Do I Need Help? Mental Health Struggles in College

Q: Do I Need Help? Mental Health Struggles in College

Hello, thank you for your inquiry： It sounds like you have been struggling with emotional issues for a long time and are very concerned about your relationships with others. <br>You often feel hurt and have mentioned several symptoms associated with depression. <br>I recommend se

Do I need to seek medical attention in this situation?

Since high school, I have hated myself and felt that life has no meaning, questioning why I should live for so long.
I have thought about suicide before a certain age, but I didn't dwell on it too much.
While preparing for exams, the pressure from my expectations and those of my family and school led me to consider self-harm and suicide, but I managed to hold on at that time.
Now that I am in college, I don't have familiar people around me, and I feel that my roommates don't really like me.
I often get caught up in my thoughts about whether to join them in activities, and every time I walk with them, I feel left behind and lost in my own thoughts.

Additionally, due to the pressure of interpersonal relationships, I find myself experiencing more negative emotions.
Although I have been negative in the past, it wasn't to the extent that I frequently think about when and how I might commit suicide.
This week, my mood suddenly worsened; I find myself wanting to cry at night, and today I cried intermittently for one to two hours (I couldn't even find a reason, just feeling sad and wanting to die).
Later, I even took a knife to cut myself.
I was afraid of the pain, so I didn't cut too deeply, just a few shallow cuts that are barely noticeable.
I felt a strange sense of happiness from the pain of the wounds, and I think I am not normal.

My family relationships are not great, and I feel very insecure and timid, afraid to say anything.
I have tried to express myself, but my mother shut me down.
I fear discussing anything with my family because I believe they won't understand me.
Moreover, I even wish to develop a serious illness so that someone would care about me.
I feel abnormal and hate this part of myself.
I often get irritated and angry over trivial matters.

Do I need to seek help? I feel like my situation isn't very serious, and I'm afraid of wasting others' time if I'm not really in crisis.

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/12/01

Dr. Huang Xiaoxian reply Psychiatry

Hello, thank you for your inquiry: It sounds like you have been struggling with emotional issues for a long time and are very concerned about your relationships with others.
You often feel hurt and have mentioned several symptoms associated with depression.
I recommend seeking medical assistance for evaluation and appropriate treatment.
I hope this can help you!

Reply Date: 2018/12/01

More Info

It sounds like you are going through an incredibly challenging time, and I want to acknowledge the courage it takes to express these feelings. From what you've shared, it is clear that you are experiencing significant emotional distress, which can manifest in various ways, including feelings of worthlessness, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts. These are serious issues that warrant attention and support.

Firstly, it is essential to understand that you are not alone in feeling this way. Many college students face mental health challenges, especially during transitions such as moving away from home and adjusting to a new environment. The pressure to meet academic and social expectations can be overwhelming, leading to feelings of isolation and despair. Your experiences of feeling disconnected from your peers and struggling with self-worth are common among young adults, particularly in a high-pressure academic setting.

The thoughts of self-harm and suicide that you mentioned are particularly concerning. These thoughts can often arise from feelings of hopelessness and a desire to escape emotional pain. It's crucial to recognize that these feelings are a signal that you need support. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness; rather, it is a brave step towards healing. Mental health professionals, such as counselors or therapists, can provide you with the tools and strategies to cope with these feelings and help you understand the underlying issues contributing to your distress.

You mentioned that you have tried to talk to your family about your feelings but felt dismissed. This is a common experience for many individuals struggling with mental health issues, especially in families that may not fully understand or acknowledge these challenges. It is vital to find someone who can listen to you without judgment. This could be a trusted friend, a counselor at your college, or a mental health professional. Many universities offer counseling services that are confidential and can provide you with the support you need.

In addition to seeking professional help, there are several strategies you can implement to help manage your feelings. Journaling can be a powerful tool for processing emotions. Writing down your thoughts and feelings can help you gain clarity and understand your emotions better. Engaging in physical activity, such as walking or exercising, can also help alleviate feelings of anxiety and depression. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises, can help ground you in the present moment and reduce overwhelming feelings.

It's also important to build a support network. While it may feel challenging to connect with others, try to reach out to classmates or join clubs that align with your interests. Building relationships takes time, but having a support system can significantly impact your mental well-being.

Lastly, if you ever feel that you are in immediate danger of harming yourself or having thoughts of suicide, please reach out for help immediately. Contact a crisis hotline, a mental health professional, or go to the nearest emergency room. Your life is valuable, and there are people who want to help you through this difficult time.

In conclusion, yes, you do need help. Your feelings are valid, and seeking support is a crucial step towards healing. Remember, you are not alone, and there are resources available to help you navigate this challenging period in your life. Take that first step, and reach out for the support you deserve.

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