Do I Need to See a Doctor for My Anxiety and Mental Health Concerns?

Do I need to see a doctor for this?

Sometimes I worry about everything and find it hard to trust what I see, often leading to repetitive checking.
When I'm anxious, I tend to become overly tense, and my mood fluctuates greatly.
I frequently experience negative thoughts, and sometimes my anxiety makes me want to cry.
Additionally, I have gastrointestinal issues, which make me worry about having diarrhea in my pants.
It seems like my memory is declining; could this be related to the factors mentioned above? Also, does the specialty of care differ for those over 18 compared to those under 18?

Hua, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/05/25

Dr. Duan Yongzhang reply Psychiatry

Hello! It is recommended that you visit a psychiatric outpatient clinic for an in-person consultation with a physician to understand your condition.
If you are over 18 years old, you can see a general psychiatrist; if you are under 18, you should see a child psychiatrist.

Reply Date: 2007/05/25

More Info

It's clear from your message that you're experiencing significant anxiety and mental health concerns, which can be overwhelming and distressing. Given the symptoms you've described—such as excessive worrying, distrust in your perceptions, mood swings, negative thoughts, and physical symptoms like gastrointestinal issues—it's advisable to seek professional help.
Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health issues, affecting millions of people worldwide. They can manifest in various ways, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and specific phobias. The symptoms you mentioned, such as excessive worry, physical tension, and emotional instability, align with characteristics of anxiety disorders. Additionally, the physical symptoms like gastrointestinal distress can often be linked to anxiety, as stress can significantly impact gut health.

It's important to understand that mental health issues can be complex and multifaceted. They often require a comprehensive approach to treatment, which may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is particularly effective for anxiety disorders, as it helps individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns and develop coping strategies. Medication, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can also be beneficial for managing anxiety symptoms.

Regarding your question about whether the age of the patient affects the type of care received, there can be differences in treatment approaches based on age. For individuals under 18, mental health care often involves more family involvement and may focus on developmental considerations. In contrast, adults may have more autonomy in their treatment decisions. However, the core principles of mental health care remain the same: the goal is to provide support, understanding, and effective treatment tailored to the individual's needs.

Given your symptoms and concerns, I strongly encourage you to consult with a mental health professional. They can conduct a thorough assessment and help you understand your situation better. This step is crucial, as it can lead to appropriate interventions that can significantly improve your quality of life. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and taking that first step can lead to positive changes.

In summary, your experiences suggest that you may benefit from professional support. Anxiety and mental health issues are treatable, and with the right help, you can learn to manage your symptoms effectively. Don't hesitate to reach out to a mental health provider who can guide you through this process and help you regain control over your life.

Similar Q&A

Do I Really Need to See a Doctor for Mental Health Issues?

Hello, Doctor: I feel that I get anxious quite easily, my social situation is very poor, my emotions are unstable, I have a history of obsessive-compulsive disorder, I was diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome, I have a fear of vomiting, and I tend to have health anxiety. Since...

Dr. Wang Yazhen reply Psychiatry
Hello, based on your description, it is important to consider the tendency towards anxiety. Currently, the most mainstream treatment for anxiety issues is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which can be combined with medication if necessary. The available channels for psychologi...

Do You Need to See a Doctor for Anxiety Symptoms?

I have a very rational personality and tend not to express my emotions outwardly, which makes me somewhat repressed. I spend a lot of time working, maintain distance from others, rarely share my feelings, and am concerned about how others perceive me, often trying to align with t...

Dr. Qiu Junda reply Psychiatry
Hello. You have worked hard under the pressures of life, which can inevitably lead to feelings of anxiety and worry. I suggest you search for educational articles on stress management to learn some practical methods that may help. Of course, you can also take the time to visit a ...

Should I See a Doctor for My Anxiety and Fear Issues?

Hello, doctor. I am currently a senior in high school. Due to certain reasons, I had previously sought treatment from a mental health specialist a few years ago, but I stopped going for personal reasons. My anxiety and fear have improved somewhat after long discussions with the s...

Dr. Qiu Junda reply Psychiatry
Hello. If it's inconvenient for you to seek medical attention, you can try to self-adjust your current situation. If you encounter any obstacles that you find difficult to overcome, you can consider using the 1925 mental health hotline for online counseling, which may be hel...

Do You Need to See a Doctor for Anxiety About Health Issues?

Hello Doctor, I previously experienced rectal bleeding during bowel movements, and after seeking medical attention, it was determined to be a minor issue. However, since then, whenever I or a family member experiences any physical abnormalities, I become very anxious and spend ho...

Dr. Ding Shuyan reply Psychiatry
Hello, Taiwan's National Health Insurance is the most affordable and comprehensive in the world! Whether you are sick or not, you can register to see a doctor, and that's perfectly fine! Don't keep your worries to yourself; let the experts help you without hesitati...