When Should You Seek Help for Anxiety? Your Symptoms

Q: When Should You Seek Help for Anxiety? Your Symptoms

Hello Hsuan： Based on your description, it seems that you have experienced feelings of worry and anxiety since elementary school, and now you often find yourself dealing with negative thoughts, concerns, and fear regarding crowds and the future. <br>These anxiety-like symptoms su

At what level of anxiety should one seek medical attention?

Hello, I am a second-year high school student, and I really don't know what to do.
Since before I graduated from elementary school, I have started to think about everything in a negative way, which has led me to be very fearful of the unknown.
Whenever I know that an event, such as an exam, is coming up, I feel pressure and anxiety, and I start to overthink, accompanied by irritability.
I can't calm down to do what I need to do; I just keep thinking.
However, when the event actually occurs, I don't feel uncomfortable, so I believe it's a personality issue.

Once I entered high school, these situations persisted, and I also became less fond of socializing, feeling exhausted by it.
I envy my classmates who have good social relationships, but I find maintaining social interactions very tiring.
I have developed a habit of staying up late; even when I have nothing to do, I can't force myself to go to bed early, feeling like I don't want the day to pass without doing anything.

Additionally, I sometimes feel overwhelmed by small things, leading to sudden emotional breakdowns, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, and numbness in my limbs.
I would hide in the bathroom and cry, especially when I don't know what to do.
If there is something important, I feel an urgent need to complete it immediately; otherwise, I become very anxious and unable to concentrate.
I am also very sensitive to others' perceptions.
I know I run slowly, and I have been teased about my body in the past.
I keep telling myself it's okay, but I still become very fearful of running in front of others.
As a result, during a normal timed 800-meter run, I find myself gasping, feeling scared, and crying, and I only realized it was hyperventilation after going to the health room.
Even if I sleep for 10 hours, I still feel like I haven't rested well, and I feel tired with tight and sore shoulders.
I feel that life is not happy and lacks security.
I am even filled with fear about growing up.
In recent months, I have suddenly experienced negative thoughts that I never considered before, and I don't know why they appear, but they clear up once I calm down.
Thank you for your help.

hsuan, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/02/28

Dr. Wang Yazhen reply Psychiatry

Hello Hsuan: Based on your description, it seems that you have experienced feelings of worry and anxiety since elementary school, and now you often find yourself dealing with negative thoughts, concerns, and fear regarding crowds and the future.
These anxiety-like symptoms suggest that you may benefit from consulting a mental health professional or psychiatrist to discuss appropriate treatment options.
Generally, counseling or therapy is recommended (you can seek assistance from your school), and whether medication is necessary should be determined through a diagnosis and discussion with your physician.
Thank you!

Reply Date: 2020/02/28

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a significant amount of anxiety and distress, which can be overwhelming, especially as a high school student. Your feelings of fear regarding the unknown, social fatigue, and physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat and dizziness during stressful situations are all indicators that you may be dealing with anxiety.
Anxiety can manifest in various ways, including excessive worry, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and physical symptoms such as muscle tension, fatigue, and sleep disturbances. The fact that you have been experiencing these symptoms for an extended period, particularly since elementary school, suggests that it may be beneficial for you to seek professional help.

When to Seek Help for Anxiety
1. Persistent Symptoms: If your anxiety symptoms have been ongoing and are affecting your daily life, such as your ability to study, socialize, or enjoy activities you once liked, it is crucial to seek help.
2. Physical Symptoms: Experiencing physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, dizziness, or feeling faint during anxiety-provoking situations can indicate that your anxiety is affecting your physical health.
3. Avoidance Behavior: If you find yourself avoiding social situations or activities that you used to enjoy due to fear or anxiety, this is a sign that your anxiety may be becoming more severe.

4. Impact on Daily Life: If your anxiety is interfering with your schoolwork, relationships, or overall quality of life, it is essential to talk to someone who can help.

5. Negative Thoughts: If you are experiencing intrusive negative thoughts that are distressing and difficult to manage, this could be a sign of a deeper issue that needs to be addressed.

Understanding Your Symptoms
Your description of feeling overwhelmed, having difficulty sleeping, and experiencing emotional outbursts indicates that you may be dealing with anxiety and possibly depression. It's essential to recognize that these feelings are not just personality traits but can be symptoms of mental health conditions that can be treated.

Steps to Take
1. Talk to Someone: It can be incredibly helpful to talk to a trusted adult, such as a parent, teacher, or school counselor. They can provide support and help you find the right resources.

2. Professional Help: Consider seeking help from a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. They can provide a proper assessment and discuss treatment options, which may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both.

3. Practice Self-Care: Engage in activities that promote relaxation and well-being, such as exercise, mindfulness, or hobbies that you enjoy. Establishing a routine can also help create a sense of stability.

4. Educate Yourself: Learning more about anxiety can help you understand what you are experiencing and reduce feelings of isolation. Many resources are available online or through mental health organizations.

5. Support Groups: Sometimes, connecting with others who are experiencing similar feelings can be beneficial. Look for support groups in your area or online.

Conclusion
Your feelings are valid, and seeking help is a courageous step towards feeling better. Remember, you are not alone in this, and there are people and resources available to support you. Taking action now can lead to a healthier and more fulfilling life. Don't hesitate to reach out for help; it can make a significant difference in your mental health journey.

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