the Rise of Mental Health Issues in Modern Society

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Hello, doctor.
I'm back to visit the Taiwan e-Hospital, a community for patients like me.
Why is it that despite the continuous advancement of technology and society, there are more and more individuals suffering from psychosomatic disorders? Furthermore, some people, upon learning that someone has a mental health issue, label them as crazy or a monster? To be honest, I don't want to be here.
Besides wanting to know the recent concerns of fellow patients, I am also dealing with some difficult issues in my life! I want to consult with a doctor or psychologist to avoid regretting it later! I'm not the type to get impatient with a little problem and seek advice.
Instead, I've been holding these feelings inside for quite some time! I really don't know if the Taiwan e-Hospital platform has a system to analyze patient information for tracking disease progression or to avoid redundant questions.
I understand that the same question shouldn't be asked repeatedly, but since I'm unsure if your system has this feature, I have to type out my inquiry again.
Currently, I am still a national exam candidate, but I am working part-time and hardly studying at all.
The effectiveness of my studying is poor due to my work commitments, but I can't stop working to earn money! I developed psychosomatic disorders before I turned 20 while serving in the military, and after my mother passed away in 2007, my condition worsened.
A doctor at a certain hospital diagnosed me with schizophrenia, though it was not clearly stated.
I've been on medication ever since.
During this process, I faced many hardships, with some people adding to my struggles while others helped me.
This support has allowed me to return to work and become somewhat more stable, preventing me from being dependent on my family.
I'm not here to recount history.
As a child, I did many hurtful things due to my lack of understanding and even bullied classmates.
Later, I made enemies, and they influenced some teachers and classmates to bully me, which made me increasingly reclusive.
I have no friends, only family members I know.
I don't want to meet new people for fear of being used or bullied again.
After missing my psychiatric medication for the third time, perhaps due to changes in the weather becoming rainy or cold, I started having nightmares about being bullied again! I began to fantasize about getting revenge on those who bullied me! Additionally, my mother's death from cancer was orchestrated by my enemies, which fueled my desire to crush those people! During the time I missed my medication, I thought a lot...
a lot...
a lot...
about how I had also wronged others and considered letting it all go.
I also thought about getting revenge on those who wouldn't leave me alone.
However, every time I think I deserve this, I realize my mother is the one who truly suffered! When I think about avenging my mother against those who bullied her, I feel that I must take their lives to find peace! I really don't want to go down the wrong path! My mother wouldn't want this either.
Revenge won't bring you happiness! It seems that it doesn't work for me! I have contemplated that revenge might bring happiness, but in the end, it would only lead to my own destruction.
I've imagined many hypothetical scenarios.
Last time, my psychiatrist arranged for a psychologist to meet with me, but I felt like it was a setup! My enemies once bribed a psychiatrist at a certain hospital to tamper with my medication, so I switched hospitals and psychiatrists.
In middle school, besides being bullied by teachers and classmates, I failed a psychological test and was guided by a counselor, but that counselor sided with the bullies and bullied me and my classmates as well! This made it impossible for me to respect the counselor at all! Now, my enemies who harmed me, along with their relatives who harmed my mother, have made me feel like a street rat, being pointed at by others, labeled as crazy...
and facing stigmatization.
Even if I occasionally act abnormally, I can sometimes recognize my own symptoms.
They claim they haven't done anything wrong, that they didn't harm anyone, but they were the ones who started it! When counseling resources and most people align with their malicious forces, my path will only become more skewed! In the end, seeking revenge and killing leads to the stigmatization of mental illness...
I have thought about the final outcome, that due to the difficulty of reforming, it might end in execution.

Jason, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/01/31

Dr. Tang Jiahong reply Psychiatry

Hello.
Based on the information you provided, it may be beneficial for you to find a trusted physician to discuss the impact of perceived enemies on your well-being and explore treatment options for your mental and physical health conditions.
Perhaps after a more in-depth discussion with your current physician or after taking medication to alleviate feelings of paranoia, you may realize that your doctor is not compromised.
This could help you resolve the emotional turmoil caused by your perceived adversaries, allowing you to focus on improving your life.
I also advise against taking harmful actions towards yourself or others, as even without any real conflict, societal mechanisms will impose restrictions that could make such paths unviable.
Wishing you all the best.
Tang Chia-Hung

Reply Date: 2023/01/31

More Info

The rise of mental health issues in modern society is a complex phenomenon influenced by various factors, including societal changes, technological advancements, and cultural perceptions. As we navigate through an increasingly fast-paced and interconnected world, the prevalence of mental health disorders, such as anxiety, depression, and stress-related conditions, has become more pronounced, particularly among younger populations.

One significant factor contributing to the rise in mental health issues is the overwhelming pressure that individuals, especially young adults, face in their daily lives. The expectations to excel academically, maintain a social life, and secure a stable job can create a perfect storm of stress and anxiety. For instance, students often juggle part-time jobs while studying, leading to burnout and a sense of inadequacy when they struggle to meet these demands. The pressure to perform well in exams and the fear of failure can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and depression, as seen in the experiences shared by many young individuals.

Moreover, the role of technology cannot be overlooked. While advancements in technology have made communication easier, they have also contributed to a culture of comparison and competition. Social media platforms often portray idealized versions of life, leading individuals to feel inadequate when comparing themselves to others. This constant exposure to curated content can foster feelings of loneliness and isolation, even in a digitally connected world. The fear of missing out (FOMO) can further exacerbate anxiety, as individuals feel compelled to keep up with their peers.

Cultural perceptions of mental health also play a crucial role in how individuals experience and respond to mental health issues. In many societies, mental health disorders are still stigmatized, leading to feelings of shame and isolation among those affected. The fear of being labeled as "crazy" or "weak" can prevent individuals from seeking help, exacerbating their conditions. This stigma can create a vicious cycle where individuals suffer in silence, leading to more severe mental health issues over time.

In your case, it seems that you are grappling with a multitude of challenges, including the pressure of academic performance, the impact of past trauma, and the stigma surrounding mental health. It is essential to recognize that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Engaging with mental health professionals, such as therapists or counselors, can provide you with the tools and support needed to navigate these challenges. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), for instance, is an effective treatment for anxiety and depression, helping individuals reframe negative thought patterns and develop coping strategies.

Additionally, building a support network of friends, family, or support groups can be invaluable. Sharing your experiences with others who understand can alleviate feelings of isolation and provide a sense of belonging. It is also crucial to practice self-care, which can include regular physical activity, mindfulness practices, and hobbies that bring you joy. These activities can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being.

In conclusion, the rise of mental health issues in modern society is a multifaceted problem that requires a comprehensive approach. By addressing the societal pressures, technological influences, and cultural stigmas surrounding mental health, we can create a more supportive environment for those struggling with mental health disorders. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and seeking help is a vital step toward healing and recovery.

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