Am I Sick? Depression and Seeking Help

Q: Am I Sick? Depression and Seeking Help

Hello, Guazi netizen： Before formally answering your question, I would like to explain a few fundamental concepts in psychiatry. <br>First, the brain, as the central nervous system, governs our entire body; it not only controls our speech and behavior but also determines our emot

Am I sick?

Hello Doctor: Over the past year, I have noticed that I have very negative thoughts about everything.
I constantly feel like I am not doing anything right.
Additionally, my relationship with my boyfriend is not very stable; we often argue, and I frequently feel misunderstood or criticized, which makes me think I am a bad person.
Although he treats me well, I find myself becoming more pessimistic than before.
I lack confidence in everything I do, have difficulty concentrating, and often overthink things.
I cry easily and feel like I can't do anything well, as if everything I do is wrong.
Sometimes, I even struggle to find any value in life.
In depression assessments, I consistently score above the most severe levels, and I have been advised to see a doctor.
But is there really a way to improve by seeing a doctor? (Sometimes I even wonder if my current state is due to being with my boyfriend, as I was never this pessimistic or lacking in confidence before.) What is the process like when seeing a doctor? Should I see a psychologist instead? Thank you for your response.

Guazi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/05/31

Dr. Chen Guangpeng reply Psychiatry

Hello, Guazi netizen: Before formally answering your question, I would like to explain a few fundamental concepts in psychiatry.
First, the brain, as the central nervous system, governs our entire body; it not only controls our speech and behavior but also determines our emotions such as joy, anger, sorrow, and happiness.
These functions are influenced by neurons, neural networks, and neurotransmitters.
Secondly, physiological, psychological, and environmental factors collectively affect our mental and physical states.
Psychiatric treatment encompasses these three dimensions: biological, psychological, and social.

The state you are currently experiencing indeed meets the criteria for depression, and a possible cause could be environmental stress (your boyfriend), which has led to an imbalance in neurotransmitters in your brain, affecting your cognition, emotions, and even behavior—this is reflected in your symptoms.
Therefore, even if it may not be labeled as a disease, you have certainly lost your normal state and require external intervention to improve it.
This could involve changes in your environment, psychological adjustments, or pharmacological treatment.
Generally, treatments covered by health insurance typically require referral through the psychiatric or psychosomatic departments in hospitals.
Some local governments have mental health centers that offer free services, and school counseling centers are also very accessible.
The psychologist you mentioned is likely a private practitioner or therapist, which can be quite costly, but it is also an option.

Regardless, I wish you the best in taking the first step towards regaining your health and happiness.

Reply Date: 2004/05/31

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a significant amount of emotional distress, and it's important to acknowledge that what you're feeling is valid. Based on your description, it seems you may be dealing with symptoms consistent with depression, which can manifest as persistent negative thoughts, low self-esteem, difficulty concentrating, and emotional instability. These feelings can be exacerbated by relationship issues, such as the conflicts you're experiencing with your boyfriend, which can further contribute to feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness.

Depression is a complex mental health condition that can arise from a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors. It’s not uncommon for individuals to feel overwhelmed by their circumstances, especially when they perceive a lack of support or understanding from those around them. The fact that you are questioning your self-worth and feeling like you are not good enough is a common symptom of depression. It’s also important to note that relationships can significantly impact our mental health; if your relationship is a source of stress, it may be contributing to your feelings of sadness and inadequacy.

Seeking help from a mental health professional is a crucial step towards understanding and managing your symptoms. A psychiatrist or psychologist can provide you with a proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your needs. Treatment for depression often includes therapy, medication, or a combination of both. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), for instance, is a common therapeutic approach that helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. This can be particularly beneficial for someone in your situation, as it can help you develop healthier coping mechanisms and improve your self-esteem.

When you visit a mental health professional, the process typically begins with an assessment. This may involve discussing your symptoms, your medical history, and any relevant life events that may have contributed to your current state. The therapist will ask questions to better understand your feelings and thoughts, and they may use standardized questionnaires to assess the severity of your depression. Based on this information, they will work with you to develop a treatment plan that may include therapy sessions, lifestyle changes, and possibly medication.

It’s also worth mentioning that confidentiality is a fundamental principle in mental health care. Your personal information and treatment details will be kept private, allowing you to speak freely about your experiences without fear of judgment or disclosure.

In addition to professional help, there are self-care strategies you can incorporate into your daily routine to help manage your symptoms. These may include regular physical activity, maintaining a balanced diet, practicing mindfulness or meditation, and engaging in activities that bring you joy. Surrounding yourself with supportive friends and family can also make a significant difference in your emotional well-being.

Lastly, it’s essential to be patient with yourself throughout this process. Recovery from depression can take time, and it’s normal to have ups and downs along the way. The important thing is to take that first step and reach out for help. You deserve support and the opportunity to feel better. Remember, you are not alone in this, and there are resources available to help you navigate through these challenging times.

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