Overcoming Anxiety: Managing Mental Health and Performance Issues

Anxiety issues

Hello doctor, I used to feel that I had insufficient erection hardness.
Later, I went to see a doctor who said that at my age, it's unlikely to have this issue, and even if there is, it would be psychological.
It seems that it really is a psychological problem because I can't properly masturbate without thinking about these issues.
Also, before going to sleep, I often feel like if I fall asleep, I won't wake up again.
I really don't know what to do, but for the past few weeks, it hasn't been a problem.
However, I still feel anxious after masturbating.
Is there any solution for me? I don't want to ask my parents to take me to see a doctor again because I've already seen too many, and almost every time, nothing is wrong.
There was one time I had a stomachache, which turned out to be due to excessive anxiety.
Do you have any methods to help me divert my attention? I really don't want to see a doctor anymore.
This started happening in my third year of junior high; could it be related to the pressure of exams?

En en, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/03/15

Dr. Lin Mianzhang reply Psychiatry

Hi there! I'm curious, which specialty did you see a doctor for before? Have you ever consulted a psychiatrist? Based on your description, it seems that psychological factors have a significant impact, such as the stress from exams possibly being one of the reasons.
However, it's also important to assess if there are other underlying causes, which should be evaluated in person by a psychiatrist.
It seems that you may be more prone to anxiety, and typically, high levels of anxiety can affect sleep, energy, appetite, libido, and concentration.
I recommend that you learn relaxation techniques, starting with being mindful of your breathing.
Practice diaphragmatic breathing, aiming to slow down your breath.
When you start to feel distracted, focus your attention back on your breathing.
Once you become proficient, this can help alleviate your anxiety.
For further training, you might consider joining mindfulness-based stress reduction groups.
Our facility (Bali Rehabilitation Hospital) offers stress relief and mindfulness groups at the Luzhou outpatient department, so if you're nearby, you can participate.
Of course, in addition to relaxation and mindfulness training, combining these with medication and psychotherapy can yield even better results, so be sure to discuss this with your psychiatrist! Wishing you a speedy recovery.

Reply Date: 2021/03/15

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a combination of anxiety and performance-related issues, particularly in relation to sexual health and general well-being. It is not uncommon for individuals, especially during stressful periods such as preparing for exams or transitioning to new stages in life, to experience heightened anxiety that can manifest in various ways, including concerns about sexual performance and sleep disturbances.

Firstly, it's important to acknowledge that anxiety can significantly impact both mental and physical health. The symptoms you describe, such as difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection, anxiety before sleep, and feelings of unease after masturbation, can all be linked to psychological factors rather than purely physical ones. This is often referred to as psychogenic erectile dysfunction, where the mind plays a crucial role in sexual performance.

Here are some strategies that may help you manage your anxiety and improve your overall mental health:
1. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practicing mindfulness can help you stay present and reduce anxiety about the future. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation can be beneficial. These practices can help calm your mind and reduce the physical symptoms of anxiety.

2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): While you mentioned reluctance to see a doctor again, consider exploring therapy options that focus on CBT. This form of therapy helps individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns and beliefs, which can be particularly useful in addressing anxiety related to performance and self-image.

3. Physical Activity: Regular exercise can be a powerful tool for managing anxiety. Physical activity releases endorphins, which can improve mood and reduce stress. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.

4. Healthy Sleep Hygiene: Since you mentioned issues with sleep, establishing a regular sleep routine can help. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, create a relaxing bedtime routine, and limit screen time before bed. If you find your mind racing at night, consider keeping a journal to jot down your thoughts before sleeping.

5. Limit Stimulants: Reducing caffeine and sugar intake can help lower anxiety levels. These substances can exacerbate feelings of nervousness and restlessness.

6. Focus on Positive Activities: Engage in activities that you enjoy and that make you feel good about yourself. This could be hobbies, spending time with friends, or exploring new interests. Focusing on positive experiences can help shift your attention away from anxious thoughts.

7. Open Communication: If you feel comfortable, talk to someone you trust about your feelings. Sometimes, just expressing what you’re going through can alleviate some of the burden.

8. Gradual Exposure: If certain situations trigger your anxiety, consider gradually exposing yourself to these situations in a controlled manner. This can help desensitize you to the anxiety-provoking stimuli over time.

9. Consider Professional Help: If your anxiety continues to interfere with your daily life, it may be worth reconsidering professional help. A mental health professional can provide tailored strategies and support that can be more effective than self-management alone.

Remember, it’s okay to seek help, and doing so does not mean you are weak. Mental health is just as important as physical health, and addressing these concerns can lead to significant improvements in your quality of life. It’s also important to recognize that anxiety can fluctuate, and what works for you may change over time. Be patient with yourself as you navigate these challenges.

Similar Q&A

Overcoming Anxiety: Strategies for Managing Performance Pressure

Hello Doctor: For the past few weeks, I have been staying up late to prepare for a presentation. Although I had completed it, I kept nitpicking at it. I pulled an all-nighter a few days before the presentation, and I felt well-prepared. However, on the morning of the presentation...

Dr. Qiu Junda reply Psychiatry
Hello: Sometimes anxiety is inevitable, and from a certain perspective, it is a normal emotional response. However, if it affects your functional performance, it definitely needs to be addressed. If you have searched online for stress relief methods but found them ineffective, I ...

Overcoming Anxiety: Strategies for Managing Stress in Exams and Work

I feel that I get very nervous easily, whether it's during exams or at work. For example, during a math test, I often write "+" as "-" and "0" as "2," and I don't realize these mistakes until after the exam when I relax and sudden...

Dr. Ke Shengying reply Psychiatry
Dear Zhang, Dr. Ke Sheng-Ying from the Psychiatric Department of Tainan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, respectfully replies: Having a tendency to be easily anxious can often diminish performance in various aspects. If this is causing you significant distress, I rec...

Effective Strategies to Reduce Anxiety and Combat Burnout

Hello, doctor. Over the past few years, I have encountered several significant issues that have caused me excessive anxiety, leading to sleeplessness and extreme frustration with my current tasks, resulting in work delays. To avoid impacting my daily life, I have tried various me...

Dr. Huang Xiaoxian reply Psychiatry
Dear Ada, Thank you for your question. Anxiety is an issue that everyone faces, as it stems from the level of importance you place on certain situations. Most people use various methods to manage stress and cope. However, when anxiety becomes a habit, both the mind and body can...

Managing Anxiety: Tips for Coping with Job Transitions and New Experiences

Hello, every time I start a new job or encounter something new, I often feel very anxious and sometimes even mix things up. Is this a symptom of something, and is there a way to improve it?

Dr. Chen Guangpeng reply Psychiatry
Hello PP user: You may have lower coping abilities, which makes you more prone to anticipatory and performance anxiety. I recommend that you visit a nearby psychiatric outpatient clinic for stress management training, rational thinking training, and other forms of psychotherapy. ...