Emotional Instability: Signs and Solutions for Depression

It can easily get out of control?

Hello, I was diagnosed with depression at a clinic last year.
Later, for various reasons, I stopped taking my medication without consulting my doctor and did not return for follow-up appointments.
Since around March of this year, I have started experiencing depressive symptoms again (similar to what I experienced last year).
Initially, I only had depressive symptoms, but later I became irritable and prone to crying.
I often get very angry after just a few words with someone (to the point of throwing things).
My emotions can easily spiral out of control, and I have a history of self-harm tendencies.
In the past, when I was angry or sad, I would resort to self-harm, but recently I have felt the urge to hit things to release my frustration.
I also have some very troubling thoughts (for example, thoughts of wanting to harm someone).
When I get angry, I can be very loud and disruptive, and I often curse continuously.
After I lose my temper, I feel a lot of guilt...
I really don't know what to do, and I would like to understand if these symptoms are related to a specific disorder.

Ru, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/08/22

Dr. Zhang Fangrong reply Psychiatry

Dear Sir/Madam,
From your letter, I can sense your emotions and distress due to the changes you are experiencing.
You have been feeling emotionally unstable, easily angered, crying frequently, and even exhibiting self-harming behaviors and negative thoughts.
I believe these issues are significantly impacting your emotional well-being and daily life.
Moreover, these changes are completely different from your usual self, which indicates that we should pay close attention to this transformation.
It may be beneficial to talk with close family members or friends, seek support from your school counselor, or even consider an evaluation and treatment from a mental health professional or psychiatrist.
As the saying goes, "prevention is better than cure." I hope you are ready to face and address these challenges together.
I believe and hope that tomorrow will be better.
Wishing you peace and joy,
Dr.
Chang Fang-Jung, Psychiatrist

Reply Date: 2017/08/22

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a significant amount of emotional turmoil, which can be quite distressing. Based on your description, it seems that you are dealing with symptoms that are characteristic of depression, as well as possible anger management issues. It’s important to understand that these feelings and behaviors can be interconnected and may stem from underlying mental health conditions.

Understanding Depression and Emotional Instability
Depression is a complex mental health disorder that can manifest in various ways, including persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, and difficulty concentrating. However, it can also lead to emotional instability, which includes sudden mood swings, irritability, and difficulty managing anger. The symptoms you describe—such as feeling easily angered, crying frequently, and having thoughts of self-harm or harming others—are concerning and indicate that you may need professional support.

The Importance of Seeking Help
Given that you were previously diagnosed with depression and have experienced a resurgence of symptoms, it is crucial to seek help from a mental health professional. Stopping medication without consulting your doctor can lead to a relapse of symptoms, as you have experienced. A mental health professional can provide a proper assessment and determine whether you are experiencing a recurrence of depression or if there are other factors at play, such as anxiety or a personality disorder.

Coping Strategies and Treatment Options
While waiting for professional help, there are some strategies you can employ to manage your emotions:
1. Journaling: Writing down your thoughts and feelings can help you process your emotions and identify triggers for your anger and sadness.

2. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help calm your mind and reduce emotional reactivity.

3. Physical Activity: Engaging in regular exercise can improve your mood and reduce feelings of anger and frustration. Even a short walk can be beneficial.

4. Creative Outlets: Channeling your emotions into art, music, or another creative pursuit can provide a constructive way to express what you are feeling.

5. Support System: Reach out to friends or family members who you trust. Sharing your feelings with someone who listens can alleviate some of the burdens you are carrying.

6. Avoid Substance Use: Alcohol and drugs can exacerbate emotional instability and should be avoided.

Professional Treatment
When you see a mental health professional, they may recommend a combination of therapy and medication. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is particularly effective for depression and can help you develop coping strategies for managing anger and emotional instability. Medication, such as antidepressants, may also be prescribed to help stabilize your mood.

Conclusion
Your symptoms are serious, and it is essential to take them seriously. The feelings of anger, sadness, and the urge to self-harm or harm others indicate that you need support. Please consider reaching out to a mental health professional as soon as possible. They can provide you with the tools and support necessary to navigate these challenging emotions and help you find a path toward healing. Remember, you are not alone in this, and there is help available.

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