Emotional Pain: Seeking Help for Mental Health Issues

Frequently experiencing pain?

Hello, Doctor: I apologize in advance if my writing is a bit disorganized.
I started noticing something was off when I was in eighth grade; I would suddenly cry for no reason, and my temper became very volatile, often getting inexplicably angry at others.
After ninth grade, the situation worsened, and I began having suicidal thoughts.
The frequency of my crying increased, but I would hide to avoid being discovered by those around me.
I would resort to self-harm to escape my emotions, although sometimes I still couldn't help it.
I've written many suicide notes, and I've been experiencing more frequent dizziness and headaches (I already have inner ear imbalance).
After exams, my condition improved significantly, but these symptoms resurfaced after entering high school, causing me great distress.
I've considered seeing a doctor but am unsure which specialty to consult.
I'm also afraid that I might not have any real issues and would be wasting medical resources.
I cannot afford excessively high costs, and more importantly, I don't want my family to know.
Having too many relationships has also added to my stress, and I don't want to become a burden to them.
Thank you for your help, Doctor!

aa, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/10/11

Dr. Zhang Gengjia reply Psychiatry

Dear Sir/Madam,
From your letter, it is evident that you are experiencing discomfort and distress due to both emotional and physical pressures.
Whether this is due to autonomic nervous system dysfunction requires a professional diagnosis by a physician.
1.
Facing an uncertain future, autonomic nervous system dysfunction is a common condition in modern society.
It is a chronic illness that requires long-term treatment for recovery.
2.
Autonomic nervous system dysfunction is a chronic condition characterized by episodes of exacerbation, remission, recovery, and relapse.
More than half of the patients may experience a recurrence of symptoms even after they have improved.
Due to individual differences in constitution, the appropriate treatment method may take time to determine, and it is not easy to attribute which medication is more effective.
Please be patient and cooperate with your physician.
3.
Seeking medical attention remains the best way to improve symptoms.
If you experience any discomfort, it is advisable to note the duration and frequency of the episodes and discuss them with your physician.
4.
In addition to medication and psychotherapy, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a non-invasive, anesthesia-free, highly safe treatment option that does not require hospitalization.
It can improve anxiety and depressive moods.
For patients with treatment-resistant depression or poor medication response, rTMS treatment has shown significant improvement in depressive symptoms.
Our clinic is open for consultations from Monday to Friday, both in the morning and afternoon.
We recommend that you consider visiting the clinic for a personal assessment of your symptoms by a physician, so that we can collaboratively discuss the best decision for you.
Wishing you mental and physical well-being.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Chang Geng-Jia
Department of Psychiatry

Reply Date: 2021/10/11

More Info

It sounds like you are going through a very challenging time, and I want to commend you for reaching out and expressing your feelings. Emotional pain can be incredibly overwhelming, and it’s important to acknowledge that what you’re experiencing is valid and deserves attention.

From your description, it seems you are experiencing a range of symptoms that could be indicative of a mental health condition, such as depression or anxiety. The sudden emotional outbursts, feelings of anger, frequent crying, and thoughts of self-harm are serious signals that your mental health is struggling. It’s not uncommon for adolescents to experience these feelings, especially during times of transition, such as moving from middle school to high school. The pressures of academic performance, social dynamics, and personal expectations can all contribute to emotional distress.

It's crucial to understand that seeking help is not a sign of weakness; rather, it is a courageous step towards healing. Many people share your concerns about the stigma surrounding mental health issues, the fear of being a burden to their families, or the worry about wasting medical resources. However, mental health is just as important as physical health, and addressing it early can prevent more severe issues down the line.

In terms of where to seek help, I recommend consulting with a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. These specialists are trained to assess and treat emotional and psychological issues. If you’re concerned about the cost, many communities offer mental health services on a sliding scale based on income, and some schools have counselors who can provide support at no cost. Additionally, there are hotlines and online resources that can offer immediate assistance and guidance.

You mentioned that you have been hiding your feelings and coping through self-harm, which is a concerning behavior. Self-harm often serves as a way to manage emotional pain, but it can lead to more significant issues and does not address the underlying problems. It’s essential to find healthier coping mechanisms. Techniques such as journaling, engaging in creative outlets like art or music, practicing mindfulness or meditation, and talking to trusted friends can be beneficial.
Moreover, it’s important to communicate with someone you trust about what you’re going through. This could be a friend, a teacher, or a family member. You don’t have to go through this alone, and sharing your feelings can often lighten the burden.

Lastly, remember that recovery is a journey, and it’s okay to take it one step at a time. You are not alone in this, and there are people and resources available to help you navigate through these difficult emotions. Please consider reaching out for professional help, as it can make a significant difference in your life. Your mental health matters, and you deserve support and understanding.

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