Am I Exaggerating My Mental Health Issues? Self-Perception

Q: Am I Exaggerating My Mental Health Issues? Self-Perception

Hello： The situation described above is referred to as "dissociation." Dissociation occurs when, under strong psychological pressure, our subconscious attempts to exclude certain experiences, leading to a temporary inability to connect with those experiences on a subjective level

Exaggerating symptoms? / Feeling like you're not yourself?

Hello, doctor.
This year, I have received psychiatric treatment.
During my follow-up visits, the doctor asks me questions, and I always tend to focus on the negative aspects of my situation.
For example, when asked if I have been feeling irritable lately, I respond with "I have been very irritable," even though I don't experience significant emotional fluctuations.
After leaving the doctor's office, I often wonder if I have been dishonest with the doctor or if I am viewing my condition too seriously (my family has mentioned this, suggesting it might be why I can't move forward).
I question whether I am exaggerating my illness.
However, in the moment of answering, I genuinely feel that my responses reflect the truth.
Each time I finish my appointment and reflect on my answers, I feel like the person who entered the consultation room is not the real me, but rather someone else.
Sometimes, I struggle to differentiate between actual memories and dreams.
I often feel spaced out, as if time has paused, and the space I occupy seems to have never existed.
My emotional expressions sometimes lead me to believe that this isn't truly me.
I am uncertain if these feelings are genuinely my own issues.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/08/15

Dr. Huang Jiabin reply Psychiatry

Hello: The situation described above is referred to as "dissociation." Dissociation occurs when, under strong psychological pressure, our subconscious attempts to exclude certain experiences, leading to a temporary inability to connect with those experiences on a subjective level.
For instance, when certain sensory perceptions are excluded, one may feel detached or numb; when negative memories are excluded, it can result in fragmented recollections.
In more severe cases, even self-identity and characteristics may be excluded, potentially leading to "dissociative identity disorder," commonly known as "multiple personality disorder." Individuals exhibiting dissociative symptoms often have a history of trauma, which necessitates the exclusion of certain unacceptable internal experiences.
Therefore, I recommend that in addition to consulting a mental health specialist for a proper diagnosis, psychological therapy can help you identify any unresolved psychological traumas from the past.
Once these traumas are addressed and healed, and the previously excluded experiences are re-integrated, it is believed that the dissociative symptoms will improve.

Reply Date: 2018/08/15

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a complex and challenging relationship with your mental health and self-perception. First and foremost, it's important to acknowledge that your feelings and experiences are valid. Mental health issues can often lead to confusion about one's own emotions and thoughts, and it's not uncommon for individuals to question the authenticity of their experiences, especially when they are in a clinical setting.

From what you've described, it seems that you may be grappling with a few key issues: a sense of disconnection from your true self, difficulty in accurately expressing your feelings, and a tendency to doubt your own perceptions. These are not uncommon experiences for individuals dealing with mental health challenges, particularly conditions like anxiety and depression.

When you mention feeling like you are not being truthful with your doctor or exaggerating your symptoms, it's essential to recognize that this can be a common phenomenon in mental health treatment. Many people feel pressure to present themselves in a certain way during appointments, whether that be to appear more composed or to downplay their struggles. This can lead to a disconnect between how you feel internally and how you express those feelings externally. It might be helpful to approach your sessions with the mindset that there is no "right" way to feel or respond. Your doctor is there to help you understand and navigate your experiences, not to judge them.

The feeling of being "another person" when you enter the doctor's office is also significant. This could indicate a dissociative experience, where you feel detached from your thoughts, feelings, or sense of identity. Dissociation can be a coping mechanism in response to overwhelming stress or trauma, and it can make it difficult to connect with your true self. If this resonates with you, it might be worth discussing with your healthcare provider, as they can help you explore these feelings further.

Additionally, the confusion between reality and dreams, as well as the sensation of time standing still, can be symptoms of anxiety or depression. These experiences can distort your perception of reality and make it challenging to engage with the world around you. It's crucial to communicate these experiences to your doctor, as they can provide insights and strategies to help you manage these feelings.

Self-perception is a complex aspect of mental health. It can be influenced by various factors, including past experiences, current emotional states, and even societal expectations. It's not uncommon for individuals to feel like they are not themselves, especially during periods of emotional turmoil. This disconnection can lead to feelings of inadequacy or self-doubt, which can further exacerbate mental health issues.

To address these concerns, consider the following strategies:
1. Open Communication: Continue to communicate openly with your healthcare provider. If you feel like you are not being honest or that your responses are exaggerated, express this to them. They can help you navigate these feelings and provide support.

2. Journaling: Keeping a journal can be a helpful way to track your emotions and thoughts. Writing down your feelings can provide clarity and help you differentiate between what is real and what may be influenced by anxiety or depression.

3. Mindfulness Practices: Engaging in mindfulness or grounding exercises can help you reconnect with the present moment and your true self. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or even simple awareness of your surroundings can be beneficial.

4. Therapeutic Techniques: Consider discussing different therapeutic approaches with your provider, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which can help you challenge negative thought patterns and improve your self-perception.

5. Support Systems: Surround yourself with supportive friends or family members who understand your struggles. Sharing your experiences with trusted individuals can help alleviate feelings of isolation and provide additional perspectives on your situation.

In conclusion, it’s essential to remember that you are not alone in your experiences, and questioning your mental health is a part of the journey toward understanding yourself better. Continue to seek help, express your feelings, and work towards finding a sense of clarity and peace within yourself. Healing is a process, and it's okay to take it one step at a time.

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