Should You See a Psychiatrist? Mental Health Struggles

Do I need to see a psychiatrist?

Hello Dr.
Lin: I am a friend of Amino...
Ever since I graduated from junior high, I have been feeling very pessimistic and have had recurring thoughts of wanting to die.
My way of coping with stress is to cry.
After crying, I feel much better psychologically.
However, this happens periodically.
During my school years, I faced significant setbacks from friends.
I told myself to be strong and rely on myself.
At that time, I somewhat closed off my heart, always greeting others with a smile.
People never saw my other side, and my classmates thought I was a very strong girl.
In my dormitory, I would return to my true self.
Some people could tell that I had issues, but I always smiled and said I was fine because I felt I had to rely on myself.
Whenever I needed to vent my emotions, I would think of past painful experiences—so many of them—but I can't recall them now and don't understand why I cried so much back then.
I remember some fragments but still don't comprehend why I was so sad.
I could cry easily back then, but now I can't seem to cry at all.
This shouldn't be a mental illness, right? Am I just avoiding my feelings? My wish is: I hope I can die before happiness arrives...
and that wish remains unchanged.
However, I hope for a natural death, like from cancer or something similar.
Now, I feel a stronger attachment to home.

Xiao Tong, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/02/06

Dr. Lin Yanhong reply Psychiatry

Hi Xiaotong,
From your letter, it's difficult to definitively determine whether you have depression, but your past unpleasant experiences may be the reason for your tendency to cry easily.
Sometimes, the accumulation of past distress can unknowingly affect a person's subsequent life.
You may appear strong on the surface, but there are times when it's hard to hide a pessimistic mindset.
I suggest that you consider seeking psychological therapy.
Therapy is not something to be afraid of; as long as you are ready to make a change or confront certain issues, that’s when the opportunity for growth begins.
Where do you live? Perhaps I can help refer you to a physician.

Dr.
Lin Yanhong

Reply Date: 2003/02/06

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a range of complex emotions and mental health challenges that are deeply affecting your well-being. Your feelings of sadness, anxiety, and the recurring thoughts of wanting to escape from your pain are significant indicators that you may benefit from professional help. Here’s a comprehensive understanding of your situation and why seeing a psychiatrist could be a crucial step for you.

Understanding Your Feelings
From what you've shared, it seems that you have been coping with feelings of sadness and hopelessness for a long time. The fact that you have thoughts of wanting to die, even if you wish for it to happen naturally, is a serious concern. These thoughts can be a sign of underlying mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety disorders. It’s important to recognize that these feelings are not just a phase or something you can simply "snap out of." They are valid experiences that deserve attention and care.

The Importance of Seeking Help
1. Professional Support: A psychiatrist is trained to understand the complexities of mental health. They can provide a safe space for you to express your feelings without judgment. This professional support can help you explore the root causes of your sadness and develop coping strategies that are healthier than crying alone.

2. Diagnosis and Treatment: Mental health conditions can often be diagnosed based on the symptoms you describe. A psychiatrist can assess whether you might be experiencing depression, anxiety, or another mental health disorder. They can also recommend appropriate treatments, which may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both.

3. Coping Mechanisms: While crying can be a temporary release, it may not address the underlying issues causing your distress. A psychiatrist can help you develop healthier coping mechanisms. This could involve cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which is effective for many people struggling with negative thought patterns and emotional distress.

4. Breaking the Cycle: You mentioned feeling like you are escaping from your emotions and that you sometimes feel closed off from others. A mental health professional can help you break this cycle of avoidance and encourage you to confront and process your feelings in a constructive way.

5. Building a Support System: It’s clear that you have been trying to be strong for yourself and others, but it’s essential to have a support system. A psychiatrist can help you identify and strengthen your support network, whether that includes friends, family, or support groups.

Addressing Your Concerns
You expressed uncertainty about whether your feelings constitute a "disease." It’s important to understand that mental health struggles are not a sign of weakness or failure. They are medical conditions that can affect anyone, and seeking help is a courageous step toward healing.
Your desire to rely on yourself is admirable, but it’s also okay to seek help. Everyone needs support at times, and reaching out for professional help does not diminish your strength; rather, it enhances it.

Conclusion
In summary, your experiences and feelings are significant and warrant professional attention. Seeing a psychiatrist can provide you with the tools and support you need to navigate your emotions and improve your mental health. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and there are people who want to help you find a path toward healing and happiness. Taking that first step to seek help can be daunting, but it is also a powerful move toward reclaiming your life and well-being.

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