Affective Psychosis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Support

Affective psychosis

Dear Dr.
Tang,
Recently, I visited the Holy Mother Hospital for a consultation, where the physician diagnosed me with a serious illness card, identifying my condition as affective psychosis.
However, I am unsure of its meaning.
After researching online, I found that it resembles the characteristics of "depressive disorder." When I consulted the doctor, he mentioned it is major depressive disorder, and I am at a loss about what to do next.
Furthermore, due to difficulties at work, I have been feeling a desire to leave my job.
The physician at Holy Mother advised me to continue working, which I appreciate, but I still feel unwell.
Over the past two weeks, I have been experiencing recurrent thoughts of death and have been feeling very depressed.
Sometimes, when I am in a bad mood, I lose my appetite, while at other times, I have a good appetite.
I have also noticed that I have lost a significant amount of weight recently.
My symptoms persist, and at times, I have thoughts of wanting to harm others.
This illness is truly painful for me.
The physician at Holy Mother also mentioned that I do not need a brain CT scan, as he believes my condition is not that severe.
Yet, I still feel conflicted and burdened, as if my heart is tied in knots that are hard to untangle.
Additionally, my military service examination resulted in a classification of "undetermined," and I will need to undergo a re-evaluation next year.
If the classification remains undetermined, it could take three to five years for a reassessment.
I am filled with resentment; despite clearly having an illness, I am still deemed undetermined.
Does this mean they expect me to fulfill my military service? I harbor a deep anger towards those military doctors and officials, and I often fantasize about harming them to seek justice.
What should I do? I feel lost and overwhelmed.
Sincerely,
Doctor Q&A Teams

Xiao Jie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/07/28

Dr. Tang Xinbei reply Psychiatry

Dear Xiao Jie,
It seems that you are confused about your disease diagnosis! "Affective disorders" include several conditions, generally divided into "bipolar affective disorder" (also known as manic-depressive illness) and "unipolar affective disorder" (also known as major depressive disorder), along with some cases of "dysthymia." Generally, physicians will issue a diagnosis for a serious illness card, which is mostly associated with bipolar affective disorder.
A small number of patients with major depressive disorder may also receive this diagnosis due to a prolonged course of illness or the presence of psychotic symptoms.
These are chronic mental disorders with a high likelihood of recurrence, requiring long-term medication treatment.
Having a serious illness card can alleviate the financial burden of medical consultations for patients!
Affective disorders are caused by an imbalance of neurotransmitters and metabolism in the brain, leading to intermittent episodes of mania or depression.
I also agree that a brain CT scan is unnecessary.

During the manic phase, patients may exhibit decreased need for sleep, persistently elevated mood, increased talkativeness, heightened activity levels, exaggerated and uncontrollable behaviors, a tendency to dress flamboyantly, increased interest and desire for sex, or spending excessive money on non-essential items.
If left untreated, mania can last from one to three months or longer.
In the depressive phase, patients may experience persistent low mood, loss of interest in various activities, decreased speech and activity levels, feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness, frequent crying, and suicidal thoughts.
If untreated, depression can last six months to a year or longer.
For more detailed information, you may refer to "Spring in the Cuckoo's Nest" published by Teacher Zhang Publishing and "The Heart of Bipolar Disorder" published by Tianxia Culture Publishing, which provide comprehensive introductions.
You have recently experienced recurrent thoughts of wanting to die, feelings of depression and distress, occasional loss of appetite, and at times, good appetite, along with thoughts of violence.
Based on your statements, I believe you are currently in the depressive phase.
I recommend that you continue treatment and, if necessary, consider hospitalization based on your physician's advice.
Lastly, regarding the military examination issue, since a few individuals may falsify their conditions, it is essential to be cautious during the examination.
I suggest that you ask a physician at St.
Mary’s Hospital to issue a diagnostic certificate for reference by the military doctor.
Wishing you peace and joy!

Reply Date: 2001/07/28

More Info

Understanding affective psychosis, particularly in the context of your diagnosis, can be quite complex and emotionally taxing. It’s important to unpack the various elements of your situation, including the symptoms you are experiencing, the implications of your diagnosis, and the support systems available to you.

Symptoms of Affective Psychosis
Affective psychosis, often associated with mood disorders like major depressive disorder (MDD) or bipolar disorder, can manifest in a variety of ways. Common symptoms include:
1. Mood Disturbances: This can range from severe depression to manic episodes, depending on the type of affective disorder. In your case, the mention of "重鬱症" (major depression) suggests that you may be experiencing significant depressive symptoms.

2. Cognitive Symptoms: These may include difficulties in concentration, indecisiveness, and persistent negative thoughts. You mentioned having thoughts of death and feelings of hopelessness, which are serious symptoms that require attention.

3. Physical Symptoms: Changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, and fatigue are common. You noted fluctuations in your appetite and significant weight loss, which are concerning signs of depression.

4. Behavioral Changes: This can include withdrawal from social activities, increased irritability, and even aggressive thoughts, as you described having thoughts of harming others. These feelings can be distressing and indicate a need for immediate support.

Diagnosis and Its Implications
Your diagnosis of affective psychosis, particularly if it aligns with major depressive disorder, indicates that your mood disorder is severe enough to affect your perception of reality. This can lead to feelings of despair and hopelessness, as well as thoughts of self-harm or harm to others. It’s crucial to understand that these thoughts are symptoms of the illness and not a reflection of your true self.

The term "未特指的情感性精神障礙" (unspecified affective disorder) can be confusing. It generally means that while you exhibit symptoms of a mood disorder, the specific type has not been clearly defined. This can happen when symptoms overlap or when there isn’t enough information to make a definitive diagnosis.

Seeking Help and Support
Given the severity of your symptoms, including suicidal thoughts and feelings of anger, it’s imperative to seek immediate help. Here are some steps you can take:
1. Reach Out for Professional Help: If you haven’t already, consider contacting a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist. They can provide a thorough assessment and help you navigate your feelings and symptoms.

2. Crisis Support: If you are having thoughts of harming yourself or others, please reach out to a crisis hotline or emergency services. Your safety is the top priority.

3. Therapeutic Support: Engaging in therapy can be beneficial. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is particularly effective for mood disorders, helping you to reframe negative thoughts and develop coping strategies.

4. Medication Management: If a psychiatrist prescribes medication, it’s important to follow their guidance. Antidepressants or mood stabilizers can help manage symptoms, but they may take time to work and can have side effects. Regular follow-ups are essential to monitor your progress.

5. Support Networks: Lean on friends, family, or support groups. Sharing your experiences with others who understand can provide comfort and reduce feelings of isolation.

Conclusion
Navigating a diagnosis of affective psychosis is undoubtedly challenging, especially when compounded by feelings of frustration and hopelessness regarding your situation. It’s essential to remember that you are not alone in this journey. With the right support and treatment, it is possible to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Please prioritize your mental health and seek the help you need.

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