Am I Experiencing Anxiety? Symptoms and Seeking Help

Does this qualify as an anxiety disorder?

Hello, doctor.
A few months ago, for unknown reasons, my relationship with my classmates deteriorated.
When I confronted them face-to-face with the teacher, they always claimed they had no issues with me, but in reality, they openly mocked me, making me afraid to speak in class.
Once, I tried to vent my emotions on a private account, but someone in that account took screenshots and shared them with the person involved (who was not on the follower list).
The involved person's friend called my family, demanding that I apologize, which made me feel betrayed that day (because the people in that account were friends I considered very close).
The day after this incident, I experienced insomnia, nausea, impulsively hitting the wall, and biting my hands.
On my day off, even though I was prepared to study, I found myself sitting in a chair, thinking about how my classmates would perceive me when I returned to school the following week.
I spent a whole hour thinking about it, during which I would involuntarily hit the table.
The following week, due to an upcoming exam, I went to school.
During self-study class, I felt inexplicably anxious, and I kept picking at my skin with my fingernails and shaking my legs.
I couldn't concentrate, even though it was a self-study period, and I almost cried but held it back.
Now, during the winter break, another classmate and I were inexplicably suspected of being informants.
At that time, I was on the MRT, and I had thoughts of wanting to escape the train compartment.
I unconsciously started picking at my hands, and when I switched to the bus, I felt like I couldn't breathe.
When I got home at night, I experienced insomnia...
Ultimately, I would like to ask the doctor, does this count as an anxiety disorder? Is it necessary for me to seek medical attention? I have thought about whether to seek medical help, but I'm afraid to tell my family.
Thank you, doctor, for reading my story and responding.

YC, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/02/09

Dr. Lin Mianzhang reply Psychiatry

Hi there! I can sense your anxiety and concerns.
Although I have previously addressed your questions, if you are still feeling worried, I strongly recommend that you seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Anxiety disorder is just a diagnosis; even if you have it, it's essential to identify the underlying causes to fundamentally improve your situation.
Moreover, the physician will need additional information to assess whether you truly have an anxiety disorder and if there are any coexisting conditions.
I still suggest that you seek professional help promptly.
Wishing you a speedy recovery!

Reply Date: 2022/02/09

More Info

It sounds like you are going through a very challenging time, and I want to acknowledge the distress and confusion you are feeling. Based on your description, it does seem that you are experiencing symptoms that could be indicative of anxiety. Anxiety can manifest in various ways, including physical symptoms (like nausea and insomnia), emotional responses (such as feeling overwhelmed or fearful), and behavioral changes (like difficulty concentrating and compulsive actions).

The situation you described, where you felt betrayed by friends and faced ridicule, can understandably lead to feelings of anxiety. Social interactions, especially in a school environment, can be particularly stressful, and it seems that the negative experiences you’ve had have compounded your feelings of unease. The physical symptoms you mentioned, such as wanting to vomit, insomnia, and the urge to self-harm, are also concerning and suggest that your anxiety may be quite severe.

It's important to recognize that anxiety is a common mental health issue, and many people experience it at different points in their lives. The symptoms you are experiencing—like racing thoughts about how others perceive you, difficulty focusing, and physical manifestations of anxiety (like nail-biting and fidgeting)—are all signs that you may benefit from professional help.

Seeking help from a mental health professional can provide you with the support and strategies you need to cope with your anxiety. A therapist can help you explore the underlying causes of your anxiety, teach you coping mechanisms, and provide a safe space for you to express your feelings. It’s also worth noting that mental health professionals are bound by confidentiality, so you can feel secure in discussing your feelings without fear of them being shared with others, including your family.

If you are worried about how to approach the topic of seeking help with your family, consider writing down your feelings or even discussing it with a trusted friend first. This can help you articulate your thoughts and feelings more clearly when you do decide to talk to your family. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness, and it’s an important step towards feeling better.

In summary, based on what you've shared, it does seem that you are experiencing anxiety, and it would be beneficial for you to seek professional help. You deserve support and guidance to navigate through this difficult time, and there are resources available to help you. Don't hesitate to reach out for help; it's a crucial step in taking care of your mental health.

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