When to Seek Medical Help Again for Depression Symptoms

Q: When to Seek Medical Help Again for Depression Symptoms

Hello Y： You've worked hard preparing for your exam! I'm not sure if you've finished your exam yet. <br>If your mood and appetite return to normal after the exam stress is relieved, then you may not need to seek medical attention; however, if the stress persists or if your mood a

Under what circumstances should one seek medical attention again?

About seven months ago, I was diagnosed with persistent depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder.
My physical symptoms included weight loss and irritable bowel syndrome.
I was on medication and showed improvement two to three months ago, leading to a formal discontinuation of the medication.
However, recently, due to exam stress, my weight has started to decrease again, and I have a reduced appetite.
I feel somewhat anxious, but it hasn't completely affected my daily life.
I'm unsure if I should seek medical attention for a reevaluation by a doctor.

Y, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/11/01

Dr. Lin Mianzhang reply Psychiatry

Hello Y: You've worked hard preparing for your exam! I'm not sure if you've finished your exam yet.
If your mood and appetite return to normal after the exam stress is relieved, then you may not need to seek medical attention; however, if the stress persists or if your mood and appetite do not improve after the exam, it is still advisable to consult a physician for evaluation.
If you prefer not to rely on medication, you might also consider psychological counseling, but these options should be discussed with your doctor before making a decision.
Wishing you a speedy recovery!

Reply Date: 2020/11/01

More Info

When it comes to managing depression, particularly persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia) and generalized anxiety disorder, it is crucial to recognize the signs that indicate a need for medical intervention. Based on your description, it seems that you have experienced a relapse of symptoms following a period of improvement. This is not uncommon in individuals with a history of depression, especially when faced with stressors such as exam pressure.

When to Seek Medical Help Again
1. Worsening Symptoms: If you notice that your symptoms are worsening, such as a significant decline in your weight, appetite, or overall mood, it is essential to consult your healthcare provider. Weight loss and loss of appetite can lead to further health complications, and addressing these issues early can prevent them from escalating.

2. Increased Anxiety: You mentioned feeling a bit anxious, which can be a sign that your mental health is becoming more unstable. If this anxiety starts to interfere with your daily activities, sleep, or relationships, it is a clear indicator that you should seek help.

3. Impact on Daily Life: If your symptoms begin to affect your ability to function in daily life—such as attending classes, completing assignments, or engaging in social activities—it is time to reach out to your doctor. Mental health is just as important as physical health, and any decline in your ability to manage daily tasks should be taken seriously.

4. Suicidal Thoughts or Self-Harm: If you ever experience thoughts of self-harm or suicide, it is imperative to seek immediate help. This is a medical emergency, and you should contact a mental health professional or emergency services right away.

5. Duration of Symptoms: If your symptoms persist for more than a couple of weeks without improvement, it is advisable to consult your doctor. Sometimes, medication adjustments or additional therapeutic interventions may be necessary.

Steps to Take
- Contact Your Healthcare Provider: Reach out to your doctor or mental health professional to discuss your current symptoms. They can provide a thorough evaluation and determine if a change in your treatment plan is necessary.

- Consider Therapy: If you are not already in therapy, consider starting or resuming sessions with a mental health professional. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other therapeutic approaches can be very effective in managing anxiety and depression.

- Lifestyle Adjustments: While waiting for your appointment, consider implementing lifestyle changes that can help alleviate symptoms. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and mindfulness practices such as meditation can significantly improve your mental health.

- Support System: Lean on your support system, whether it be friends, family, or support groups. Sharing your feelings and experiences with others can provide relief and help you feel less isolated.

Conclusion
In summary, it is essential to be proactive about your mental health, especially when you notice changes in your symptoms. Given your history of persistent depressive disorder and the current stressors you are facing, seeking medical help sooner rather than later is advisable. Your healthcare provider can help you navigate this challenging time and adjust your treatment plan as needed to support your recovery. Remember, taking care of your mental health is a priority, and reaching out for help is a sign of strength.

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