Self-Harm: Headaches and Mental Health Consultation

Consultation for headaches and other symptoms resulting from long-term self-harm?

When I encounter unpleasant situations, I tend to strike a specific area of my head forcefully with my finger joints, which occasionally causes pain in that area.
This symptom has persisted since high school.
Additionally, I struggle to concentrate on one task and lack motivation for an active lifestyle.
However, I do have ways to cope with overly negative thoughts.
Occasionally, I have thoughts of wanting to die, but I can resolve them quickly.
I don't have issues with friends or family; I usually cope by playing games, browsing the internet, reading novels, watching movies, and listening to music.
My overall perspective on the value of life remains positive.
After working for two months, I was laid off due to these issues.
Now, I am staying at home and would like to know what I should do.
I feel that completing questionnaires may not accurately reflect my problems.
Sometimes I can tolerate the head striking behavior, and other times I cannot.
Which medical specialty should I consult for my headaches? I apologize for the disorganized text, as I am currently experiencing head pain.
I have never seen a psychiatrist, so I would like to seek advice first.

Ami, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/09/17

Dr. Qiu Junda reply Psychiatry

Hello.
The symptoms described in the text may be a way of expressing emotions, but this is not a healthy pattern and may even involve self-harming behaviors.
It is recommended that you search for information on emotional intelligence (EQ) management or stress coping strategies.
You can learn methods such as talking to friends or engaging in leisure activities after work.
Additionally, you may consider consulting a mental health clinic nearby, which could be beneficial.
If that is not convenient, you can also call the Ministry of Health and Welfare's 1925 hotline for assistance.
They provide counseling, guidance, and referral services to help you address your mental health concerns.

Reply Date: 2020/09/17

More Info

It sounds like you're experiencing a complex interplay of physical and mental health challenges, particularly with your headaches and the self-harming behavior of hitting your head. It's important to address both the physical symptoms and the underlying emotional issues that may be contributing to your situation.

Firstly, the act of hitting your head can be a form of self-harm, which is often a coping mechanism for emotional distress. This behavior can lead to physical pain and headaches, as you've noted. It's crucial to understand that while this may provide temporary relief or distraction from emotional pain, it can also exacerbate your physical symptoms and lead to further complications. Engaging in self-harm can be a sign of deeper emotional issues, such as anxiety, depression, or unresolved trauma.
Your difficulty concentrating and lack of motivation are also concerning. These symptoms can be indicative of anxiety or depression, which are common mental health conditions that can significantly impact daily functioning. It's good to hear that you have some strategies for managing negative thoughts, such as engaging in hobbies like gaming, reading, or listening to music. However, these may not be sufficient if you're experiencing persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness.

The thoughts of self-harm and fleeting suicidal ideation, even if they pass quickly, should not be taken lightly. It's essential to seek professional help to explore these feelings further. A mental health professional can provide a safe space for you to discuss your thoughts and feelings, and they can help you develop healthier coping strategies.
Given your symptoms, I recommend consulting with a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. They can help assess your mental health more thoroughly and determine if you might benefit from therapy, medication, or a combination of both. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is particularly effective for addressing negative thought patterns and developing coping strategies for anxiety and depression.

In terms of your headaches, it would be wise to consult a neurologist. They can evaluate the physical aspects of your headaches and determine if there are any underlying conditions that need to be addressed. Keeping a headache diary can be helpful; note when the headaches occur, their intensity, duration, and any triggers you notice. This information can assist your healthcare provider in diagnosing and treating your headaches effectively.

Additionally, consider implementing some self-care strategies to help manage both your headaches and emotional well-being. Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and mindfulness practices such as meditation or yoga can be beneficial. These practices can help reduce stress and improve your overall mood, which may, in turn, lessen the frequency and severity of your headaches.

Lastly, it's important to foster connections with others, even if it's challenging. Isolation can worsen feelings of depression and anxiety. Consider reaching out to support groups, online forums, or community resources where you can connect with others who may be experiencing similar challenges. Building a support network can provide you with additional coping resources and reduce feelings of loneliness.

In summary, it's crucial to seek professional help for both your headaches and emotional distress. A comprehensive approach that addresses both physical and mental health will be the most effective in improving your overall well-being. Remember, reaching out for help is a sign of strength, and there are resources available to support you through this difficult time.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Self-Harm: Seeking Help for Emotional Distress

Hello Doctor, I have been feeling very down lately. When I get angry, I tend to scratch my hands, feet, and face with my nails, hit walls, pull my hair, and binge eat. After these actions, I feel terrible about myself. I also struggle with insomnia and often have nightmares. Ever...

Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello: It is recommended to use a mood thermometer (link below, and there is also an app available for download) to assess your emotional state over the past week. If your score is above 10, it is advisable to seek help. If it exceeds 15, it is definitely time to consult a psychi...

Understanding Anxiety, Intrusive Thoughts, and Self-Harm in Mental Health

Hello, doctor. I have a serious problem with procrastination at work, and I struggle with time management. My colleagues don't complain much about me, but I always feel like I'm doing a terrible job and that everyone is just tolerating me. I constantly have thoughts and...

Dr. Qiu Junda reply Psychiatry
Hello. It seems that you may fall under the category of anxiety disorders. This is actually similar to the diagnoses you mentioned earlier, such as irritable bowel syndrome, generalized anxiety disorder, autonomic nervous system dysregulation, and obsessive thinking. All of these...

Struggling with Self-Harm: Navigating Emotional Turmoil and Seeking Help

I have recently been experiencing frequent emotional instability. In the past, when I felt angry or sad, I resorted to self-harm using a utility knife. I have recurrent suicidal thoughts. During middle school, I was bullied and ostracized; I was even called out by classmates to b...

Dr. Tang Jiahong reply Psychiatry
Hello: The combination of interpersonal relationships, emotional dysregulation, and self-harming behaviors presents a complex situation. It may be related to individual and peer personalities, various stressors, family circumstances, and more. It is recommended to seek consultati...

Seeking Guidance for Overcoming Negative Thoughts and Self-Harm

Hello, doctor. Due to the influence of my family since childhood, I realize that I have a very negative and closed personality, along with a strong capacity for endurance. Certain factors have led me to strongly dislike humanity. Additionally, I have a very accomplished peer amon...

Dr. Qiu Junda reply Psychiatry
Hello. The text reveals long-term negative emotions and self-harming behavior. I hope you can cherish yourself, just as your questions indicate a desire for better mental and physical health. I recommend that you consult a mental health professional (what you refer to as a psycho...