Suicidal thoughts, negative thinking, and anxiety?
I have had suicidal thoughts since around the second semester of sixth grade.
At that time, I wanted to let go of a boy I had a crush on for a long time, and I cried almost every night (along with some other symptoms).
Additionally, I was being discussed privately by others (similar to verbal bullying), and the teachers didn’t really believe me.
I felt quite sad about it.
I think I have come to terms with it now (or at least I hope so).
I have reconciled with that girl, although I still feel stressed sometimes due to exams.
However, I don’t feel like there’s much that can make me sad anymore, but I’m not very happy either.
It seems that ever since that incident (letting go), I still have suicidal thoughts.
I constantly think about images of my own death.
Recently, my sleep schedule has been a bit reversed; I can’t sleep at night and even when I want to, I can’t.
I have considered going to a mental health clinic, but I don’t want my family to know that I want to go or what I’m thinking, so I’m afraid to say anything.
If I tell them, they will almost certainly ask why I have such thoughts.
I don’t want to explain that I previously thought about methods of suicide, like jumping off a building.
A few days ago, I suddenly remembered that there is borax at home, and I looked it up online; I found out that consuming about 5 grams could be lethal.
I had a bold thought about whether I should add some borax to my food or drink so that I could die.
But I wouldn’t dare to jump off a building or use borax.
However, I know that I could do it anytime I wanted.
I don’t know if I should just continue to live through each day feeling this way or if I should just end it.
I also know that suicide is not good, and I understand the phrases about how beautiful the world is, but I feel those words are not very helpful.
It feels like they go in one ear and out the other.
Zi Ning, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/02/06
Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry
Hello, Zining: If you are constantly immersed in thoughts of suicide, it may be a symptom of depression.
Past negative events can affect your current mood.
Symptoms and thoughts related to depression can often improve with appropriate treatment interventions, so please cherish your life and bravely seek help.
If possible, I recommend communicating openly with your family to help them understand your struggles and accompany you to seek professional assistance.
Reply Date: 2023/02/06
More Info
It sounds like you are going through an incredibly challenging time, and I want to acknowledge the pain and confusion you are experiencing. Suicidal thoughts can be overwhelming and distressing, and it's important to understand that you are not alone in feeling this way. Many people struggle with similar thoughts, especially during difficult periods in their lives, such as adolescence, when emotions can be particularly intense.
From what you've shared, it seems that your feelings of sadness and thoughts of self-harm have been ongoing, stemming from experiences of bullying and emotional distress. It's understandable that these experiences can leave a lasting impact, and even when you feel you've moved on from a specific situation, the underlying feelings of sadness or hopelessness may still linger. This is not uncommon, and it can be a sign that you may benefit from professional support.
You mentioned that you sometimes feel pressure from academic responsibilities, which can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and sadness. It's crucial to recognize that stress, especially from school, can significantly affect mental health. When combined with past trauma, it can create a cycle of negative thoughts and feelings that are hard to break.
It's also concerning that you have thoughts about self-harm and have researched methods of doing so. This indicates a serious level of distress that should not be taken lightly. While you may feel that you understand the value of life and the beauty of the world, the weight of your feelings can sometimes overshadow those thoughts. It's essential to reach out for help, even if it feels daunting.
You mentioned hesitance to talk to your family about your feelings. This is a common concern among many young people, as they fear misunderstanding or judgment. However, it’s important to find someone you can trust to talk about what you’re going through. This could be a friend, a teacher, or a mental health professional. If you feel comfortable, seeking help from a mental health clinic or counselor can provide you with the support you need to navigate these feelings.
Therapy can be a safe space to explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment. A mental health professional can help you develop coping strategies to manage your emotions and thoughts more effectively. They can also assist you in understanding the root causes of your feelings and help you work through them.
In addition to professional help, there are some self-care strategies you might consider. Engaging in activities that you enjoy, practicing mindfulness or meditation, and maintaining a routine can help create a sense of stability in your life. Physical activity, even something as simple as a walk, can also improve your mood and reduce feelings of anxiety.
Remember, it's okay to ask for help, and doing so is a sign of strength, not weakness. You deserve support and care as you navigate these difficult feelings. If you ever feel that your thoughts of self-harm become overwhelming, please reach out to a crisis hotline or emergency services immediately. Your life is valuable, and there are people who want to help you through this.
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