Inquiry
Dear Dr.
Tang Xinbei,
I would like to ask if you were the psychiatrist who once practiced in Chiayi or Pingtung and helped patients on the Taiwan e-Hospital platform.
This is Xiao Jie, the Xiao Jie who was quite bothersome during our previous consultations! After so many years, I never expected that I would still be "surviving"! I haven't visited the Taiwan e-Hospital website in a long time, and I was surprised to see your name!
I have already switched to a new psychiatrist and am currently undergoing treatment, although my medication adherence is sometimes irregular.
I feel like crying right now; I haven't taken my medication for two days, and without it, I can't sleep.
I was awake all night last night.
There are so many things I need to do, want to do, and desire—too many to count! Additionally, I find myself sinking into painful memories from the past, which constantly churn in my mind.
My mother passed away from metastatic cancer 2-3 years ago, and I am feeling very, very sad! I have so much to express and share with someone, from "the past to the present"...
The psychiatrist I am currently seeing has limited consultation time.
I would like to find a psychotherapist for individual sessions, but I am unsure how to seek this out.
Should I look for "Teacher Zhang"? Although I have made mistakes in the past, thinking about the harm caused by certain individuals (including those who have harmed others) leads to resentment towards "those people," which I feel is intertwined with karmic relationships from past and present lives.
I no longer believe in karma!
In addition to all of this, I have encountered religious frauds and have come to realize the "true nature" (intent) of certain religious groups.
Besides seeking divination at temples, I have shockingly realized that I was so ill for five years that I couldn't see the reality around me! This has led me to a state of despair! I truly don't know what to do now.
Could you, Dr.
Tang, provide counseling through your private email instead of the Taiwan e-Hospital platform? Or do you have other suggestions? (There are many pages of experiences from the past to now, including my mother's passing, and I need to repeatedly organize my thoughts to explain everything comprehensively!) Especially since you have other medical work besides consultations on the Taiwan e-Hospital platform, I don't have the luxury of "American time" to share my story!
Please let me know your thoughts.
Thank you.
Xiao Jie, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/08/11
Dr. Tang Xinbei reply Psychiatry
Dear Xiao Jie,
I am Dr.
Tang, the one who used to assist in answering patients' questions at Taiwan e-Hospital.
I have not left my position at the Chi Nan Psychiatric Hospital under the Department of Health.
I apologize for stepping back from the medical consultation services at Taiwan e-Hospital due to the demands of medical and administrative duties.
I recall that back then, your frequent changes in medication and treating physicians due to some psychiatric symptoms and medication side effects may have hindered the control of your condition.
I emphasized the importance of "trust" and "continuity" in the therapeutic relationship, and I still hold the same views today!
Since online consultations focus on providing a "professional second opinion" rather than actual medical treatment and are offered free of charge, it is not feasible for me to intervene in your current medical care.
Currently, I only engage in online consultations, and aside from Taiwan e-Hospital, other online or teleconsultation services emphasize providing only "simple" professional opinions.
Due to time and space limitations, they cannot offer psychological counseling and do not operate as individual case services.
Additionally, my personal email is primarily for official communication and personal connections, not for online medical or psychological counseling.
Using it for consultations could violate professional ethics, so it is not appropriate to use my personal email for counseling purposes.
I still recommend that you discuss with your attending physician the possibility of arranging regular psychological counseling at your healthcare facility, which can be covered by health insurance or paid out-of-pocket (depending on the regulations of different medical institutions—payment methods are also an important consideration in the therapeutic relationship).
Wishing you peace and joy!
Dr.
Tang Xinbei
Reply Date: 2010/08/11
More Info
Hello 小傑,
Thank you for reaching out and sharing your thoughts and feelings. It’s clear that you’ve been through a lot, especially with the loss of your mother and the ongoing struggles with your mental health. I want to acknowledge the pain you’re experiencing and the courage it takes to seek help.
Firstly, it’s important to understand that your feelings of sadness, anxiety, and confusion are valid responses to the significant losses and challenges you’ve faced. Grief can manifest in many ways, and it’s not uncommon for it to resurface even years after a loss. The memories and emotions tied to your mother’s passing can be overwhelming, especially when compounded by other stressors in your life.
Regarding your medication, it’s crucial to maintain a consistent routine with your prescribed treatment. Irregular medication can lead to fluctuations in your mental state, which may explain the sleepless nights and heightened anxiety you’re experiencing. If you find it difficult to adhere to your medication schedule, consider setting reminders or using a pill organizer. Additionally, discussing your medication regimen with your psychiatrist can help ensure that you’re on the right path and that any side effects are managed effectively.
You mentioned wanting to seek psychological therapy. This is a positive step, as talking to a therapist can provide you with a safe space to express your feelings and work through your grief. In terms of finding a therapist, you can start by asking your current psychiatrist for recommendations. They often have a network of trusted professionals they can refer you to. If you prefer to seek out a therapist independently, you can look for licensed psychologists or counselors in your area, or consider online therapy options, which can offer more flexibility in scheduling.
It’s also understandable that you feel a need to process your past experiences and the pain caused by others. This can be a significant part of healing, and a therapist can help guide you through this process. They can assist you in reframing your thoughts and feelings about those experiences, helping you to find closure and peace.
Regarding your concerns about religious groups and the impact they’ve had on your mental state, it’s important to trust your instincts. If you feel that certain beliefs or practices are causing you distress, it may be beneficial to distance yourself from those influences. Surrounding yourself with supportive and understanding individuals can help create a more positive environment for your healing.
As for your request to communicate through private channels, I must emphasize that professional boundaries are essential in mental health care. It’s important to maintain a clear distinction between personal and professional interactions to ensure that you receive the best possible care. I encourage you to utilize the resources available through your current treatment providers.
Lastly, I want to remind you that healing is a journey, and it’s okay to take it one step at a time. You don’t have to face everything all at once. Focus on small, manageable goals each day, whether it’s taking your medication, reaching out to a friend, or simply allowing yourself to feel your emotions without judgment.
Please take care of yourself, and remember that seeking help is a sign of strength. You are not alone in this journey, and there are people and resources available to support you.
Wishing you peace and healing,
Doctor Q&A Teams
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