Depression: When to Seek Help for Mental Health Issues

Depressive mood

I'm sorry to hear that you're feeling this way.
It sounds like you're experiencing significant emotional distress, possibly related to exam stress and family trauma.
The symptoms you're describing, such as palpitations, dizziness, feelings of hopelessness, loss of appetite, and difficulty concentrating, can be indicative of anxiety or depression.
The thoughts of wanting to harm yourself are concerning and should be taken seriously.
It's important to seek help from a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, who can provide a proper assessment and support.
While these feelings may be temporary, they can also indicate a more serious underlying issue that needs to be addressed.
Please consider reaching out for help.
You don't have to go through this alone.

Lin, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/03/05

Dr. Li Guanying reply Psychiatry

From your letter, it is clear that you are experiencing discomfort and distress due to both depression and stress-related issues.

1.
Facing an uncertain future, depression is a common condition in modern society.
It is a chronic illness that requires long-term treatment for recovery.

2.
Depression is characterized by episodes of exacerbation, remission, recovery, and relapse.
More than half of patients may experience a recurrence of symptoms even after they have improved.
Due to individual differences in physiology, it is important to confirm whether your situation requires medical attention.

3.
Regarding pharmacological treatment, it typically takes 4 to 6 weeks to assess the efficacy of each primary medication.
If you experience any discomfort, it is advisable to note the duration and frequency of these symptoms.

4.
In addition to medication and psychotherapy, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a non-invasive treatment that does not require anesthesia, has a high safety profile, and does not necessitate hospitalization.
It can help alleviate anxiety and depressive symptoms.
Please consider consulting with a psychiatrist.
Our clinic has outpatient services available Monday through Friday, both in the morning and afternoon.
We recommend that you come in for a personal evaluation of your symptoms, so we can collaboratively determine the best course of action for you.

Wishing you mental and physical well-being.

Reply Date: 2024/03/05

More Info

It sounds like you are going through a very challenging time, and I want to emphasize that your feelings are valid and important. When experiencing significant emotional distress, especially when it includes thoughts of self-harm or suicidal ideation, it is crucial to seek professional help. The symptoms you describe—such as heart palpitations, dizziness, feelings of despair, loss of appetite, and difficulty concentrating—are concerning and may indicate a serious mental health issue, potentially depression or anxiety.

Depression can manifest in various ways, and it is not uncommon for individuals to experience a combination of emotional and physical symptoms. The feelings of wanting to harm oneself, along with the physical symptoms like heart palpitations and dizziness, suggest that your mental health is being significantly impacted. It is essential to recognize that these feelings are not just temporary; they can escalate if not addressed.

Given your situation, I strongly recommend that you reach out to a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. They can provide a comprehensive assessment and help determine the best course of action for your mental health. Therapy can be incredibly beneficial, offering you a safe space to express your feelings and learn coping strategies. Additionally, if necessary, medication may be prescribed to help manage your symptoms.

It's also important to consider the role of your current stressors, such as exam pressure and family trauma. These factors can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and depression. A mental health professional can help you develop strategies to cope with these stressors effectively.
In the meantime, try to engage in self-care practices that can help alleviate some of your distress. This might include:
1. Physical Activity: Even light exercise, like walking, can help improve your mood and reduce anxiety.

2. Healthy Eating: While you may not feel like eating, try to consume small, nutritious meals to support your physical health.

3. Sleep Hygiene: Although you mentioned feeling sleepy, maintaining a regular sleep schedule can help regulate your mood.

4. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga can help reduce anxiety and improve your overall well-being.

5. Social Support: Reach out to trusted friends or family members to share your feelings. Sometimes, just talking about what you’re going through can provide relief.

Lastly, if you ever feel that you are in immediate danger or have thoughts of harming yourself, please seek emergency help right away. There are crisis hotlines and mental health services available that can provide immediate support.

In summary, your feelings and experiences are significant, and seeking help is a vital step toward healing. You do not have to navigate this alone, and there are professionals who can guide you through this difficult time. Remember, reaching out for help is a sign of strength, and you deserve support and care.

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