Should I Seek Help from a Mental Health Professional?

I'm not sure whether to see a psychiatrist or psychologist?

Hello, Doctor.
I have a question as stated in the title, and this matter has been troubling me.
It might be a bit lengthy, so I apologize in advance.

Background: I started having slight suicidal thoughts around elementary school.
Five years ago, the frequency increased, and I engaged in self-harm a few times (only superficial bleeding, not deep cuts, and I am not addicted to it).
There was a period when I experienced weight loss (from 54 kg to 47 kg).
I had specific plans and prepared tools but did not go through with them.
Now, I simply wake up every day wondering how I am still alive.
I also worry about my family.
A few days ago, I had an intuition that I might die suddenly and contemplated how to disguise a suicide as an accident to avoid my family being labeled as survivors of a suicide.

I have an introverted personality and lack self-confidence, which makes me dislike social interactions.
I have very few friends.
In elementary and middle school, I experienced verbal bullying, but looking back, I don't feel much about it and have even forgotten, likely due to my lack of self-confidence.
After graduating from college, I avoided submitting resumes and interviews for a year.
Later, due to family encouragement and a desire to improve my personality, I started working in sales.
Question: I don't have major issues when interacting with clients, but after returning home, I fall into a strong sense of self-loathing and feel chest tightness and fatigue.
My throat feels a bit tight.
Every morning, I wake up feeling very tired, even if I haven't stayed up late.
Although I am used to staying up late, it's not that I can't sleep; I simply have a habit of going to bed late.
Occasionally, I find myself unable to finish eating halfway through a meal, but I force myself to finish.
I feel like I have many problems, but I'm uncertain whether I should see a doctor.
My thoughts are not very organized.
I apologize for the lengthy explanation.
Thank you, Doctor.

yu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/08/08

Dr. Qiu Junda reply Psychiatry

Hello.
The content indicates that there are indeed mental and physical disturbances affecting work and daily life.
It is recommended to seek treatment at a mental health clinic for improvement.
If you are still hesitant, you can first utilize the 1925 mental health hotline for counseling and support, which should be helpful.

Reply Date: 2022/08/08

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. The experiences you've described, including self-harm, suicidal thoughts, and feelings of self-loathing, are serious and indicate that you may benefit from professional help. Seeking assistance from a mental health professional can be a crucial step in addressing these issues and improving your overall well-being.

From what you've shared, it seems that you have been grappling with negative thoughts and feelings for quite some time. The fact that you have experienced suicidal thoughts and self-harm is particularly concerning. These behaviors often signal that someone is in emotional distress and may need support to navigate their feelings and find healthier coping mechanisms. It's important to understand that you are not alone in this; many people face similar struggles, and there is help available.

You mentioned that you have a history of bullying and low self-esteem, which can significantly impact mental health. Bullying can lead to feelings of worthlessness and isolation, making it difficult to form connections with others. This can create a cycle where the lack of social support exacerbates feelings of depression and anxiety. Engaging with a therapist can help you process these past experiences and develop strategies to build self-esteem and improve your interpersonal skills.

Additionally, your feelings of fatigue and chest tightness could be manifestations of anxiety or depression. These physical symptoms are not uncommon and can be addressed through therapy and possibly medication if deemed necessary by a healthcare provider. A mental health professional can help you explore these symptoms further and determine the best course of action.

It's also worth noting that you mentioned feeling a sense of dread about your future and contemplating how to disguise a potential suicide as an accident. This is a critical point that should not be taken lightly. If you ever feel that you might act on these thoughts, it is essential to seek immediate help. Contacting a crisis hotline or going to the nearest emergency room can provide you with the support you need in those moments.

You expressed uncertainty about whether to seek help, but it's important to remember that reaching out for support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Mental health professionals are trained to help individuals who are struggling with thoughts of self-harm and suicidal ideation. They can provide a safe space for you to express your feelings without judgment and work with you to develop coping strategies.

In conclusion, I strongly encourage you to seek help from a mental health professional. You deserve support and guidance as you navigate these difficult feelings. Therapy can provide you with tools to manage your emotions, improve your self-esteem, and ultimately lead to a more fulfilling life. Remember, you are not alone, and there is hope for a brighter future. Please take care of yourself and consider reaching out for the help you need.

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