I'm not sure if I'm sick; what are the symptoms?
I have a history of self-harm and wrist-cutting suicide attempts, but I am now in vocational school.
Recently, I have been feeling very annoyed and exhausted, easily irritated, and I find everything and everyone around me to be unpleasant.
I feel uncomfortable, experience chest tightness, panic, and am filled with negative emotions.
I have thoughts of death and don't know what to do.
My sleep has been difficult, and worse, I haven't been able to sleep at all.
Speaking and walking have become severely challenging, my limbs feel weak, and sometimes I tremble.
I also experience dizziness, headaches, and difficulty concentrating.
However, I have been masking my feelings and pushing through.
I want to ask the doctor what might be wrong with me.
I hope it's nothing serious.
Thank you for your advice, doctor.
Wuming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/12/23
Dr. Peng Liyun reply Psychiatry
Hello: Based on your description, I can sense your discomfort and efforts.
It seems that your symptoms encompass emotional, cognitive, and physiological aspects, which have also affected your daily life.
However, from your current description, I cannot immediately determine what illness you may have.
I recommend that you promptly visit a mental health clinic to gain a more comprehensive understanding of your psychological and mental state, allowing professionals to assist you in resolving your concerns.
Sincerely, Dr.
Peng Li-yun, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.
Reply Date: 2020/12/23
More Info
It sounds like you are experiencing a range of distressing symptoms that are significantly impacting your daily life. Based on what you've described, it is crucial to take these feelings seriously and consider seeking professional help. The symptoms you mentioned—such as irritability, feelings of discomfort, panic, negative emotions, thoughts of death, sleep difficulties, physical weakness, tremors, and concentration issues—are concerning and may indicate underlying mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety disorders.
Firstly, it’s important to acknowledge that having thoughts of self-harm or suicide is a serious matter. These thoughts can be indicative of severe emotional distress and should never be ignored. It’s essential to talk to someone who can help, such as a mental health professional. They can provide a safe space for you to express your feelings and help you develop coping strategies.
Your feelings of irritability and discomfort around family and others could be signs of social anxiety or depression. It’s common for individuals struggling with mental health issues to feel overwhelmed by social interactions, leading to withdrawal and increased feelings of isolation. The physical symptoms you describe, such as chest tightness, panic, and fatigue, can also be manifestations of anxiety, which often accompanies depression.
Sleep disturbances are another critical symptom. Sleep is vital for mental health, and chronic sleep issues can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and depression. If you are not sleeping well, it can lead to a cycle of fatigue and irritability, making it even harder to cope with daily stressors.
The physical symptoms you mentioned—like weakness, tremors, and difficulty walking or speaking—could be related to anxiety or panic attacks. These symptoms can feel very real and distressing, but they are often linked to the body’s response to stress and anxiety. It’s important to discuss these symptoms with a healthcare provider, as they can help determine if there are any underlying medical issues that need to be addressed.
In terms of seeking help, I strongly encourage you to reach out to a mental health professional. This could be a psychologist, psychiatrist, or a licensed therapist. They can conduct a thorough assessment and help you understand what you are experiencing. Treatment options may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both, depending on your specific needs.
It’s also helpful to talk to someone you trust about how you’re feeling. This could be a family member, friend, or teacher. Sharing your experiences can alleviate some of the burdens you are carrying and can provide you with additional support.
In summary, your symptoms are significant and warrant professional attention. You are not alone in this, and there are people who can help you navigate through these difficult feelings. Please consider reaching out for help as soon as possible. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and taking that first step can lead to a path of healing and recovery.
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