Managing Anxiety and Insomnia: When to Seek Psychiatric Help

Anxiety disorder and insomnia?

Hello, I have been diagnosed with anxiety disorder, and my insomnia has recently become more severe than before.
I often feel anxious and have palpitations, and sometimes I even experience panic.
I frequently feel nauseous, dizzy, or have trembling hands, and I sometimes feel like I can't breathe.
Is this a recurrence of my condition? It seems worse than before.
Should I see a psychiatrist for an evaluation? I recently visited a family medicine clinic, but the doctor only mentioned that I am under a lot of stress and need to relax, stating that there is not much to worry about.
They said my dizziness is benign rather than malignant, and since I am still young, they are hesitant to prescribe sleep medication.

Given my experiences, I am uncertain whether I am genuinely ill and need to seek treatment, but I constantly feel emotionally unstable and anxious, which is very uncomfortable.
I try to distract myself with other activities, but it has little effect.
I would appreciate any advice you could provide.
Thank you!

Mo, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/02/23

Dr. Qiu Junda reply Psychiatry

Hello.
The physical symptoms you described, including insomnia, fall within the range of anxiety disorders.
Sometimes, factors such as stress and the environment can affect the severity of the symptoms.
I recommend that you take the time to consult a psychiatrist.
If you have concerns about medication, you can inform the doctor to see if there are non-pharmacological approaches available.
Additionally, you can utilize the 1925 mental health hotline for similar online counseling to help alleviate your distress.

Reply Date: 2023/02/23

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a significant increase in anxiety and insomnia, which can be quite distressing. Given your history of anxiety disorder and the symptoms you are currently facing—such as feelings of panic, nausea, dizziness, trembling, and difficulty breathing—it's important to take these signs seriously.
Anxiety disorders can manifest in various ways, and your symptoms suggest that you may be experiencing a resurgence of your anxiety condition, possibly in a more severe form than before. The feelings of panic and physical symptoms like dizziness and nausea are common in anxiety disorders, particularly in panic attacks. These symptoms can be debilitating and may interfere with your daily life, making it difficult to function normally.

While your primary care physician has suggested that your symptoms are related to stress and has recommended relaxation techniques, it is crucial to recognize that sometimes, these approaches may not be sufficient, especially if your symptoms are worsening. If you find that your anxiety is escalating and impacting your quality of life, seeking help from a psychiatrist or a mental health professional is a wise decision.

Psychiatrists can provide a comprehensive evaluation of your mental health, which may include discussing your symptoms in detail, your medical history, and any previous treatments you have undergone. They can also help differentiate between anxiety disorders and other potential mental health issues, ensuring you receive an accurate diagnosis.
In terms of treatment, there are various options available for managing anxiety and insomnia. These may include psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which has been shown to be effective in treating anxiety disorders. CBT helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to anxiety. Additionally, medication may be prescribed if deemed necessary. Common medications for anxiety include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like Zoloft (sertraline) or benzodiazepines like Xanax (alprazolam) for short-term relief.
It's understandable that you may be hesitant to take sleep medications, especially if you are concerned about potential side effects. However, a psychiatrist can help you weigh the benefits and risks of medication and may suggest alternatives or adjunct therapies that can help improve your sleep without relying solely on medication.

Moreover, lifestyle changes can also play a significant role in managing anxiety and insomnia. Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and mindfulness practices such as meditation or yoga can help reduce anxiety levels. Establishing a consistent sleep routine and creating a calming bedtime environment can also improve sleep quality.

In summary, given the severity of your symptoms and their impact on your daily life, I strongly recommend seeking psychiatric help. A mental health professional can provide you with the support and treatment you need to manage your anxiety and insomnia effectively. Remember, you are not alone in this, and there are resources available to help you navigate through these challenging times. Take care of yourself, and I wish you the best on your journey to recovery.

Similar Q&A

Coping with Insomnia and Anxiety: When to Seek Professional Help

Hello Dr. Wang, I have been feeling very anxious lately as I prepare to graduate and enter the workforce. I am unable to concentrate, feel restless, and have been experiencing insomnia for a week. I am now very afraid of sleeping, getting less than three hours of sleep each day. ...

Dr. Wang Zhenbang reply Psychiatry
Hello: It seems that your issue has caused significant distress. I recommend seeking assistance from a professional physician. There are many ways to improve mood and sleep, and even sleep aids come in various types. You can discuss with your doctor to determine the most suitable...

Overcoming Anxiety and Insomnia: Seeking Help for Mental Health Struggles

I have recently been experiencing insomnia, often overthinking before bed. I have been contemplating leaving a job that everyone praises, and I worry about my friends and family’s opinions regarding my unstable employment situation. After finally falling asleep, I wake up after o...

Dr. Ding Shuyan reply Psychiatry
Hello, anxiety and insomnia are very common issues and are quite manageable. If they are short-term and transitional, you can handle them on your own without significant impact on your life, and it may not be necessary to see a doctor. Psychological therapy or self-adjustment is ...

Understanding Anxiety and Emotional Overwhelm: When to Seek Help

Most of the time, I am almost expressionless and silent. Occasionally, I can laugh happily while chatting with friends or my boyfriend, but even a small incident can lead me to feel overwhelmed with guilt, making it difficult for me to concentrate on tasks. I get stuck in this cy...

Dr. Huang Xiaoxian reply Psychiatry
Dear Gigi, thank you for your question. You mentioned experiencing anxiety, insomnia, and emotional fluctuations. I wonder if there have been any recent stressors that have been troubling you? You mentioned psychological counseling; I recommend that you consider discussing your i...

Effective Strategies for Managing Sleep Disorders and Anxiety

Hello, doctor. Recently, a friend of mine has been having trouble sleeping. Her stressors have accumulated over a long period, and she tends to keep her issues to herself, so I only know a little about her situation. She has been seeing a psychiatrist for 2 to 3 years, primarily ...

Dr. Zhong Mingxun reply Psychiatry
For this friend, the most important thing is to provide care and companionship. Additionally, you can encourage her to seek psychotherapy, as medication treatment seems to have reached its limits. Psychotherapy can help her address the underlying issues; otherwise, she may easily...