Do I Really Need to See a Doctor for Mental Health Issues?

Do I need to see a doctor?

Hello, Doctor: I feel that I get anxious quite easily, my social situation is very poor, my emotions are unstable, I have a history of obsessive-compulsive disorder, I was diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome, I have a fear of vomiting, and I tend to have health anxiety.
Since going to the hospital requires time and money, and the psychologists referred by the hospital are also quite expensive, would it be possible to improve these conditions by having weekly counseling sessions at the school counseling office (which has licensed professionals, including a psychiatrist) without seeking medical treatment? Or would the effectiveness be limited? Thank you for taking the time to respond!

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/10/06

Dr. Wang Yazhen reply Psychiatry

Hello, based on your description, it is important to consider the tendency towards anxiety.
Currently, the most mainstream treatment for anxiety issues is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which can be combined with medication if necessary.
The available channels for psychological treatment include: first, public hospitals or psychiatric specialty hospitals that provide insured psychological therapy, which typically requires a referral from a physician and may involve a waiting period.
Since this is covered by health insurance, the financial burden is lighter; second, out-of-pocket psychological therapy provided by clinics with referrals to licensed psychologists or counseling centers.
You mentioned that you are currently receiving counseling; if you have any concerns, I recommend discussing them directly with your therapist, as they can provide the clearest assessment for your subsequent treatment direction.
Thank you!

Reply Date: 2017/10/06

More Info

It's understandable to feel apprehensive about seeking help for mental health issues, especially when considering the costs and time involved. However, your symptoms indicate that professional assistance could be beneficial for you. Let’s break down your situation and explore why seeking help from a mental health professional is important.

Firstly, you mentioned experiencing anxiety, unstable emotions, a history of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), a diagnosis of Asperger's syndrome, a fear of vomiting, and hypochondriacal tendencies. These conditions can significantly impact your daily life, relationships, and overall well-being. While it's commendable that you are utilizing your school's counseling services, there are several reasons why seeing a doctor or a specialized mental health professional could provide you with more comprehensive support.

1. Comprehensive Assessment: A mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist, can conduct a thorough assessment of your mental health. This includes understanding your symptoms in depth, their duration, and how they affect your life. They can also rule out any underlying medical conditions that might be contributing to your mental health issues.

2. Tailored Treatment Plans: While school counseling can be helpful, it may not always provide the tailored treatment plans that a specialized doctor can offer. Mental health professionals can prescribe medications if necessary, which can be crucial for managing conditions like anxiety and OCD. They can also recommend specific therapeutic approaches, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which has been shown to be effective for anxiety and OCD.

3. Long-term Management: Mental health conditions often require ongoing management. A psychiatrist can help monitor your progress, adjust medications as needed, and provide continuous support. This is particularly important for conditions like OCD and anxiety, which can fluctuate over time.

4. Coping Strategies and Skills: While counseling can provide you with coping strategies, a mental health professional can offer more structured approaches to help you manage your symptoms. This might include exposure therapy for your vomiting phobia or cognitive restructuring techniques for your hypochondriacal thoughts.

5. Support for Co-occurring Conditions: Given your history of Asperger's syndrome, it's essential to have a professional who understands the complexities of co-occurring conditions. They can help you navigate social situations and develop skills to improve your social interactions, which can be particularly challenging for individuals on the autism spectrum.

6. Access to Resources: Mental health professionals often have access to a wider range of resources, including support groups, workshops, and community programs that can provide additional support.

While the costs of seeing a doctor can be a concern, many mental health professionals offer sliding scale fees based on income, and some insurance plans cover mental health services. Additionally, the investment in your mental health can lead to significant improvements in your quality of life, making it worthwhile in the long run.

In conclusion, while school counseling is a valuable resource, it may not be sufficient for addressing the complexities of your mental health issues. Seeking help from a qualified mental health professional can provide you with a more comprehensive approach to managing your symptoms and improving your overall well-being. Don’t hesitate to reach out for the support you deserve; taking that step can be a crucial part of your journey toward better mental health.

Similar Q&A

Do You Really Need to See a Doctor for Mental Health Issues?

For several years, I have experienced feelings of inferiority and occasionally cried. Whenever someone criticizes me, I wonder if I should even exist or if I am not good enough, which can lead to breakdowns and even hitting walls. I also suffer from insomnia, unable to sleep unti...

Dr. Qiu Junda reply Psychiatry
Hello. Your situation seems to have caused psychological distress and affected your daily life. It is recommended that you make time to consult or seek treatment at a mental health clinic as soon as possible to facilitate early improvement.

Do I Need to See a Doctor for My Anxiety and Mental Health Concerns?

Sometimes I worry about everything and find it hard to trust what I see, often leading to repetitive checking. When I'm anxious, I tend to become overly tense, and my mood fluctuates greatly. I frequently experience negative thoughts, and sometimes my anxiety makes me want t...

Dr. Duan Yongzhang reply Psychiatry
Hello! It is recommended that you visit a psychiatric outpatient clinic for an in-person consultation with a physician to understand your condition. If you are over 18 years old, you can see a general psychiatrist; if you are under 18, you should see a child psychiatrist.

Should I Seek Help for My Mental Health Struggles?

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 bre...

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 si...

Constantly Worrying About Health: When to See a Mental Health Professional

I often worry about my health; whenever I have a slight issue, I feel like it could be something serious like cancer. Recently, I've been feeling off, but my check-ups have shown nothing wrong. However, I still feel like there might be something that hasn't been detecte...

Dr. Yu Quanxun reply Psychiatry
Hello, based on your description, you are quite concerned about your physical condition, which is causing you some distress. Although your tests have all come back normal, you still feel anxious. If this level of worry is affecting your mood and sleep, I would recommend seeking h...