Do I Need Therapy for My Fear of Alcohol and Family Conflicts?

Do I need to seek medical attention?

Hello Dr.
Chen: My father was a long-term alcoholic when he was younger.
He never physically abused our family, but he often had episodes of drunken rage (verbal outbursts).
Growing up, whenever my father had these episodes, he would argue with my mother, which left me feeling insecure throughout my childhood.
Even now, I experience inexplicable feelings of fear and often cry.
I especially feel terrified and shake when I see people drinking, having drunken outbursts, or using foul language (in person); I want to hide or leave the situation.
Recently, I had a conflict with my cousin, who was likely drinking that day.
Upon seeing me, he yelled and raged at me, which made me very scared and I trembled while trying to talk to him.
After returning home, I felt sad and cried.
Normally, I am fine, but yesterday, when I saw my uncle, I went to my room and cried loudly for a long time, feeling very afraid of seeing my cousin again.
My mother noticed my condition and thinks I need to see a doctor.
Dr.
Chen, may I ask: 1.
Do I really need to see a doctor? 2.
If so, could you please recommend a physician in Taichung? Thank you for your response, Dr.
Chen.

Haha, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/10/03

Dr. Chen Wenke reply Psychiatry

Hello, I think your issue might be a type of anxiety disorder.
If it only occurs in specific situations, you can observe it further.
However, if you start to experience frequent, unexplained feelings of fear and unease, it would be advisable to consult a physician.
Dr.
Li Jun-De at Chung Shan Medical University Hospital in Taichung is my senior; you can ask him for assistance.
Wishing you well.

Reply Date: 2004/10/03

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing significant emotional distress related to your past experiences with alcohol in your family, particularly with your father's drinking behavior and the conflicts that arose from it. Your feelings of fear, anxiety, and sadness are valid responses to the trauma you have endured. Based on what you've shared, it is indeed advisable to seek therapy or counseling to help you process these emotions and develop coping strategies.

1. Do You Really Need to See a Doctor?
Yes, seeking help from a mental health professional can be beneficial for you. The symptoms you describe—such as feeling fear when encountering situations involving alcohol, experiencing panic when confronted by family members who drink, and having episodes of crying—suggest that you may be dealing with anxiety or post-traumatic stress related to your childhood experiences. Therapy can provide a safe space for you to explore these feelings, understand their origins, and learn how to manage them effectively.
A therapist can help you develop coping mechanisms to deal with your fear and anxiety, which may include cognitive-behavioral techniques to challenge negative thought patterns, mindfulness practices to ground yourself in the present, and emotional regulation strategies to manage overwhelming feelings. Additionally, therapy can help you build a sense of safety and security that may have been disrupted during your childhood.

2. Finding a Therapist in Taichung:
Since you mentioned you are looking for a recommendation for a doctor in Taichung, I suggest reaching out to local mental health clinics or hospitals. You can inquire about therapists who specialize in anxiety, trauma, or family dynamics. If you have access to a university or community health center, they often have resources or can provide referrals to qualified professionals.
It may also be helpful to ask your mother for support in this process, as she seems to recognize your need for help. Having a family member accompany you to appointments can provide additional emotional support and make the experience less daunting.

Additional Considerations:
- Family Dynamics: It’s important to acknowledge that your family dynamics may play a significant role in your emotional health. Family therapy could also be an option to consider, as it may help improve communication and understanding among family members, particularly regarding the impact of alcohol on relationships.

- Self-Care Strategies: In addition to professional help, consider engaging in self-care activities that promote relaxation and emotional well-being. This could include exercise, journaling, art, or spending time in nature. Finding healthy outlets for your emotions can be incredibly beneficial.

- Support Groups: You might also find it helpful to connect with support groups for individuals affected by family members' alcohol use. These groups can provide a sense of community and understanding, as you share experiences with others who have faced similar challenges.

In conclusion, seeking therapy is a proactive step towards healing and reclaiming your sense of safety and well-being. It’s commendable that you are considering this path, and I encourage you to take that step. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and there are professionals who can help guide you through it.

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