Do I Need to See a Doctor for My Anxiety Symptoms?

Q: Do I Need to See a Doctor for My Anxiety Symptoms?

Hello Ms. <br>Chen： It seems that you may be overly sensitive to discomfort in your body, and you also experience anxiety and difficulty relaxing. <br>This could be triggered by external stressors, influenced by your personal constitution, or a combination of both. <br>The underl

Do I need to see a doctor for this?

I often feel anxious and scared whenever I experience even a slight discomfort, whether I'm out or at home.
Sometimes, I get so nervous that I feel dizzy and have chest tightness.
When I search for symptoms online and find ones that resemble my own, I start to think it's something serious.
I end up overthinking and wanting to cry, but I hold it in until a friend or family member brings up something similar, which makes me unable to contain my fear and I end up crying.
I want to try listening to music or doing other activities, but I still feel unwell and just want to be quiet.
However, being quiet leads me to overthink, and I often find myself lying in bed at night with my eyes closed, thinking too much and getting very anxious...
and unable to sleep.

Ms. Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/03/05

Dr. Lin Mianzhang reply Psychiatry

Hello Ms.
Chen: It seems that you may be overly sensitive to discomfort in your body, and you also experience anxiety and difficulty relaxing.
This could be triggered by external stressors, influenced by your personal constitution, or a combination of both.
The underlying cause needs to be assessed through a consultation with a physician, who can then make a judgment.
Once the cause is understood, we can determine the most appropriate assistance for you.
I believe your situation is not indicative of a serious illness.
If you are willing to seek medical attention and discuss your concerns with a physician, you should feel much more at ease afterward.
Wishing you peace and good health!

Reply Date: 2020/03/05

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing significant anxiety symptoms that are impacting your daily life. The feelings of tension, fear, and physical discomfort you describe—such as dizziness and chest tightness—are common manifestations of anxiety. Additionally, the tendency to search for symptoms online and then spiral into worry is a behavior often seen in individuals dealing with anxiety disorders. This cycle can lead to increased distress and can make it difficult to function normally.

Given the severity and persistence of your symptoms, it would be advisable to seek help from a mental health professional. Here are several reasons why consulting a doctor or therapist could be beneficial for you:
1. Professional Assessment: A mental health professional can provide a thorough assessment of your symptoms. They can help determine whether you are experiencing an anxiety disorder, which can include generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, or other related conditions. Understanding the specific nature of your anxiety can guide effective treatment options.

2. Therapeutic Support: Therapy, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), has been shown to be effective for anxiety disorders. A therapist can help you identify and challenge negative thought patterns, develop coping strategies, and gradually expose you to the situations that trigger your anxiety in a controlled manner. This process can help reduce your fear and improve your overall functioning.

3. Medication Options: If your anxiety is severe, medication may be a helpful option. Antidepressants, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and anti-anxiety medications can help manage symptoms. A psychiatrist can discuss the potential benefits and side effects of medication, allowing you to make an informed decision about your treatment.

4. Coping Strategies: While you mentioned trying to listen to music or engage in other activities, a mental health professional can provide you with tailored coping strategies that are specifically designed to manage anxiety. Techniques such as mindfulness, relaxation exercises, and grounding techniques can help you feel more in control during anxious moments.

5. Support System: Talking to a professional can also help you build a support system. They can guide you on how to communicate your feelings to friends and family, which can alleviate some of the burden you may feel when trying to cope alone.

6. Sleep Issues: Since you mentioned difficulties with sleep, a mental health professional can also address this aspect of your anxiety. Poor sleep can exacerbate anxiety symptoms, creating a vicious cycle. They can provide strategies to improve your sleep hygiene and address any underlying issues contributing to your insomnia.

7. Validation of Your Experience: Finally, seeking help can provide validation for what you are experiencing. It can be reassuring to know that you are not alone in your struggles and that there are effective ways to manage your symptoms.

In conclusion, while it may feel daunting to reach out for help, doing so can be a crucial step toward feeling better. Anxiety can be overwhelming, but with the right support and treatment, many individuals find relief and regain control over their lives. I encourage you to consider scheduling an appointment with a mental health professional who can help you navigate these challenges. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and you deserve to feel better.

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