Sensitivity and Emotional Struggles: A Journey Through Counseling

Q: Sensitivity and Emotional Struggles: A Journey Through Counseling

Hello, netizen： Although you may not necessarily be ill, these situations can indeed cause significant distress in your life. <br>It is advisable to seek psychological therapy and discuss with a therapist how to manage these circumstances. <br>If you are unsure where to find reso

Psychological counseling

Since middle school, I have developed some peculiar habits: 1.
I am sensitive to the smell of others; if I dislike the smell on my hands, I feel the urge to wash them.
If I can't wash my hands immediately, I can tolerate it, but I habitually want to smell my hands.
2.
I am also sensitive to swallowing sounds (drinking water, eating food, swallowing saliva).
When it becomes severe, I cannot eat when someone is next to me; I have to wait until they finish eating to feel relieved.
When it's less severe, I feel anxious about drinking water in class, so I rarely do it, possibly because I am more concerned about others' perceptions.
3.
I habitually close my eyes tightly and pinch or squeeze my skin to truly confirm where I am or simply to verify that I am indeed engaged in an activity.
4.
I often experience stomach discomfort; when I get nervous, my stomach feels uneasy, and now when I am anxious, I tend to pick at my hands or rub my hands together or squat up and down.
These habits put a certain amount of pressure on me, and combined with other stressors, I have become prone to tears.
Although I can laugh and chat at school, I feel a sense of emptiness afterward, and when I am alone, I start to feel sad.
When I cry, I experience a feeling of pressure in my head, tightness in my neck muscles, and I become very tense, often squatting up and down with my legs, and sometimes pulling my hair to calm down (these are all subjective feelings that only occur when I cry).
After crying, I enter a state of numbness where thoughts of self-harm, like cutting my wrists or jumping off a building, arise, but I do not perceive these thoughts as painful.
Most importantly, while seeking help, I also have the thought, "I want to be sick and take medication." At the same time, I reject the help I seek.

Hima, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/03/25

Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry

Hello, netizen: Although you may not necessarily be ill, these situations can indeed cause significant distress in your life.
It is advisable to seek psychological therapy and discuss with a therapist how to manage these circumstances.
If you are unsure where to find resources, you can contact the community mental health center in your city or county.
If you are still in school, you might consider speaking with a counseling advisor.
Dr.
Wu En-Liang

Reply Date: 2021/03/25

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a complex mix of emotional sensitivity and anxiety, which can be incredibly overwhelming. Your description of various habits and sensitivities, such as being overly aware of smells, sounds, and physical sensations, suggests that you may be dealing with heightened sensory processing, which is often seen in individuals with anxiety disorders or sensory processing issues. It’s important to understand that these feelings and behaviors are not uncommon, and many people struggle with similar challenges.

Firstly, your sensitivity to certain stimuli, like the smell of hands or swallowing sounds, can be linked to a heightened state of awareness or anxiety. This can lead to compulsive behaviors, such as the need to wash your hands frequently or avoid certain situations where these stimuli are present. This kind of sensitivity can create a cycle of anxiety, where the anticipation of discomfort leads to avoidance behaviors, which in turn can exacerbate feelings of isolation and sadness.

The emotional struggles you describe, including crying spells and feelings of emptiness, are also significant. It’s common for individuals who experience high levels of anxiety or emotional sensitivity to feel overwhelmed by their emotions. The physical symptoms you mention, such as tightness in the neck and stomach discomfort, are often manifestations of anxiety. When we are anxious, our bodies react in various ways, which can include muscle tension and gastrointestinal distress.

Your desire to seek help while simultaneously feeling resistant to it is also a common experience. Many people fear the stigma associated with mental health issues or worry that they will not be understood. However, reaching out for support is a crucial step in managing your emotional health. Counseling can provide a safe space to explore your feelings and develop coping strategies. A mental health professional can help you understand the underlying causes of your sensitivities and emotional responses, and work with you to create a personalized plan for managing them.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one effective approach that can help you reframe negative thought patterns and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Mindfulness practices can also be beneficial, as they encourage you to stay present and reduce the overwhelming feelings associated with anxiety. Techniques such as deep breathing, grounding exercises, and progressive muscle relaxation can help you manage physical symptoms of anxiety and create a sense of calm.

It’s also important to address the thoughts of self-harm or suicide that you mentioned. These thoughts can be a sign of severe emotional distress, and it’s vital to take them seriously. If you ever feel overwhelmed by these thoughts, please reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional immediately. You are not alone, and there are people who care and want to help you through this difficult time.

In summary, your experiences of emotional sensitivity and anxiety are valid and deserve attention. Seeking professional help can provide you with the tools and support you need to navigate these challenges. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help, and taking that step can lead to a path of healing and understanding. You are not defined by your struggles, and with the right support, you can find ways to manage your emotions and live a fulfilling life.

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