for an evaluation.
It's similar to how some people who feel easily fatigued or have a poor appetite go to a general practitioner for a check-up.
If you have such concerns, you can feel comfortable seeking help.
Wishing you all the best.

Reply Date: 2017/04/17

More Info

It's commendable that you're reaching out to discuss your mental health struggles. The feelings and experiences you've described indicate that you are dealing with significant emotional distress, which is not uncommon, especially in today's fast-paced and often overwhelming world. Your concerns about whether to seek help are valid, and it's essential to approach this topic with care and understanding.

From what you've shared, it seems that your mental health has been deteriorating over the years, marked by episodes of intense emotional pain, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, and physical symptoms related to stress. These are serious indicators that suggest you may benefit from professional help. It's important to recognize that mental health issues can manifest in various ways, and the absence of severe symptoms like hallucinations or uncontrollable self-harm does not mean that your struggles are any less valid or deserving of attention.

The fact that you experience overwhelming emotions triggered by specific keywords, alongside self-harming behaviors and persistent anxiety, points to a need for support. Mental health professionals can provide a safe space for you to explore these feelings and develop coping strategies. They can also help you understand the underlying causes of your distress, which may not be immediately apparent to you.

It's understandable to fear the stigma associated with mental health treatment or to worry about being perceived as "overreacting." However, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Many people experience mental health challenges, and reaching out for support is a proactive step toward healing. Mental health professionals are trained to assess your situation comprehensively and provide appropriate interventions, whether that involves therapy, medication, or a combination of both.

You mentioned that you have been experiencing insomnia and a lack of appetite for several years, which can significantly impact your overall well-being. Chronic sleep disturbances and changes in appetite are often linked to anxiety and depression. Addressing these symptoms with a healthcare provider can lead to improvements in your quality of life.

In addition to seeking professional help, consider incorporating self-care practices into your routine. Activities such as mindfulness meditation, journaling, or engaging in creative outlets can help you process your emotions and reduce anxiety. Surrounding yourself with supportive friends or family members, even if you choose not to disclose everything you're feeling, can also provide a sense of connection and understanding.

If you're worried about confidentiality, it's important to know that mental health professionals are bound by strict confidentiality laws. Your privacy is protected, and they will not disclose your information without your consent, except in specific circumstances where there is a risk of harm to yourself or others.

In conclusion, I strongly encourage you to seek help from a mental health professional. Your experiences and feelings are significant, and you deserve support and guidance. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and there are resources available to help you navigate through these challenging times. Taking that first step to reach out for help can be transformative, leading you toward a path of healing and self-discovery.

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