Should I Return to Psychiatric Care? Navigating Mental Health Challenges

Q: Should I Return to Psychiatric Care? Navigating Mental Health Challenges

Hello, internet user： Depression is a treatable condition that is prone to relapse. <br>It is advisable for you to seek a follow-up appointment promptly if you are experiencing signs of relapse. <br>Dr. <br>Wu Enliang

I'm unsure whether to continue follow-up appointments with the psychiatrist?

Hello, Doctor.
I apologize for bothering you.
I grew up in an unhealthy family environment, experiencing long-term domestic violence, my mother’s depression and suicide, and during middle school, due to significant changes at home, I became very quiet and eccentric.
I was bullied by my classmates for three years.
Because of this, I developed a habit of imagining that I had many friends around me when I was alone, or picturing myself in various places having happy conversations, just like chatting with regular people.
I would feel as if someone was responding to me, and I would reply during those times.
I felt very desperate and realized that I might be unwell.
Later, when I started working, I felt a bit better and was willing to make friends and re-engage with people.
However, I found myself suppressing my feelings and having a hard time trusting others.
I became very afraid of saying the wrong thing and offending someone.
If a good friend suddenly had a change in attitude, I would start to blame myself for doing something wrong, often doubting whether I was being isolated or disliked.
I frequently felt that when they gathered to chat, they might be talking badly about me.
Eventually, I started dating a boyfriend, and that’s when my real nightmare began.
He had violent tendencies.
Although we were together for a short time, his presence brought back the shadows of my past experiences with domestic violence and bullying.
My anxiety worsened, making it hard to breathe, and I would shake and feel very depressed.
I even resorted to self-harm by cutting my wrist with a knife.
That was when I decided to see a doctor.
This was just last year.
My mental state seemed very unhealthy, and the doctor diagnosed me with multiple comorbid symptoms, recommending medication for control.
After taking the medication for a while, I felt much better and consistently attended follow-up appointments for several months.
However, I eventually felt like I was okay and stopped seeing the doctor.
Recently, though, my condition has started to fluctuate again, and I find myself imagining conversations with people around me, just like before.
Sometimes I feel very happy, but other times I become extremely depressed, to the point of wishing to die.
I cannot control these feelings and can only endure the discomfort.
I don’t know what to do, and I’m afraid to tell those around me about my situation because I worry it might affect them.
Doctor, should I go back to see a doctor and resume medication? My mother says it’s just me thinking I’m sick and that I don’t need to return to the doctor.

Lu Wei, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/31

Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry

Hello, internet user: Depression is a treatable condition that is prone to relapse.
It is advisable for you to seek a follow-up appointment promptly if you are experiencing signs of relapse.
Dr.
Wu Enliang

Reply Date: 2021/07/31

More Info

It sounds like you are going through a very challenging time, and I want to acknowledge the strength it takes to share your experiences. Growing up in an unhealthy family environment, dealing with bullying, and experiencing trauma can have profound effects on mental health. Your feelings of anxiety, depression, and the urge to self-harm are serious and deserve attention.

Based on what you've shared, it seems that you have made some progress in managing your mental health, especially after seeking help from a doctor and taking medication. However, it's also clear that you are experiencing a resurgence of distressing symptoms, which can be common in the journey of mental health recovery. The fluctuations in your mood and the return of intrusive thoughts and feelings suggest that you may benefit from returning to psychiatric care.

Here are some reasons why seeking help again could be beneficial:
1. Professional Support: A psychiatrist or mental health professional can provide you with the necessary support and guidance tailored to your current situation. They can reassess your symptoms, adjust your medication if needed, and help you develop coping strategies to manage your anxiety and depressive symptoms.

2. Medication Management: If you found relief from your symptoms with medication before, it may be worth exploring this option again. Sometimes, the body can become accustomed to a medication, or the initial dosage may no longer be effective. A healthcare provider can help you find the right balance.

3. Therapeutic Interventions: In addition to medication, therapy can be incredibly beneficial. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or other therapeutic modalities can help you address negative thought patterns, improve your self-esteem, and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Therapy can also provide a safe space to process past traumas and current feelings.

4. Building a Support System: It’s understandable to feel hesitant about sharing your struggles with others, but having a support system is crucial. Whether it’s friends, family, or support groups, connecting with others who understand what you’re going through can alleviate feelings of isolation.

5. Addressing Self-Stigma: It’s common to feel ashamed or guilty about mental health struggles, but it’s important to remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Your mother’s perspective may come from a place of concern, but it’s essential to prioritize your well-being. Mental health conditions are real and require appropriate care, just like any physical illness.

6. Crisis Management: If you ever feel overwhelmed or have thoughts of self-harm, it’s crucial to reach out for immediate help. This could be through a crisis hotline, a trusted friend, or a mental health professional. Your safety is the top priority.

In conclusion, I strongly encourage you to consider returning to psychiatric care. It’s okay to seek help multiple times throughout your life, especially when you notice a decline in your mental health. You deserve support and treatment that can help you navigate these challenges and work towards a healthier, happier life. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and there are people and resources available to help you.

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