Am I Sick or Just Feeling Down? Mental Health Struggles

Is it an illness or just feeling down?

I have been feeling down for about six months now.
My emotions fluctuate; sometimes I feel good, and other times I feel extremely bad.
I might be happily playing one moment and then crying the next, or I wake up with a lot of negative thoughts.
Sometimes, I don't even know why I suddenly feel sad and start crying.
My negative thoughts include feelings like I'm really worthless, nobody likes me, and I hate myself.
I have been scratching myself, and now my hands are covered in scratches.
This behavior seems to have become a habit; whenever I have negative thoughts, I resort to this.
I can dwell on a casual comment from someone for a long time, interpreting it negatively.
I start blaming myself, feeling useless and like I'm a burden to others.
I also feel like everyone in the world wishes I were dead and that no one understands me.
Sometimes, when I face setbacks or suddenly think about these feelings, I wish I could just die, but I lack the courage to do so.
I have very low self-confidence; even though everyone says I'm pretty, I feel ugly compared to others.
I set very high standards for myself, and when I can't meet them, I feel extremely disappointed.
I don't often lose my appetite, but occasionally I do feel nauseous and can't eat.
I often feel very tired and want to sleep, and when I do sleep, it's for a long time.
Sometimes, I don't know if I'm too tired to talk or if it's a deeper emotional issue.
I feel like things will never get better, and I'm not interested in anything; I just can't seem to feel happy.
Is my situation indicative of depression? Anxiety disorder?

PP, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/01/03

Dr. Qiu Junda reply Psychiatry

Hello.
The text reveals long-term negative emotions.
As you mentioned, you have high self-expectations.
Additionally, it seems you are also confused about self-identity.
Whether these conditions (symptoms) have reached the level of a disorder (illness) requires further evaluation.
I recommend that you consult a mental health professional (what you referred to as a psychologist) as soon as possible.
If that is not convenient, please consider reaching out to Teacher Chang (1980) or the Lifeline (1995) hotline.
They can also provide counseling, consultation, referral, and other services to help you alleviate your distress.

Reply Date: 2018/01/03

More Info

It sounds like you are going through a very challenging time, and I want to acknowledge the pain and confusion you are experiencing. From your description, it seems that you are dealing with a range of emotional struggles that could be indicative of a mental health condition, such as depression or anxiety. However, it's important to remember that only a qualified mental health professional can provide a proper diagnosis.

Your feelings of sadness, self-hatred, and the tendency to self-harm are concerning. These behaviors often arise as coping mechanisms for emotional pain, and while they may provide temporary relief, they can lead to more significant issues in the long run. The fact that you are experiencing intense mood swings, where you can feel happy one moment and then deeply sad the next, is also a sign that your emotional state is unstable. This fluctuation can be exhausting and may contribute to feelings of hopelessness.

The negative thoughts you mentioned, such as feeling worthless or believing that no one likes you, are common in individuals experiencing depression. These thoughts can become pervasive and may distort your self-image, leading to a cycle of self-criticism and despair. It's also concerning that you mentioned feeling like the world would be better off without you, even if you don't have the courage to act on those thoughts. This indicates that you are in a place of significant emotional distress.

Your lack of interest in activities that once brought you joy, along with feelings of fatigue and a desire to sleep excessively, are also symptoms associated with depression. It's not uncommon for individuals with depression to feel physically drained, as emotional pain can manifest in physical ways. The fact that you sometimes struggle with eating or feel nauseous can also be linked to anxiety or depression, as these conditions often affect appetite and digestion.

Given the complexity of your symptoms, it would be beneficial for you to seek professional help. A mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, can provide you with a comprehensive evaluation and help you understand what you are experiencing. They can also work with you to develop coping strategies and, if necessary, discuss treatment options, which may include therapy and/or medication.

Therapy can be particularly effective for addressing negative thought patterns and developing healthier coping mechanisms. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), for example, focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. It can help you reframe your thoughts about yourself and your situation, leading to improved emotional well-being.

In addition to professional help, consider reaching out to trusted friends or family members about what you're going through. Sharing your feelings can alleviate some of the burden and help you feel less isolated. Engaging in self-care activities, such as exercise, journaling, or creative outlets, may also provide some relief and help you reconnect with yourself.

It's crucial to remember that you are not alone in this struggle, and there is help available. Many people experience similar feelings, and with the right support, it is possible to find a path toward healing and recovery. Please take the step to reach out for help; you deserve to feel better and to have support during this difficult time.

Similar Q&A

Am I Sick? Understanding Signs of Mental Health Struggles

I haven't felt like studying or working lately; I don't want to do anything at all. I've been feeling down, and when I see the sunset in the afternoon, it makes me feel even more depressed. I often forget things and constantly complain about my lack of ability, fee...

Dr. Su Zongwei reply Psychiatry
It could be depression, but it's important to get a proper diagnosis from a physician. Seeking medical attention and treatment can lead to a quick recovery.

Am I Sick? Understanding Mental Health Struggles and Seeking Help

Hello, doctor! During my last visit to the hospital for psychological therapy, I felt that it wasn't effective, and my condition seems to be getting worse. Recently, I have this feeling that people are talking behind my back and trying to set me up. I'm on the verge of ...

Dr. Tang Xinbei reply Psychiatry
Dear Lizzie: It seems that you are feeling quite down, and some uncomfortable experiences and feelings have been troubling you. Your physical condition appears to be negatively affected by your mental state, and the discomfort in your body is further weighing down your mood, crea...

Understanding Symptoms of Mental Health Struggles: When to Seek Help

I have a history of self-harm and wrist-cutting suicide attempts, but I am now in vocational school. Recently, I have been feeling very annoyed and exhausted, easily irritated, and I find everything and everyone around me to be unpleasant. I feel uncomfortable, experience chest t...

Dr. Peng Liyun reply Psychiatry
Hello: Based on your description, I can sense your discomfort and efforts. It seems that your symptoms encompass emotional, cognitive, and physiological aspects, which have also affected your daily life. However, from your current description, I cannot immediately determine what ...

Am I Okay? Understanding Mental Health Struggles and Emotions

I often feel weak, constantly trying to please everyone or putting on a fake smile, and I don't trust anyone around me. I find social interactions extremely exhausting, feeling like everyone is out to harm or discriminate against me, including my family. I also tend to becom...

Dr. Huang Xiaoxian reply Psychiatry
Dear Ber, thank you for your question. From what you’ve described, it seems that your mood has been significantly affected lately, and you are experiencing various interpersonal issues. I wonder if there are any specific events that are causing you distress. The symptoms you ment...