Is My Mother's Anxiety a Mental Health Issue? Symptoms and Treatment

Q: Is My Mother's Anxiety a Mental Health Issue? Symptoms and Treatment

Hello, A-Jie! Here are the responses to your questions： <br>1. <br>Although it seems that your mother has a worrying personality, her recent anxiety appears to be more severe than before and has affected her sleep. <br>It is advisable to seek medical help. <br>A physician's evalu

Is this kind of feeling considered a disorder?

Hello, Doctor: My mother has been experiencing some psychological discomfort.
She tells me that she often feels a sense of anxiety and unease for no apparent reason, even when there is nothing to worry about.
This feeling of unease is uncomfortable for her, and while the episodes of anxiety do not last long, they frequently arise unexpectedly, especially during sleep, causing her to wake up.
My mother is indeed a person who tends to worry a lot and cares deeply about her family; she is a traditional housewife.
I have suggested that she learn to let go and not worry too much, but she says that this feeling comes up suddenly regardless of her efforts to relax, and she feels unable to change it.
Therefore, I have a few questions that I hope you can answer for me.
Thank you.
Q1: My mother leads a normal life and has a stable family, but she tends to worry about small things.
Given that she is involved in the market business and often interacts with people, could her tendency to "worry" be the sole cause of her psychological issues?
Q2: Since my mother cannot control these feelings, can seeking help from a doctor be beneficial? Which specialty clinic would be most suitable for her?
Q3: In the clinic, if necessary, can we receive medication for treatment?
Q4: Is the psychiatric care provided in hospitals similar to the kind of therapy seen on television, where psychologists engage in private conversations? Or is that type of therapy more expensive and not typically offered in general psychiatric clinics? Is the depth of treatment in general psychiatry not as comprehensive?

A Jie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/06/29

Dr. Wang Zhenyang reply Psychiatry

Hello, A-Jie! Here are the responses to your questions:
1.
Although it seems that your mother has a worrying personality, her recent anxiety appears to be more severe than before and has affected her sleep.
It is advisable to seek medical help.
A physician's evaluation can provide a clearer understanding of your mother's current condition.

2.
May I ask your mother's age? Is she approaching menopause (around 40 to 50 years old)? If so, menopausal syndrome could be a reason for her discomfort, and I recommend visiting a gynecology clinic for consultation.

3.
If it can be confirmed that it is not a menopausal syndrome issue, you may seek assistance from a psychiatrist or a psychosomatic medicine clinic.
These clinics can offer various treatment options, such as medication or psychotherapy.
Thank you!

Reply Date: 2007/06/29

More Info

Your mother's experience of anxiety and her feelings of unease, especially when there seems to be no apparent reason for them, could indeed indicate a mental health issue. Anxiety disorders are characterized by excessive worry and fear that can interfere with daily life. Given her symptoms, it is essential to understand the nature of anxiety and how it can manifest, especially in someone who may be a traditional homemaker and has a tendency to worry about family and small matters.

1. Understanding Anxiety as a Mental Health Issue: While it may seem that being a "worrier" is just a personality trait, persistent anxiety can be a sign of an anxiety disorder. Your mother's symptoms, such as feeling tense without a clear reason and experiencing discomfort, particularly at night, suggest that her anxiety may be more than just a habit of worrying. Anxiety disorders can arise from a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Even if her life appears normal, the internal experience of anxiety can be debilitating and warrants attention.

2. Seeking Professional Help: It is advisable for your mother to consult a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or a psychologist. A psychiatrist can evaluate her symptoms and determine if she has an anxiety disorder or another mental health condition. They can also prescribe medication if necessary. A psychologist, on the other hand, can provide therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which is effective for treating anxiety disorders.
3. Medication and Treatment Options: In a psychiatric setting, medication can be prescribed to help manage anxiety symptoms. Common medications include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and benzodiazepines, among others. These medications can help regulate the brain's chemistry and alleviate symptoms. However, medication is often most effective when combined with therapy. CBT, for example, helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns that contribute to anxiety.

4. Differences in Treatment Approaches: The portrayal of mental health treatment in media can sometimes be misleading. While some therapists may engage in deep, exploratory conversations, many psychiatric practices focus on symptom management and may not delve into personal history as deeply. In general, psychiatric clinics provide a more structured approach, often involving medication management alongside therapy. The depth of therapy can vary widely depending on the provider and the specific needs of the patient.

In conclusion, your mother's anxiety is not merely a small issue; it can significantly impact her quality of life. Encouraging her to seek help is a crucial step. It may be beneficial to accompany her to appointments to provide support and help her feel more comfortable. Mental health treatment is a collaborative process, and having family support can make a significant difference in her willingness to engage in treatment. Remember, addressing mental health concerns is a sign of strength, and with the right support and treatment, many individuals can find relief from their symptoms and improve their overall well-being.

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