Overcoming Anxiety and Panic: Seeking Guidance for Mental Health Challenges

Psychological Counseling

Hello Doctor: I am a patient with multiple comorbidities, including anxiety, panic, and obsessive-compulsive disorders.
Although I have been receiving treatment from a psychiatrist for some time, I still feel unstable inside! Sometimes I feel like my vision is narrowing, I have difficulty concentrating, I feel dizzy, my head feels strange, I experience headaches and dizziness, I struggle to think clearly, I feel forgetful, and my memory is very poor.
At times, I even feel like lashing out or harming others! I find this very distressing, and now that I am unemployed, I have to face the pressure of medical expenses.
My father runs a small business as a vendor, but he does not allow me to help him.
I only want to assist and care for him, but he says it would look bad for me to be there without a job, so I cannot go, which leaves me feeling frustrated! Yesterday, my father asked my mother to apply for treatment at the Yuli Mental Health Hospital at the city office, as this would reduce the burden on our family! However, I really do not want to go there; the people there might affect me, and my condition could worsen! Sometimes when I have headaches, it feels like there is a voice in my head (I think it might be my own inner voice, or perhaps I have developed schizophrenia).
I am truly scared! In about six months, I will have to face a re-evaluation for military service.
Sometimes I feel like my existence in this world is meaningless; perhaps I should have been swept away by the tides of time long ago, or perhaps I should have died! This has been a thought I've had for a long time! I feel so inadequate.
I hope to return to my former self.
I hope the doctor can provide me with some advice and guidance so that I do not remain engulfed in darkness.
Thank you.

Xiao Jie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/06/14

Dr. Tang Xinbei reply Psychiatry

Dear Xiao Jie,
It seems that you are suffering from an illness that is difficult to treat, and the financial difficulties at home are making you feel depressed and hopeless.
The pressure of military service is also causing you to feel conflicted.
Regarding your difficulties, I suggest that you continue seeking medical treatment.
You may ask your physician if they can issue a "Major Illness Diagnosis Certificate." This can allow you to apply for a "Major Illness Card" from the National Health Insurance Administration.
Additionally, you could inquire about the possibility of applying for a "Disability Assessment." If you meet the criteria for "physical and mental disabilities," obtaining a "Disability Handbook" could provide you with some assistance in your daily life.
You may also want to ask the hospital if they have any welfare measures for patients facing financial difficulties.
As for your illness, it appears to be quite complex.
I do not have your medical history, nor have I discussed your concerns with you, so I cannot confirm a diagnosis.
However, it is clear that your depression and anxiety are affecting your ability to cope with challenges and stress, and they are interfering with your daily life.
You are still young, and long-term care in Yuli may not be necessary, but it seems that your family is also experiencing a lot of stress and concern regarding your situation.
A motto I share with others online is, "Reality is more important than perfection!" Avoiding and hiding from your problems will not lead to improvement.
I hope you can bravely face the challenges that your illness brings.
You are welcome to call for a consultation at 06-2795019 ext.
1537.
I am willing to continue supporting you, and please believe that there are many people who care about you, just as you care about your father.
Wishing you peace and joy!

Reply Date: 2001/06/14

More Info

Hello,
Thank you for sharing your experiences and concerns. It sounds like you are going through a very challenging time with your mental health, and I want to acknowledge the courage it takes to reach out for help. Your symptoms, including anxiety, panic, obsessive thoughts, and feelings of disconnection, can be overwhelming and distressing. It’s important to remember that you are not alone in this struggle, and there are ways to find relief and regain a sense of stability.

Firstly, it’s crucial to understand that anxiety and panic disorders can manifest in various physical and cognitive symptoms, such as difficulty concentrating, dizziness, headaches, and feelings of unreality. These symptoms can be exacerbated by stressors in your life, including financial pressures and familial expectations. The feelings of being trapped or restricted, especially regarding your father’s business and your desire to help, can contribute to your sense of frustration and helplessness.

You mentioned that you are currently under the care of a psychiatrist, which is a positive step. Medication can be beneficial for managing symptoms, but it’s also important to explore other therapeutic options. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is particularly effective for anxiety and panic disorders. CBT helps individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns and develop coping strategies to manage anxiety. If you haven’t already, consider discussing this therapeutic approach with your psychiatrist or seeking a psychologist who specializes in CBT.

In addition to therapy, incorporating self-care practices into your daily routine can significantly impact your mental health. Regular physical activity, even simple walks, can help reduce anxiety levels. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga, can also be beneficial in calming your mind and body. These practices can help you reconnect with the present moment and reduce feelings of panic and disorientation.

It’s understandable to feel apprehensive about the idea of being admitted to a mental health facility. While these environments can provide support and structure, it’s essential to prioritize your comfort and well-being. If you feel that being in such a setting would worsen your condition, communicate this to your family and healthcare providers. They may be able to explore alternative options for support that align better with your needs.

Regarding your feelings of hopelessness and thoughts about your existence, it’s vital to address these feelings seriously. If you ever feel that life is not worth living, please reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional immediately. You deserve support and care, and there are people who want to help you through this difficult time.

Lastly, consider setting small, achievable goals for yourself. This could be as simple as engaging in a hobby you enjoy, reaching out to a friend, or practicing a new skill. Celebrating these small victories can help rebuild your sense of self-worth and purpose.

In conclusion, while the journey to overcoming anxiety and panic can be challenging, it is possible with the right support and strategies. Continue to seek help from mental health professionals, explore therapeutic options, and practice self-care. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help, and you are deserving of a fulfilling and meaningful life.

Take care, and I wish you strength and healing on your journey.

Similar Q&A

Overcoming Fear and Anxiety: Understanding Emotional Challenges in Mental Health

Since I can remember, I have had an instinctive fear of certain things: 1. The images of invasive procedures (injections, blood draws, surgeries, injuries) evoke a subconscious fear, whether I am experiencing them myself, watching others undergo them, or seeing them in television...

Dr. Lin Mianzhang reply Psychiatry
Hello, Salt: The fear you feel towards certain specific objects or situations is known as a phobia, which is quite common. Approximately 10% of the general population experiences this condition at some point in their lives. If you find that this fear is causing you significant di...

Coping with Unexplained Anxiety and Panic Attacks: Expert Advice Needed

Hello Dr. Huang, I hesitated for a long time before deciding to ask for your advice. Since around the end of October last year, after securing a stable job, I began to exhibit tendencies of health anxiety. Whenever I experience any physical discomfort (mainly related to my eyes)...

Dr. Huang Xiaoxian reply Psychiatry
Dear HYAX, Thank you for your question. From your description, it seems that you originally had a bit of a perfectionist personality and experienced job-seeking pressure before October. However, after securing a job, instead of feeling relieved, you began to worry about your he...

Overcoming Anxiety and Fear: A Guide to Mental Health Challenges

Doctor: I tend to worry and be troubled about one thing until it's completed, which leads to feelings of suspicion, timidity, and a tendency to be cowardly. Being introverted, I don't like to be in the spotlight, but once I make friends, I tend to be overly attentive, w...

Dr. Zhang Zhehong reply Psychiatry
We recommend that you visit the outpatient department at http://www.bali.doh.gov.tw/hours/94-11OPD.asp.

Overcoming Negative Thoughts and Anxiety: Understanding Mental Health Challenges

Thank you for taking the time to address my concerns! My background and current living environment are quite normal. However, I have been struggling with psychological issues: 1. Recently, I have experienced some minor physical ailments. Since I have never had these issues be...

Dr. Chen Wenyu reply Psychiatry
Hello, Fuwek: 1. During outpatient visits, many people purchase books about mental illnesses to better understand themselves, only to find that they resonate with what is described in the texts, which deepens their feelings of unease. In reality, even psychiatric textbooks can ...