Do I Need to See a Doctor for My Anxiety and Doubts?

Q: Do I Need to See a Doctor for My Anxiety and Doubts?

Hello everyone： I believe seeking medical attention is a good idea! Taiwan has abundant mental health resources and the costs are low, so there's really no need to hesitate in seeking treatment. <br>It's always beneficial to hear from experts, especially since these anxieties hav

Do I need to seek medical attention for this?

Hello, Doctor: I am a high school student, and about six months ago, I started to doubt whether I had done something wrong.
For example, every time I leave a store, I question whether I have stolen something, and then I check my pockets or bag to see if there are any items that shouldn't be there.
Of course, my pockets and bag are always normal in the end, but I still feel scared and continue to doubt myself.
These thoughts persist until the next worry overshadows the previous one.
Now, I am very afraid to go shopping because as soon as I reach the store entrance, I start to feel anxious and my heart races.

Another issue is related to the internet; I am very afraid to use forums, surveys, or any social media platforms that allow comments because I always worry that I might have written something inappropriate that could lead to criminal liability or being sued.
Currently, I try to avoid these websites as much as possible, but if I accidentally browse a site with commenting features, even if I don't remember writing anything, I can't trust my memory.
I still feel very anxious and keep checking my browsing history, including this website, and I am still questioning whether I have written something inappropriate.
Actually, I have sought help from my school's counseling office before, but my situation did not improve, and I felt hurt when the counselor scolded me.
So recently, I have been considering whether I should seek help from a psychiatrist or psychologist at a hospital.
On one hand, I feel that my situation is not severe enough to take resources away from those who need them more.
On the other hand, my previous experience makes me very fearful.
Thank you, Doctor.

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/03/15

Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry

Hello everyone: I believe seeking medical attention is a good idea! Taiwan has abundant mental health resources and the costs are low, so there's really no need to hesitate in seeking treatment.
It's always beneficial to hear from experts, especially since these anxieties have significantly impacted daily life.
Dr.
Wu Enliang.

Reply Date: 2022/03/15

More Info

It's understandable that you're feeling anxious and uncertain about whether to seek professional help for your mental health concerns. From your description, it seems like you're experiencing symptoms that could be indicative of an anxiety disorder, particularly obsessive-compulsive tendencies. The thoughts you're having—such as doubting whether you've stolen something or worrying about what you've written online—are common in conditions like Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). These intrusive thoughts can lead to significant distress and can interfere with your daily life, as you've noted with your avoidance of shopping and online interactions.

Firstly, it's important to acknowledge that your feelings are valid. Many people experience similar thoughts and fears, and seeking help is a proactive step towards managing these feelings. The fact that you've already reached out to your school's counseling office shows that you're taking your mental health seriously, which is commendable. However, if you feel that the support you received was not sufficient, it may be beneficial to explore other options, such as seeing a psychiatrist or a psychologist.

In the realm of mental health, there is no "right" or "wrong" time to seek help. If your symptoms are causing you distress or impacting your daily functioning—such as your ability to shop or engage in online activities—then it is entirely appropriate to seek further assistance. Mental health resources are available for everyone, and your concerns are just as important as anyone else's. Remember, mental health professionals are trained to help individuals at all levels of distress, and they can provide you with the tools and strategies to manage your anxiety effectively.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective treatments for anxiety disorders, including OCD. CBT focuses on identifying and challenging negative thought patterns and behaviors. A therapist can work with you to develop coping strategies and help you gradually confront the situations that trigger your anxiety, which can lead to a reduction in symptoms over time. Additionally, if necessary, a psychiatrist may discuss medication options that can help alleviate your anxiety symptoms.

It's also worth noting that your concerns about taking resources away from others are common among individuals considering mental health treatment. However, mental health care is designed to be inclusive, and everyone deserves support. By seeking help, you are not only taking care of yourself but also contributing to a culture that values mental health and encourages others to seek help when they need it.

In conclusion, based on your experiences and the distress you're feeling, it would be beneficial to consult with a mental health professional. They can provide a thorough assessment and help you determine the best course of action for your situation. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and you deserve to feel better. Don't hesitate to reach out for the support you need.

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Hello, everyone: I don't think we need to worry about this matter. Dr. Wu Enliang.