Seeking Guidance for Mental Health Support as a Caregiver

Q: Seeking Guidance for Mental Health Support as a Caregiver

Hello： First, you can seek respite resources from friends, family, and government services to allow for regular breaks. <br>This should help with both your mood and physical health. <br>Secondly, if you are looking for counseling, there are several approaches： (1) Visit a hospita

Consultation recommendations inquiry?

Hello, Doctor: I am an important companion for someone with depression, and I often need to be there during critical moments to support and rescue them from suicidal thoughts.
Recently, I have noticed that I have become irritable, have trouble sleeping, and feel down for quite some time.
After these critical situations, I often find myself crying and feeling like I can’t hold on much longer.
I also realize that I occasionally share the same negative thought patterns as the person I’m supporting.
However, I am still able to maintain a normal social life and can recognize my own emotions.
While caring for them, I also want to help myself.
I feel that I need to assess my own situation and seek counseling to process my thoughts, as well as to understand how to support the other person more appropriately.
I would like to ask you, Doctor, whether I should consult with a psychosomatic medicine specialist, a psychiatrist, or if it would be more suitable to start with a mental health counseling clinic? (I am 20 years old, and I heard that only individuals under 18 can see a psychosomatic specialist; is this true?) Thank you.

Xiao Feng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/05/16

Dr. Tang Jiahong reply Psychiatry

Hello: First, you can seek respite resources from friends, family, and government services to allow for regular breaks.
This should help with both your mood and physical health.
Secondly, if you are looking for counseling, there are several approaches: (1) Visit a hospital or outpatient clinic to seek an evaluation from a psychiatrist or psychosomatic medicine specialist, who can then refer you for psychotherapy or counseling; (2) Go directly to a psychotherapy center for treatment or counseling.
Of course, during the physician's evaluation, you can also discuss medication options.
Thank you.
Wishing you a speedy recovery, Dr.
Tang Chia-Hung.

Reply Date: 2017/05/16

More Info

Hello,
First of all, I want to acknowledge the immense responsibility and emotional burden that comes with being a caregiver for someone with depression or suicidal tendencies. It’s commendable that you are seeking help not only for your loved one but also for yourself. Caregiving can be incredibly taxing, and it’s essential to prioritize your mental health as well.

From what you've described, it sounds like you are experiencing symptoms of caregiver burnout, which is common among those who support individuals with mental health issues. Feelings of irritability, insomnia, and sadness are all signs that you may be overwhelmed. It’s crucial to recognize these feelings and understand that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

In terms of where to seek help, you have a few options. Since you are 20 years old, you are eligible to seek treatment from both mental health professionals and psychiatrists. You can start with a mental health consultation, which may include a psychologist or a licensed counselor. They can provide you with coping strategies, emotional support, and tools to manage your feelings and stress. This could be a good starting point, especially if you are looking for someone to talk to about your experiences and feelings.

If you feel that your symptoms are more severe or if you are struggling with your mental health to the point where it affects your daily functioning, it may be beneficial to see a psychiatrist or a mental health specialist. They can assess your situation more thoroughly and may recommend therapy, medication, or a combination of both.
Regarding your question about the age limit for seeing a psychosomatic medicine specialist, it’s true that some clinics may have age restrictions, but many mental health services are available to adults of all ages. It’s best to check with local clinics or hospitals to see what services they offer for someone your age.

As you navigate this journey, here are some additional tips that may help you manage your situation:
1. Set Boundaries: It’s important to establish boundaries in your caregiving role. This means recognizing your limits and ensuring that you take time for yourself. It’s okay to step back when you need to recharge.

2. Practice Self-Care: Engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Whether it’s exercising, reading, or spending time with friends, make sure you dedicate time to your own well-being.

3. Seek Support: Consider joining a support group for caregivers. Sharing your experiences with others who understand can provide comfort and practical advice.

4. Educate Yourself: Understanding depression and its effects can help you feel more equipped to support your loved one. Knowledge can empower you and reduce feelings of helplessness.

5. Communicate Openly: Talk to your loved one about how you’re feeling. Open communication can help both of you understand each other better and may alleviate some of the emotional burden.

6. Professional Help: Don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help for yourself. Therapy can provide a safe space to explore your feelings and develop coping strategies.

Remember, you are not alone in this journey. Many caregivers face similar challenges, and it’s okay to seek help. Taking care of your mental health is just as important as supporting your loved one. By prioritizing your well-being, you will be in a better position to provide the care and support they need.

Take care, and I wish you the best on your journey toward healing and support.

Similar Q&A

Seeking Help for Mental Health Issues: Home Care Options Available

Hello... My mother seems to be experiencing issues related to memory loss and depression, but she believes she is fine and insists on not going to the hospital for treatment. Are there any doctors who make house calls or other organizations that can provide relevant assistance?

Dr. Chen Wenyu reply Psychiatry
Hello, Xiao Mei: You can visit a teaching hospital's psychiatry department or a specialized psychiatric hospital. They have "community psychiatry" services where you can inquire about assistance options. Some doctors may be willing to conduct home assessments. Than...

Coping with Stress: Supporting a Loved One with Mental Illness

I feel like I'm going crazy right now. I have suspected that I might have depression and have a history of self-harm, but now a family member has also developed a mental illness (they are receiving treatment, but their condition fluctuates). Their situation seems to be more ...

Dr. Ding Shuyan reply Psychiatry
Hello, when a family member is ill and you are also under stress, it can indeed feel overwhelming. Regarding medical matters, there is limited information available for discussion. My suggestion is to seek medical attention promptly and allow healthcare professionals to assist in...

How to Support Loved Ones Facing Depression and Memory Issues

Recently, many people around me have been showing signs of depression. My mother, who was originally a kindergarten teacher, is being transferred to a government agency where she will need to handle paperwork. She has been worried that she won't be able to adapt, and on top ...

Dr. Chen Mingzhe reply Psychiatry
Concern for Mom's "Big" Child: 1. Mom is experiencing emotional changes due to poor adjustment to work-related stress, leading to anxiety combined with mild depression. This has resulted in difficulties with concentration (decreased computer skills), memory impairm...

Caring for a Family Member with Mental Health Challenges: Tips and Guidance

Hello, I would like to inquire about my mother's condition. She has become somewhat superstitious after being involved with "Falun Gong" (she promotes its benefits, encourages others to join, and insists on practicing without interruption). Initially, I thought it ...

Dr. Duan Yongzhang reply Psychiatry
Based on your description, it is difficult to determine whether your relative has a mental illness. I recommend that you take her to a psychiatric outpatient clinic for an in-person evaluation by a physician, which is necessary to identify the issue and provide you with the best ...