Anxiety and Mood Swings: Seeking Help for Mental Health Issues

I feel like there might be something wrong with my mental health, but I'm not sure?

Hello, doctor.
Thank you for taking the time to address my concerns.
I would like to explain some issues in my life:
1.
I feel very anxious and nervous in crowded places, and I have the impression that everyone is looking at me with disapproval.
When I make eye contact, I feel like the other person dislikes me or is even criticizing me.
I also find it difficult to look someone in the eye during conversations and tend to instinctively avoid it.
2.
When I argue with someone, regardless of who is at fault, I become very anxious and fearful.
My breathing quickens, and my hands start to fidget uncontrollably.
If I don't fidget, I feel uncomfortable and need to feel some pain to feel at ease.
When I am prevented from fidgeting, I involuntarily tremble and have a strong urge to break free from the other person's control.
3.
My mood swings are frequent and often sudden.
One moment I might be very happy chatting, and the next moment I become completely calm or suddenly feel very low.
I often have suicidal thoughts, feeling that I shouldn't have been born and that my parents wasted money on me.
4.
I often hear from my friends that I suddenly fall into a daze for about ten seconds, during which I don't respond to calls.
Sometimes, I don't even remember that they called me.
5.
I frequently struggle to concentrate when chatting with others.
I want to remember what they say, but I can't focus, and I often forget what they talked about, which frustrates me.
I also tend to forget everyday things, even those that are quite ordinary.
I hope you can help me understand what might be wrong based on these five points.
I want to know the answer, as I'm afraid of seeing a doctor and finding out there's nothing wrong, which would be embarrassing.
Thank you, doctor.

Miss Huang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/05/31

Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry

It appears that the individual is experiencing significant issues with anxiety, depression, and poor concentration.
It is recommended to seek treatment at a mental health facility.
Dr.
Wu Enliang.

Reply Date: 2024/05/31

More Info

It's clear from your description that you're experiencing a range of distressing symptoms that could be indicative of underlying mental health issues, such as anxiety and mood disorders. Your concerns about feeling anxious in social situations, experiencing sudden mood swings, and having thoughts of self-harm are significant and warrant attention.

1. Social Anxiety: The feelings of anxiety and discomfort in crowded places, along with the fear of being judged or disliked by others, suggest that you may be experiencing social anxiety disorder. This condition can lead to avoidance of social interactions and can severely impact your daily life. It's important to understand that you're not alone in feeling this way, and many people experience similar feelings. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is often effective in treating social anxiety by helping individuals challenge and change negative thought patterns.

2. Mood Swings: The rapid changes in your mood, from happiness to deep sadness, can be indicative of mood disorders, such as bipolar disorder or major depressive disorder. The presence of suicidal thoughts is particularly concerning and should be taken seriously. It's crucial to seek professional help if you're experiencing these thoughts. A mental health professional can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment plan, which may include therapy and medication.

3. Physical Symptoms of Anxiety: The physical manifestations of your anxiety, such as rapid breathing and the need to grasp something to feel secure, are common in anxiety disorders. These symptoms can be distressing and may lead to a cycle of increased anxiety. Techniques such as mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, and grounding techniques can help manage these physical symptoms.

4. Cognitive Difficulties: Your experiences of zoning out or having difficulty concentrating during conversations may be related to anxiety or could indicate attention-related issues. This can be frustrating, especially when you want to engage with others. Strategies to improve focus, such as minimizing distractions and practicing active listening, can be beneficial. However, if these issues persist, it may be worth discussing with a healthcare provider.

5. Seeking Help: It's commendable that you're considering seeking help. Many people feel apprehensive about visiting a mental health professional, fearing they might be dismissed or that their concerns are not valid. However, mental health professionals are trained to understand and treat a wide range of issues. It's better to seek help and find out that you are okay than to ignore your symptoms and risk worsening your condition.

In conclusion, your symptoms suggest that you may be dealing with anxiety and mood-related issues that could benefit from professional evaluation and treatment. It's important to reach out to a mental health professional who can provide a comprehensive assessment and work with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and taking the first step towards understanding and managing your mental health is crucial for your well-being.

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