Should I Seek Help for Ongoing Emotional Distress as a Student?

I have been troubled by these emotions for nearly 7 months. Should I seek medical attention or counseling?

I am currently a student, and I have been under a lot of stress due to school-related issues.
This emotional state seems to have started around that time.
I tried to cope using my previous methods of venting, but I realized that I didn't feel any happier or more joyful; in fact, things have only gotten worse.
During the summer vacation, I felt like I was living each day with a desire for death and had no expectations for the future.
Although I thought I could improve my mood through my own means, the pain and depression, along with thoughts of wanting to die, seem to cling to me every day, often without any clear reason.
Even minor issues can affect me for a long time.
I constantly feel apologetic about everything, and sometimes when I'm in crowded places, I experience difficulty breathing and have thoughts of self-harm.
I have always felt that if I sought help from a counselor, they would think I was just complaining without real issues, let alone a doctor.
Since the summer, I have been using alcohol to escape, and now I resort to self-harm, finding some comfort in seeing blood.
I want to understand what is happening to me.
The sadness that I can't explain is very distressing, and even though I appear calm on the outside, I wrote this in a state of emotional instability.
I hope the doctor can understand me.
I really don't know how to step into the counseling room; I'm so scared.

Hi Nǐ Hǎo, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/12/06

Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry

Hello, it has been over seven months and you are struggling to feel happy, even experiencing suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
This could indicate that you may be suffering from a mental health condition.
Psychological issues are just like physical illnesses; it's important to seek help.
I strongly recommend that you consult a healthcare professional and receive counseling, as mental health issues also require appropriate treatment.
Wishing you a speedy recovery.
Dr.
Wu En-Liang

Reply Date: 2018/12/06

More Info

It sounds like you are going through an incredibly challenging time, and I want to emphasize that seeking help is not only okay but often necessary when dealing with ongoing emotional distress. Your feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and even thoughts of self-harm are serious and should not be taken lightly. It's important to recognize that you are not alone in this struggle, and many students face similar challenges, especially during times of significant change and pressure, such as school transitions.

From what you've described, it seems that your emotional distress has escalated to a point where it is affecting your daily life and overall well-being. The feelings of despair, the urge to escape through alcohol, and self-harm are indicators that you may be experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety. These conditions can manifest in various ways, including feelings of worthlessness, difficulty concentrating, and physical symptoms like shortness of breath in social situations.

It's crucial to understand that reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Many students feel apprehensive about seeking support, fearing judgment or feeling that their problems are not significant enough. However, mental health professionals, including counselors and therapists, are trained to help individuals navigate these feelings without judgment. They can provide a safe space for you to express your thoughts and emotions, and they can work with you to develop coping strategies that are healthier than self-harm or substance use.

You mentioned feeling like you might be perceived as "whining" if you approach a counselor or doctor. This is a common fear, but it's essential to remember that mental health professionals are there to listen and help you. They understand that emotional pain is real and can be debilitating, regardless of the circumstances. Your feelings are valid, and you deserve support.

Here are some steps you can take to seek help:
1. Reach Out to a Trusted Person: If you have a friend, family member, or teacher you trust, consider sharing your feelings with them. Sometimes, just talking about what you're going through can provide relief.

2. Contact a School Counselor: Most schools have counselors who are specifically trained to help students with emotional and mental health issues. You can schedule an appointment, and remember that they are there to help you, not to judge you.

3. Consider Professional Help: If you feel comfortable, seeking help from a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, can be beneficial. They can provide a diagnosis and recommend treatment options, which may include therapy or medication.

4. Practice Self-Care: While seeking professional help, try to engage in activities that promote your well-being. This could include exercise, journaling, or spending time in nature. These activities can help alleviate some stress and improve your mood.

5. Emergency Help: If you ever feel like you might harm yourself or have thoughts of suicide, it is crucial to seek immediate help. Contact a crisis hotline, go to the nearest emergency room, or call emergency services. Your safety is the top priority.

Remember, you are not alone in this, and there are people who want to help you. Taking the first step to reach out for help can be daunting, but it is a vital move toward healing and finding a way to cope with the pressures you are facing. Your life is valuable, and there is hope for a brighter future.

Similar Q&A

Managing Emotional Turmoil: A High School Student's Struggle

I am currently a sophomore in high school. The pace at school is very fast, and the workload is heavy, but I can generally manage it. Occasionally, I feel like I'm not doing anything right, but those thoughts don't last long. What bothers me more is when I come home and...

Dr. Dai Wanxiang reply Psychiatry
Hello, based on your description, it seems that due to the stress in your life lately, your emotional distress is becoming increasingly severe and difficult for you to control. Since it is already affecting your daily life, it is likely that you are experiencing adjustment disord...

Understanding Emotional Instability: Navigating Stress and Mental Health Challenges

Hello, recently I've been facing the dilemma of whether to pursue higher education and which university to attend as I am about to graduate high school. There have also been some issues in my class that make it difficult for me to be myself at school. I've been experien...

Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry
Hello: Based on your description, there are many stressful events occurring simultaneously. You are facing pressure and choices regarding further education, some issues in your class, interpersonal interaction stress, and a decline in emotional and impulse control. It seems that ...

Navigating Mental Health: A Journey Through Emotional Turmoil

I have been living like this for a long time. In my freshman year, I stayed in the school dormitory and lived with my classmates. I felt the need to suppress my emotions, afraid of being seen by them. I didn't want to share my true feelings, so I kept buying things to gain t...

Dr. Chen Guangpeng reply Psychiatry
Hello, Dolphin netizen: After reading your heartfelt confession, I can almost feel your gray world. The simple conclusion is that you are truly depressed and really need external support. Since you are a student, the school counseling center should be your first choice; if you ha...

Understanding the Emotional Struggles of Students Under Pressure

I feel so much pressure in my third year of high school; every day is either an exam or studying, over and over again. Sometimes I really want to end it all, thinking that would relieve me from the stress of exams. However, I don't have the courage to commit suicide. Even wh...

Dr. Tang Xinbei reply Psychiatry
Dear Lizzie: It seems that you are feeling quite down, facing the repetitive daily routine and the heavy academic pressure, which makes you feel helpless and depressed?! Additionally, your physical condition doesn't seem to be good; your resistance and immune system appear t...