Overcoming Low Stress Tolerance: A Journey Through Depression and Recovery

My tolerance to pressure is too low?

I am a patient with emotional-type depression, and my interpersonal relationships are not very good.
Since I became ill in 1991, my work has been intermittent; I only had stable employment from 1993 to 1996, while other jobs were short-term.
I struggle to manage my emotions, having grown up repressing many feelings.
It wasn't until I entered the workforce that I experienced significant stress and insecurity regarding my interactions with others.
I once lost my temper in public, which led to the end of my job.
I have consistently lacked self-confidence and feel worthless, despite having a university degree and having studied abroad, which have not helped me perform better.
There was a time when my family completely gave up on me, and it took me a while to slowly get back on my feet.
I want to rise again, but fear constantly lingers in my heart.
I have faced conflicts due to the pressure of adapting to work, making me hesitant to re-enter the job market.
I have developed a habit of exercising and have done some volunteer work to gradually rebuild my relationships with others and regain my confidence before re-entering the workforce.
However, an unnamed anxiety still haunts me, as I fear the same situation will occur again.
This truly feels like an unsolvable problem.
What should I do?

Michelle, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/06/20

Dr. Chen Wenke reply Psychiatry

Hello Michelle, it seems that your situation is a common issue among many individuals with mental health disorders.
Generally, when people hear the term "mental illness," they tend to view it with a sense of stigma, both domestically and internationally, though it may be more pronounced in our country.
In such an environment, how individuals perceive their illness and truly understand it becomes increasingly important.
Many people struggle to accept the reality of their condition, which often leads to inadequate treatment compliance—whether it's irregular medication intake or reluctance to see a doctor, often opting to self-diagnose.
Sometimes, it's best not to be overly rigid; after all, one should have a clear understanding of their own well-being.
Choosing to avoid problems does not make them disappear, as you mentioned, and it can lead to a loss of self-confidence.
Of course, after becoming ill, certain abilities may be affected, such as interpersonal skills, which is indeed a significant issue.
However, from your letter, it seems that your abilities are not too poor; perhaps past experiences of failure have made you more fearful.
I suggest that if you have not adequately engaged in treatment in the past, consider re-entering treatment and fully cooperating with your physician to see if there is a noticeable improvement in your condition.
Additionally, the choice of work is also crucial; avoid jobs that keep you in a constant state of tension.
I believe this could lead to some improvement in your situation.
Wishing you well.

Reply Date: 2004/06/20

More Info

Overcoming low stress tolerance, especially in the context of depression, is a complex journey that requires a multifaceted approach. Your experience reflects a common struggle faced by many individuals dealing with emotional challenges, particularly those with a history of depression and anxiety. It’s commendable that you have taken steps towards recovery by engaging in physical activities and volunteer work, as these can significantly contribute to improving mental health.

Firstly, it’s important to understand that depression can severely impact emotional regulation and interpersonal relationships. The feelings of inadequacy and fear of failure you describe are not uncommon among those who have experienced prolonged periods of depression. The fact that you have had intermittent employment and have struggled with maintaining stable relationships is indicative of the challenges that come with mental health issues. It’s crucial to recognize that these experiences do not define your worth or capabilities.

Your journey since 1991 has been marked by significant challenges, but it’s also evident that you have shown resilience. The fact that you are seeking to rebuild your confidence and re-enter the workforce is a positive sign. However, the lingering fear and anxiety about potential conflicts and failures can be debilitating. Here are some strategies that may help you navigate this journey more effectively:
1. Therapeutic Support: Engaging with a mental health professional can provide you with the tools to better understand and manage your emotions. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is particularly effective for individuals with depression and anxiety, as it helps in identifying negative thought patterns and replacing them with healthier ones. A therapist can also assist you in developing coping strategies for stress and anxiety.

2. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Incorporating mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga can help you manage anxiety and improve your emotional regulation. These practices encourage you to stay present and can reduce the overwhelming feelings of fear and inadequacy.

3. Gradual Exposure: Since you have expressed fear about re-entering the workforce, consider a gradual approach. Start by engaging in low-stress environments or part-time work that allows you to build confidence without overwhelming yourself. This can help you acclimate to workplace dynamics and reduce anxiety.

4. Building a Support Network: Surrounding yourself with supportive friends, family, or support groups can provide a sense of belonging and understanding. Sharing your experiences with others who have faced similar challenges can be incredibly validating and can help reduce feelings of isolation.

5. Setting Realistic Goals: It’s essential to set achievable goals for yourself. Break down larger objectives into smaller, manageable tasks. Celebrate your successes, no matter how small, as this can help build your confidence over time.

6. Self-Compassion: Practice being kind to yourself. Acknowledge that it’s okay to have setbacks and that recovery is not linear. Self-compassion can help you navigate feelings of inadequacy and fear without harsh self-judgment.

7. Physical Activity: Continue with your exercise routine, as physical activity is known to release endorphins, which can improve mood and reduce stress. Regular exercise can also enhance your overall sense of well-being.

8. Journaling: Keeping a journal can be a therapeutic way to express your thoughts and feelings. It can help you process your emotions and identify patterns in your thinking that may contribute to your anxiety.

9. Educate Yourself: Understanding more about depression and anxiety can empower you. Knowledge can help demystify your experiences and provide you with strategies to cope.

10. Medication: If you haven’t already, consider discussing the possibility of medication with a psychiatrist. Antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications can be beneficial for some individuals, especially when combined with therapy.

In conclusion, overcoming low stress tolerance and the challenges of depression is a journey that requires patience and self-compassion. By seeking support, practicing mindfulness, and gradually re-engaging with the world, you can build resilience and confidence. Remember, it’s okay to seek help and take things one step at a time. Your desire to improve and your efforts thus far are commendable, and with continued support and self-care, you can navigate this journey towards recovery.

Similar Q&A

Overcoming Low Resilience: Coping with Anxiety and Uncertainty

Hello, doctor. At the beginning of this year, I encountered some issues at work that led to significant physical discomfort. After being diagnosed by a physician with mild anxiety and autonomic nervous system dysfunction, I left my job and have been undergoing treatment with medi...

Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry
Hello Mei: Being unemployed for almost a year is a persistent source of stress, and combined with past experiences of setbacks, it is natural to experience some symptoms of anxiety or depression under such pressure. First, accept your current situation. Overcoming emotional sympt...

Overcoming Major Depressive Disorder: A Journey to Healing and Hope

I have been having suicidal thoughts for several months. I previously reached out to friends and family for help, and they managed to dissuade me from these thoughts. Each time I felt this way, it was due to being overwhelmed and stressed at work, leading to many negative thought...

Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry
Hello Jessie: Being in the midst of depression is a challenging process, but the struggle can lead to rewards. With appropriate treatment, most individuals can improve from depression. Support from family, kindness from colleagues, and your own willingness to get better are all c...

Coping with Adjustment Disorder: Overcoming Anxiety and Negative Thoughts

I am currently studying in graduate school, and my teacher initially planned to let me take my oral exam early. However, when I discovered errors in my research data, I fell into a state of negative emotions and anxiety, even contemplating death. I didn't want to interact wi...

Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, internet user: Some individuals with anxiety-related adjustment disorders can indeed recover in a short period of time. However, sometimes due to excessive stress, it may develop into depression or anxiety disorders. It is advisable to collaborate and discuss with your psy...

Overcoming Anxiety and Irritability: Finding Balance After Life Changes

Hello, doctor: Recently, I have been feeling irritable and easily angered. Since graduating last year, my mood has been affected by my mother's illness, which led to feelings of depression. Additionally, I have been struggling to focus on studying for civil service exams, wh...

Dr. Wang Chongren reply Psychiatry
Dear Dr. Wang Chong-Ren of the Tainan Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Executive Yuan Health Department: Hello, The mood you mentioned seems to be characterized by anxiety mixed with depression. Generally speaking, depression often arises from persistent anxiety that cannot ...