Anxiety and Depression: A High School Student's Struggle

I'm not sure what happened?

Hello, doctor.
I am a high school student, and I feel that most of the time I am relatively normal and can handle my academic pressure.
However, I often feel anxious in social situations and don't understand how to interact with others.
I fear offending people, so I tend to go out of my way to please them.
When I feel ignored or disliked by others, especially friends, I start to panic, even though I always appear normal in front of others.
Whenever I am alone, I begin to feel that my existence is meaningless, and I sometimes have thoughts of wanting to die.
I experience low moods almost every day, often feeling like crying, and sometimes I do cry.
I struggle to communicate with others through messages or social media.
I feel particularly sad when I can't relate to the topics of conversation, but after a while, I feel better.
This cycle repeats daily.
I also feel inadequate and unloved, and sometimes I wish I could just disappear.
I often feel like I have to act crazy or silly just to feel happy.
I don't dare to talk to others about this, fearing they might think I'm mentally ill, and there’s hardly anyone I can confide in.
If I do share, I might just be told that I'm overthinking things, but I really find it hard not to care about what others think.
I feel that depression and anxiety don't quite describe my feelings.
Am I overthinking, or do I really need to see a doctor? But I’m also hesitant to talk to my family about it.
What should I do?

Yougurt, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/10/22

Dr. Qiu Junda reply Psychiatry

Hello.
The text reveals long-term negative emotions.
Regardless of whether it reaches the level of a disorder, it has caused distress, so seeking improvement is advisable.
If visiting a doctor is inconvenient (seeing a doctor does not necessarily mean there is an illness), you can also call the Ministry of Health and Welfare's hotline at 1925 for similar online counseling services, which should be beneficial.

Reply Date: 2022/10/22

More Info

It's clear from your message that you're experiencing a complex mix of emotions and thoughts that can be overwhelming. As a high school student, navigating the pressures of academics, social interactions, and personal identity can be particularly challenging. Your feelings of anxiety in social situations, fear of rejection, and episodes of sadness are significant and deserve attention.

Firstly, it’s important to recognize that what you’re experiencing is not uncommon among adolescents. Many young people face similar struggles, particularly with anxiety and depression. The pressure to fit in, maintain friendships, and perform academically can lead to feelings of inadequacy and loneliness. The fact that you feel the need to please others at the expense of your own well-being is a common trait in individuals who struggle with anxiety. This behavior, often referred to as "people-pleasing," can create a cycle of stress and dissatisfaction, as it may lead you to neglect your own needs and feelings.

Your description of feeling "normal" most of the time but experiencing significant emotional lows when alone is also noteworthy. This fluctuation in mood can be indicative of underlying anxiety or depressive disorders. The thoughts of worthlessness and the desire to disappear are serious and should not be taken lightly. These feelings can be symptoms of depression, which can manifest in various ways, including persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, and difficulty in social interactions.

It's commendable that you are seeking to understand your feelings better. However, it’s essential to approach this with the right support. While you may feel hesitant to discuss your feelings with family or friends, consider that speaking with a mental health professional can provide you with a safe space to explore these emotions without judgment. A therapist or counselor can help you develop coping strategies, improve your self-esteem, and address the anxiety that arises in social situations.

You mentioned that you fear being perceived as "crazy" if you share your feelings. It's crucial to understand that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Mental health issues are just as valid as physical health issues, and addressing them is vital for your overall well-being. A mental health professional can help you differentiate between normal stress and anxiety or depression that may require treatment.

In addition to professional help, consider engaging in activities that promote emotional well-being. Journaling can be a powerful tool for processing your thoughts and feelings. It allows you to express yourself freely and can help you identify patterns in your emotions. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation or deep-breathing exercises, can also be beneficial in managing anxiety.

Lastly, try to cultivate a support network, even if it feels challenging. This could be friends, family members, or even online communities where you can share your experiences without fear of judgment. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and there are people who care and want to help.

In summary, your feelings of anxiety and depression are significant and warrant attention. Seeking help from a mental health professional can provide you with the tools to manage these emotions effectively. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help, and taking that step can lead to a healthier, happier you.

Similar Q&A

Struggling with Anxiety and Dark Thoughts: A High School Student's Journey

I am currently a senior in high school. Since we were divided into classes in the first year, my class has become very noisy, not just because of the increasing pressure as we approach the university entrance exams. Since the first year, I have often felt very anxious in this ext...

Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, Ty: I remember when I was in high school, I also felt a lot of pressure from my studies, and it was quite similar. Sometimes, the journey of life can be very frustrating, but you will get better, just like I did. When a person is under a lot of stress, they may feel irrita...

Understanding Depression: A High School Student's Struggle and Solutions

Hello, doctor. I am a high school student and I'm unsure if I am suffering from depression. Could you please help me with how to improve my situation? In middle school, I had a very carefree school life, but I also faced significant pressure from the entrance exams. A few mo...

Dr. Chen Wenke reply Psychiatry
Hello, 隆: The first year of high school is always filled with expectations regarding romantic relationships. I believe you must have been very happy at some point, but the world of emotions often comes with many disappointments. After reading your letter, I can sense your persi...

Overcoming Social Anxiety: A High School Student's Struggle

I am currently a sophomore in high school. I've been experiencing these issues since I was in seventh grade. Whenever I interact with strangers, regardless of the number of people, I feel like they are judging me, which makes me very anxious and uncomfortable. I experience d...

Dr. Song Chengxian reply Psychiatry
Hello, classmate: Your current condition is no longer just simple nervousness and shyness; it has become a psychological issue. I recommend that you seek an appointment with a psychiatrist as soon as possible. I believe you can overcome this low period soon! Sincerely, Dr. Song.

Coping with Adjustment Disorder: A High School Student's Struggle

I am a high school student who originally attended a vocational school but later transferred to a technical high school because I couldn't adapt. However, I found that I was gradually becoming unhappy at school. I can't quite describe the reasons for my unhappiness; I o...

Dr. Wu Menghuan reply Psychiatry
Hello: It sounds like your condition may be more than just an adjustment disorder. It is advisable to have a physician evaluate the possibility of a depressive disorder. I recommend that you go to a child and adolescent psychiatry clinic for assessment and treatment, accompanied ...