Coping with Emotional Instability: When to Seek Psychiatric Help

Feeling emotional all the time... what should I do?

Hello, I would like to ask...
I have been very emotional since middle school.
I dislike being alone and am afraid of not being cared for.
If the people around me ignore me even a little, I feel irritated and start to hysterically say things I don't even understand or cry and throw tantrums.
This has continued from middle school until now, even while I am working, and I still cannot improve.
Should I seek treatment?

Weifeng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/09/18

Dr. Liu Guangqi reply Psychiatry

Everyone needs care, and it's natural to fear loneliness.
Experiencing emotional distress and hysteria under pressure can be troubling, especially if it leads to self-harming behaviors, which is even more concerning.
This issue is sometimes discussed in conjunction with alcohol consumption.
The formation of personality typically occurs during adolescence to early adulthood, and childhood experiences can also play a role, along with inherent personality traits that should not be overlooked.

From the perspective of emotional stability, one can examine personality, interpersonal relationships (including family, colleagues, friends, supervisors, partners, etc.), and life events together for additional insights.
Seeking help from professional counselors or psychiatrists is advisable.
If you become emotional in public, it can damage your public image, and emotional instability turning into depression is often just a matter of time.
It's important to talk to someone; understanding oneself and the world takes time.
Growing through trial and error can be costly, and sometimes it may not resolve the underlying issues at all.

Reply Date: 2006/09/18

More Info

Coping with emotional instability can be a challenging journey, especially when it has persisted from adolescence into adulthood. Your experiences of heightened emotional responses, fear of being alone, and feelings of neglect are significant indicators that you may benefit from professional psychiatric help.
Emotional instability often manifests as intense emotional reactions to perceived neglect or abandonment, which can lead to behaviors such as crying, yelling, or other forms of distress. These reactions can be overwhelming and may interfere with your daily life, relationships, and overall well-being. It’s important to recognize that these feelings are valid and that seeking help is a proactive step towards understanding and managing them.

From a medical perspective, your symptoms may align with various emotional and psychological conditions, such as Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), or even Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). Individuals with BPD, for instance, often experience intense emotions and have difficulty managing their feelings, which can lead to impulsive actions and unstable relationships. The fear of abandonment and emotional turmoil you described could be indicative of such a condition.

Seeking psychiatric help can provide you with a safe space to explore these feelings and develop coping strategies. A mental health professional can conduct a thorough assessment to understand your emotional patterns and help you identify any underlying issues contributing to your emotional instability. This may include therapy options such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors, or Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which is specifically designed for individuals with emotional regulation issues.

In addition to therapy, medication may also be an option to consider. Antidepressants or mood stabilizers can help regulate mood swings and reduce anxiety, making it easier for you to engage in therapeutic processes. However, medication should always be discussed and managed by a qualified psychiatrist.

It’s also essential to develop self-care strategies that can help you cope with emotional distress in the moment. Techniques such as mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, and journaling can provide immediate relief and help you process your emotions more effectively. Engaging in physical activities, such as exercise or yoga, can also be beneficial, as they release endorphins that improve mood and reduce stress.

Moreover, building a support system is crucial. Surrounding yourself with understanding friends or family members who can provide emotional support can help mitigate feelings of loneliness and neglect. Communicating your needs to those around you can foster healthier relationships and reduce the intensity of your emotional responses.

In conclusion, your experiences of emotional instability are significant and warrant professional attention. Seeking psychiatric help can provide you with the tools and support necessary to navigate your emotions more effectively. Remember, reaching out for help is a sign of strength, and taking this step can lead to a more balanced and fulfilling life. Don’t hesitate to contact a mental health professional to discuss your feelings and explore treatment options. You deserve to feel supported and understood.

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