Overcoming Anxiety and Depression: Seeking Help for Mental Health Challenges

Depression Issues

Hello, doctor.
I sometimes experience anxiety and depression, which have affected my school, academics, and interpersonal relationships.
A few months ago, I took an online depression assessment and found that my score was in the moderate to severe range.
This has led to frequent crying, worsening physical issues such as digestive problems, difficulty breathing, a sensation of throat tightness, and pain in various parts of my body.
I initially thought I could just endure it and that things would get better, but there hasn't been much improvement.
I've talked to my parents a few times, but the timing was often poor, as I brought up my anxiety when they were drunk, which led to them getting angry due to my repeated low moods.
Recently, I've been considering trying to talk to them again and seek support, but I feel that as I've grown up, it seems weak to do so.
Additionally, I often have my younger sister around, and I feel the pressure to set a good example, which makes me fearful and ashamed to take action.
I would like to ask the doctor if there are any methods that could help improve my situation.
Thank you for reading this.

Zeng, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/04/08

Dr. Li Guanying reply Psychiatry

Dear Sir/Madam,
From your letter, it is evident that you are experiencing discomfort and distress.
I recommend that you visit our outpatient clinic for an evaluation and testing to determine if there are any psychosomatic issues or related concerns.
Our clinic is open Monday to Friday, both in the morning and afternoon.
I suggest you consider coming in for a personal assessment by a physician to discuss your symptoms and collaboratively arrive at the best decision for your health.
Wishing you mental and physical well-being.

Reply Date: 2024/04/08

More Info

It sounds like you are going through a very challenging time, and it's commendable that you are seeking help and trying to understand your feelings. Anxiety and depression can significantly impact various aspects of life, including academic performance, relationships, and overall well-being. It's important to recognize that you are not alone in this struggle, and many people experience similar feelings.

From what you've described, it seems that your anxiety and depressive symptoms have been affecting your daily life for some time. The physical symptoms you mentioned, such as gastrointestinal issues, difficulty breathing, and a sensation of tightness in your throat, are not uncommon in individuals dealing with anxiety and depression. These conditions can manifest in various ways, including physical discomfort, which can further exacerbate feelings of distress.

It's crucial to address these feelings and symptoms rather than trying to "tough it out." While it might seem like a viable option to wait for things to improve on their own, mental health issues often require proactive measures. Here are some steps you can consider taking to improve your situation:
1. Seek Professional Help: It sounds like you may benefit from speaking with a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. They can provide a safe space for you to express your feelings and help you develop coping strategies. Therapy can be incredibly beneficial in addressing anxiety and depression, and it can also help you understand the root causes of your feelings.

2. Consider Medication: If your symptoms are severe, medication may be an option to discuss with a psychiatrist. Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications can help alleviate some of the symptoms you are experiencing, making it easier for you to engage in therapy and other self-help strategies.

3. Communicate with Your Family: It can be difficult to talk to family members about mental health, especially if they are not in the right state of mind to have a serious conversation. However, it’s important to express your feelings when you feel ready. You might consider writing a letter to your parents if face-to-face conversations are challenging. This can help them understand what you are going through without the pressure of an immediate response.

4. Practice Self-Care: Engage in activities that promote your well-being. This could include regular exercise, which has been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, maintaining a balanced diet, and ensuring you get enough sleep. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation or yoga, can also help reduce anxiety levels.

5. Build a Support Network: Surround yourself with supportive friends or family members who understand what you're going through. Sometimes, just knowing that someone is there to listen can make a significant difference. If you feel comfortable, consider joining a support group where you can connect with others facing similar challenges.

6. Set Small Goals: It can be overwhelming to think about making significant changes all at once. Instead, set small, achievable goals for yourself. This could be as simple as getting out of bed at a certain time, attending a class, or reaching out to a friend. Celebrate your successes, no matter how small they may seem.

7. Educate Yourself: Understanding more about anxiety and depression can empower you. There are many resources available, including books, articles, and online forums, where you can learn about coping strategies and hear from others who have faced similar challenges.

8. Be Kind to Yourself: It's essential to practice self-compassion. Understand that it's okay to feel the way you do, and it doesn't make you weak or less capable. Everyone has their struggles, and seeking help is a sign of strength.

Remember, recovery is a journey, and it may take time to find the right combination of strategies that work for you. Be patient with yourself, and don't hesitate to reach out for help when you need it. You deserve support and understanding as you navigate this difficult period in your life.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Mental Health: Overcoming Social Anxiety and Academic Struggles

I'm sorry to hear that you're feeling this way. It's really important that you talk to someone who can help you, such as a mental health professional or a trusted person in your life.

Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry
Hello, many factors can affect cognitive abilities, including emotions, interests, and physical condition. Generally speaking, if you are experiencing significant distress, it is advisable to seek a face-to-face evaluation for a comprehensive assessment. A psychological evaluatio...

Overcoming Anxiety: A Journey Through Mental Health Challenges

During middle school, I was aware that nothing serious would happen, yet I was very afraid to go to school. At 19, I worked part-time at a convenience store, but I had to quit because I couldn't control myself when faced with the morning rush of customers; everything in fron...

Dr. Qiu Junda reply Psychiatry
Hello. Since you have been seeing a psychiatrist for many years, you can ask your doctor during your appointment about what the specific issues are. The doctor should be able to clarify your concerns. Based on the text, it seems to fall under the category of anxiety symptoms. The...

Overcoming Anxiety: Strategies to Manage Worry and Find Peace

Hello, doctor. I would like to seek ways to improve my emotional well-being. I tend to magnify small physical issues, which makes me very anxious and tense. I constantly find myself searching online for various articles and identifying with the symptoms, which frightens me and ke...

Dr. Huang Xiaoxian reply Psychiatry
Dear Yenning Chen, You mentioned that you are feeling very anxious and depressed, and that you are experiencing many uncontrollable and irrational thoughts. You are also worried about whether there is something wrong with your body. These symptoms are similar to those of typica...

Overcoming Anxiety After Depression: Finding Your Path to Recovery

I previously received treatment for depression, and I improved over time, so my doctor advised me to stop attending sessions. However, I still feel very anxious when I encounter certain situations, and I become so nervous when speaking to others that I struggle to express myself....

Dr. Chen Mingzhe reply Psychiatry
Kenny, you are someone with high self-expectations but lacking in self-confidence. From a psychological perspective, you serve as a good example of a patient with depression. Current epidemiological statistics in psychiatry indicate that nearly everyone will experience a "de...