Are You Overthinking? High Sensitivity and Anxiety - Psychiatry

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It sounds like you are experiencing a challenging time with your emotions and mental health, particularly in relation to anxiety and sensitivity. From what you've described, it seems that you are caught in a cycle of overthinking and heightened sensitivity, which can be exhausting and overwhelming. Let's break down some of the key aspects of your situation and explore ways to better understand and manage your feelings.

Firstly, it's important to recognize that high sensitivity is a personality trait that affects how individuals perceive and react to their environment. Highly sensitive people (HSPs) often process sensory information more deeply and can become easily overwhelmed by stimuli, including emotional situations. This trait can lead to heightened emotional responses, making it difficult to cope with stressors, such as academic pressure or interpersonal conflicts.
Your experience of feeling anxious and panicked, especially when faced with stress, is not uncommon among individuals who are highly sensitive. The physiological symptoms you mentioned, such as heart palpitations and sleep disturbances, are typical manifestations of anxiety. It's good to hear that you sought help from a mental health professional and received a diagnosis of adjustment disorder with anxiety and depression. This diagnosis indicates that your emotional responses are linked to specific stressors in your life, which is a crucial step in understanding your situation.

The medication prescribed to you, a calming agent, can help alleviate some of the immediate symptoms of anxiety. However, it is essential to combine medication with therapeutic approaches, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or mindfulness practices. These therapies can help you identify negative thought patterns and develop healthier coping strategies. For instance, CBT can assist you in recognizing when you are overthinking and provide tools to challenge those thoughts, allowing you to reframe your perspective.

You mentioned that you often feel mentally exhausted from trying to maintain a positive mindset. This effort can be draining, especially if it feels forced or unnatural. It's important to allow yourself to experience a range of emotions without judgment. Instead of striving for constant positivity, consider practicing self-compassion. Acknowledge that it's okay to feel anxious or overwhelmed at times, and give yourself permission to take breaks when needed.

Additionally, reaching out to friends and family for support is a positive step. However, it might be beneficial to explore structured support, such as therapy or support groups, where you can express your feelings in a safe environment. Sometimes, discussing your experiences with others who understand can provide relief and validation.

You also mentioned that you often find yourself searching online for information about mental health issues. While educating yourself can be helpful, it can also lead to increased anxiety if you find yourself fixating on worst-case scenarios. Instead of searching for answers online, consider focusing on evidence-based resources or consulting with a mental health professional who can provide accurate information tailored to your situation.

In summary, it seems that you are navigating a complex interplay of high sensitivity and anxiety. Recognizing your sensitivity as a trait rather than a flaw can be empowering. By combining medication with therapeutic approaches, practicing self-compassion, and seeking structured support, you can work towards managing your anxiety more effectively. Remember, progress takes time, and it's okay to seek help along the way. You are not alone in this journey, and there are resources available to support you.