Do I Have Panic Disorder or Another Mental Health Issue?

Q: Do I Have Panic Disorder or Another Mental Health Issue?

Hello： Based on your description, it seems you may be experiencing a sleep disorder or anxiety-related condition. <br>I recommend that you consult with a psychiatrist or a psychosomatic medicine specialist at a general hospital, or visit the adult psychiatry outpatient clinic at

Do I have panic disorder or another mental illness?

Hello, I have a significant problem that troubles me.
My main symptom is that I cannot sleep during the school lunch break; I experience what is commonly known as sleep paralysis almost every day.
I am fully aware, but I cannot move my body at all.
It takes a lot of effort to regain movement, and after I do, my head feels very heavy and dizzy.
Sometimes I can't hold back, and I experience sleep paralysis again, which is exhausting.
I can't focus in class in the afternoon and keep dozing off.
Additionally, even after class, I experience these symptoms during short naps.
Sometimes I feel like I can't breathe, and I also suddenly feel tense, sweating profusely, which is very uncomfortable.
This has been happening frequently, and I feel like I'm going crazy.
I've experienced this since childhood, but the frequency has increased significantly.
I feel like I can't breathe and that I'm about to die.
Previously, I also felt chest pain in the middle of my chest, and I'm not sure if it's my heart that hurts; it's very strange.
I asked others, and they said I show symptoms of panic disorder.
So I would like to ask, since I am from Taoyuan, which department should I see for these symptoms? Which hospital has the appropriate services?

Cao, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/07/28

Dr. Zhan Hongyu reply Psychiatry

Hello: Based on your description, it seems you may be experiencing a sleep disorder or anxiety-related condition.
I recommend that you consult with a psychiatrist or a psychosomatic medicine specialist at a general hospital, or visit the adult psychiatry outpatient clinic at our institution.
Sincerely, Dr.
Jan Hong-Yu.

Reply Date: 2006/07/28

More Info

Based on your description, it sounds like you are experiencing a range of distressing symptoms that could be indicative of a panic disorder or another anxiety-related condition. The phenomenon you refer to as "鬼壓床" (which translates to sleep paralysis) is often associated with feelings of being unable to move while falling asleep or waking up, and it can be accompanied by vivid hallucinations or a sense of pressure on the chest. This experience can be quite frightening and may lead to increased anxiety about sleep and relaxation.

Your symptoms of feeling unable to breathe, experiencing tightness in your chest, and sudden episodes of intense fear or panic are also characteristic of panic attacks. These attacks can occur unexpectedly and may lead to a cycle of fear about having another attack, which can further exacerbate anxiety and lead to avoidance behaviors.

Given that you have been experiencing these symptoms frequently and they are impacting your daily life, including your ability to concentrate in class, it is essential to seek professional help. You mentioned that these symptoms have been present since childhood but have intensified recently. This pattern suggests that there may be underlying issues that need to be addressed.

In terms of what type of specialist to see, I recommend consulting with a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation of your symptoms, help determine whether you meet the criteria for panic disorder or another anxiety disorder, and develop an appropriate treatment plan. Treatment options may include therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which is effective for anxiety disorders, as well as medication if necessary.

In Taiwan, you can find mental health services at hospitals or clinics that specialize in psychiatry. It may be beneficial to look for a hospital with a good reputation for mental health services in Taoyuan. You can also consider reaching out to local mental health hotlines or community health centers for guidance on where to seek help.

In addition to professional treatment, there are some self-care strategies you can implement to help manage your symptoms. These include:
1. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practicing mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, or progressive muscle relaxation can help reduce anxiety and improve your ability to cope with stress.

2. Regular Physical Activity: Engaging in regular exercise can help alleviate anxiety and improve your overall mood.

3. Sleep Hygiene: Establishing a regular sleep schedule and creating a calming bedtime routine can help improve your sleep quality and reduce the frequency of sleep disturbances.

4. Avoiding Stimulants: Reducing or eliminating caffeine and other stimulants can help decrease anxiety levels.

5. Support System: Talking to friends or family about your experiences can provide emotional support and help you feel less isolated.

Remember, you are not alone in this, and seeking help is a crucial step toward feeling better. It is commendable that you are reaching out for information and support. Please take the next step and consult with a mental health professional who can provide you with the assistance you need.

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