Emotional Instability and Detachment in Teens

Q: Emotional Instability and Detachment in Teens

Hello, Xiao Yue： Past life experiences and interactions with parents can influence one's emotions at certain moments. <br>If one can understand the origins of their emotions, it becomes easier to find ways to adjust them. <br>However, sometimes when reflecting on events that happ

Emotional issues and apathy problems?

Hello, I am a 16-year-old high school girl.
My mother had depression when I was younger.
There was an incident when I did something wrong, and she cut her hair with scissors in front of me.
This happened when I was in the first grade of elementary school.
As I grew older, especially starting from middle school, my mother's emotions have been very unstable.
When I make mistakes, her reactions have led to my own emotional instability, with extreme highs and lows.
I am not sure if my mother's behavior is the cause of my situation.

When I am happy, I can laugh uncontrollably, but when I am sad, I cry, and halfway through, I don't even know why I'm crying.
Sometimes I even end up laughing while crying, which makes me feel like I'm going crazy.
When I get angry, I can become very frantic, screaming, crying intensely, and even pinching my own skin with my nails.
There are times when I feel like harming those around me, regardless of who they are, but I haven't acted on it because I still have some rational control.

I feel like I have become a very indifferent person over time.
To me, it seems that if there were no laws, it wouldn't matter if I killed someone.
If my parents died, I think my life would only change in practical ways, but emotionally, it wouldn't mean much to me.

I would like to ask if, given the above situation, it is advisable for me to seek medical help?

Xiao Yue, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/07/04

Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry

Hello, Xiao Yue: Past life experiences and interactions with parents can influence one's emotions at certain moments.
If one can understand the origins of their emotions, it becomes easier to find ways to adjust them.
However, sometimes when reflecting on events that happen to oneself, there may be some subjectivity or blind spots.
Seeking medical help, psychological counseling, or therapy can assist you in sorting through your emotions with the help of professionals.
If you find it difficult to adjust on your own, seeking medical assistance should be beneficial.
Wishing you all the best.

Reply Date: 2017/07/04

More Info

Hello, thank you for reaching out and sharing your experiences. It sounds like you are going through a very challenging time, and I want to acknowledge the courage it takes to express these feelings. Based on what you've described, it seems that you are experiencing significant emotional instability, which can be distressing and confusing.

From your account, it appears that your emotional responses are intense and can swing from extreme happiness to deep sadness, sometimes within the same moment. This kind of emotional volatility can be indicative of several underlying issues, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, or even traits associated with borderline personality disorder. Given your family history of mental health issues, particularly your mother's struggles with depression, it is possible that you may be experiencing similar challenges.

The feelings of detachment and the thoughts about harming yourself or others are particularly concerning. While you mention that you have not acted on these impulses, the fact that they exist indicates a level of distress that should not be taken lightly. It’s important to recognize that these thoughts can be a signal that you need support and intervention.

Here are some key points to consider regarding your situation:
1. Seek Professional Help: It is highly advisable to consult with a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. They can provide a safe space for you to explore your feelings and help you develop coping strategies. Therapy can be particularly beneficial in understanding the root causes of your emotional instability and in learning how to manage your emotions more effectively.

2. Family Dynamics: The emotional environment you grew up in, especially with a parent who has struggled with mental health, can have a profound impact on your own emotional development. It’s not uncommon for children of parents with mental health issues to experience similar challenges. Understanding this dynamic can be an important part of your healing process.

3. Coping Strategies: While waiting for professional help, there are some strategies you can try to manage your emotions. These include:
- Mindfulness and Meditation: Practicing mindfulness can help you become more aware of your emotions without being overwhelmed by them. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can be beneficial.

- Journaling: Writing down your thoughts and feelings can provide an outlet for your emotions and help you process what you are experiencing.

- Physical Activity: Engaging in regular physical exercise can help reduce stress and improve your mood. Activities like running, dancing, or even walking can be effective.

- Creative Expression: Sometimes, expressing yourself through art, music, or drama can provide a healthy outlet for your emotions.

4. Support System: It’s important to have a support system in place. This could be friends, family members, or even support groups where you can share your experiences and feelings without judgment.
5. Education on Mental Health: Learning more about mental health can empower you to understand your feelings better. There are many resources available, including books, websites, and online forums that discuss emotional health and coping mechanisms.

In conclusion, your emotional experiences are valid, and seeking help is a strong and positive step forward. You deserve support and guidance to navigate these feelings. Please consider reaching out to a mental health professional who can help you work through these challenges and develop healthier coping strategies. Remember, you are not alone in this, and there is hope for a brighter future.

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