Mental Health: Your Questions About Seeing a Psychiatrist

I have many questions that I've been putting off for a long time! I appreciate your help, doctor!

Last year, I visited the hospital due to severe stomach pain.
However, gastrointestinal pain is not something new for me; it has been occurring for about ten years.
After undergoing an endoscopy, the hospital informed me that my gastrointestinal tract was not severely affected and suggested that I see a psychologist, indicating that my issues might be related to excessive stress.
Since that visit, I have not seen a doctor again, nor have I consulted a psychologist.
I am unsure what constitutes a psychological problem and what the process of seeing a psychologist entails.
Is it a question-and-answer format, or how does it work? I am quite curious!
Today, I happened to come across this online service, so I have some questions I would like the doctor to help me with.
Let me share my experiences over the past ten years.
I have engaged in self-harm, contemplated and attempted suicide, and even thought about killing others.
I have experienced a sense of pleasure and relief from destroying and breaking things.
For decades, I harbored hatred towards my parents and often felt disconnected from myself.

In the past five years, I have stopped self-harming, but I still have suicidal thoughts.
My resentment towards my parents has gradually diminished, but my self-loathing has increased.
I have begun to question whether I have dissociative identity disorder or other mental health issues.

In the last two years, I still have suicidal thoughts and have isolated myself, rarely leaving my home for nearly a year.
I feel weary and filled with disgust towards the world, and I hate myself even more.
I often experience insomnia and have started to feel as though there is another version of myself inside.
I frequently forget things and find myself zoning out.

In the past year, I have grown weary and disgusted with everything, experiencing severe insomnia, sometimes only sleeping once every three days.
I often wish to be hit by a car while walking, hope for an accidental death at home, and even wish for Taiwan to be attacked by China.
I long for the end of the world, feeling that living has little meaning.
I often think that existing in Taiwan is not much different from being dead.
No matter how much I do or how much money I earn, I feel that it would all be meaningless if China were to invade.
I just want the day I can die to come quickly.
In recent months, I have contemplated suicide but have struggled to determine the best method.
I want to die in an accidental way, but I have no idea when that day will come.
It is so frustrating! There is an unrelenting feeling inside me that I cannot relieve.

Doctor, based on my explanation, what can you determine? I have briefly mentioned things I have thought about in the past.
I have considered directly seeking a psychologist, but I have been unsure about the treatment process, so I have not pursued it further.
Could you please explain how treatment with a psychologist works?

Yu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/10/28

Dr. Yu Xie Zhao reply Psychiatry

Hello, your issue is both complex and simple! The complex part is that your personality traits combined with depressive symptoms require a psychiatrist who specializes in psychotherapy.
The simple part is: just go find one! They will guide you.

Reply Date: 2004/10/28

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a significant amount of emotional distress and mental health challenges, which can be overwhelming. It's important to acknowledge that seeking help is a crucial step towards healing. Based on your description, it seems you have been dealing with a range of issues, including self-harm, suicidal thoughts, feelings of self-hatred, and a sense of disconnection from yourself and the world around you. These symptoms can be indicative of serious mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety disorders, or even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), especially considering your history of trauma and distressing experiences.

Firstly, it's essential to understand that seeing a psychiatrist or a mental health professional is a safe and confidential process. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders. They can provide therapy, prescribe medication, or both, depending on your needs. The process typically begins with an initial assessment, where the psychiatrist will ask you questions about your symptoms, history, and any other relevant factors. This is often a conversation rather than a strict question-and-answer format, allowing you to express your feelings and experiences in your own words.

During your sessions, the psychiatrist may explore various aspects of your life, including your emotional state, relationships, and any traumatic experiences you have encountered. They may also use standardized questionnaires to assess your mental health more systematically. The goal of these sessions is to gain a comprehensive understanding of your mental health and to develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

In terms of treatment, there are several approaches that may be beneficial for you:
1. Psychotherapy: This is a common treatment method that involves talking through your feelings and experiences with a trained therapist. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is particularly effective for issues like depression and anxiety, as it helps you identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors.

2. Medication: If your symptoms are severe, a psychiatrist may prescribe medications such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications to help manage your symptoms. These medications can help stabilize your mood and reduce feelings of anxiety or depression.

3. Support Groups: Connecting with others who have similar experiences can provide a sense of community and understanding. Support groups can be a valuable resource for sharing experiences and coping strategies.

4. Lifestyle Changes: Incorporating healthy habits into your daily routine, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep, can significantly impact your mental health. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation or yoga, can also help reduce anxiety and improve emotional regulation.

5. Crisis Intervention: If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts or feelings of self-harm, it is crucial to seek immediate help. Crisis hotlines and emergency services can provide support and guidance during these critical moments.

It's understandable to feel apprehensive about seeking help, especially if you are unsure of what to expect. However, taking that first step to reach out to a mental health professional can be life-changing. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and there are people who want to help you. Your feelings and experiences are valid, and addressing them with a professional can lead to a better understanding of yourself and a path toward healing.

If you are considering seeing a psychiatrist, I encourage you to do so. You deserve support and care, and there is hope for a brighter future. Don't hesitate to reach out for help; it's a sign of strength, not weakness.

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