and Addressing Multiple Mental Health Concerns: A Guide

Multiple mental health issues

I feel like there must be something wrong with my mental health.
Although consulting a psychologist might be a better way to overcome these challenges, I think it's more appropriate to ask online first.
Here are my questions:
1.
I easily feel nauseous.
I remember in high school when a group of boys discussed masturbation, just listening to them made my lips and complexion turn pale, I felt dizzy, started sweating cold, and felt nauseous.
Recently, out of boredom, I looked up what ejaculation feels like, and just reading about it made me feel extremely nauseous to the point of almost vomiting, and I started sweating cold again.
Similarly, when I was in elementary school, a doctor came to give a talk about sexually transmitted diseases, and I ran out to vomit after listening.
In middle school, I watched a video explaining the childbirth process (which wasn't very graphic), and it also made me feel unwell.
What should I do? I'm afraid that in the future I won't be able to masturbate or enjoy sex.
I feel like there's a certain trigger; for example, I don't feel this way when looking at pornographic images or reading erotic novels.
However, I really dislike the appearance of male genitalia.
I am still interested in girls, but I don't understand why I have this aversion to the topics related to boys.
2.
I have trypophobia.
I am very afraid of pointed objects like pen tips or needles being pointed at me.
Even the hooks on a shelf or the tips of chopsticks seem very glaring to me, making my eyes uncomfortable, and I want to close my eyes.
The severity varies; sometimes it’s not too bad.
3.
Recently, I have been having strange thoughts about many things.
For example, when I see a fruit knife, I think about the possibility of cutting myself; when I see chopsticks, I think about the risk of them being inserted into my eye.
I worry about many things.
4.
I often fixate on a particular thought, but suddenly I will have negative thoughts.
Even though I don't really want to think that way, negative thoughts keep popping up, such as "This is annoying" or "What does this have to do with me?" I know these thoughts are not good, and I easily feel like I will fail or do poorly on exams.
Could you please tell me the possible causes of these issues and the treatment methods?

Wuming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/09/07

Dr. Wang Chongren reply Psychiatry

Dear Dr.
Wang Chong-Jen of the Tainan Hospital, Department of Psychiatry,
Thank you for your inquiry.
The issues you raised can be summarized as presenting psychosomatic symptoms related to sexual topics, which may manifest as physiological symptoms such as nausea and cold sweats due to psychological aversion.
This may stem from issues related to sexual psychological development or neuroticism.
I recommend seeking evaluation from a psychiatrist for psychological testing to determine if psychological therapy is necessary.

Wishing you good health and peace of mind!

Reply Date: 2010/09/07

More Info

It sounds like you're experiencing a range of distressing symptoms that are impacting your daily life and mental well-being. Your concerns about nausea in response to discussions about sexual topics, fear of sharp objects, intrusive thoughts about accidents, and negative thinking patterns are all significant issues that can be associated with various mental health conditions. Let's break down your concerns and explore potential causes and treatment options.

1. Nausea and Discomfort with Sexual Topics
The intense nausea and discomfort you experience when discussing sexual topics or seeing related imagery may indicate a form of anxiety or a specific phobia. This could stem from various factors, including cultural upbringing, personal experiences, or even a heightened sensitivity to certain subjects. It's not uncommon for individuals to have strong reactions to topics that they find uncomfortable or taboo.
Treatment Options:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This form of therapy can help you identify and challenge negative thought patterns and beliefs associated with these feelings.
- Exposure Therapy: Gradually exposing yourself to the source of your discomfort in a controlled manner can help desensitize you to these triggers over time.

2. Fear of Sharp Objects (Trypanophobia)
Your fear of sharp objects, such as pens or needles, is known as trypanophobia. This fear can lead to significant anxiety and avoidance behaviors, which can interfere with daily activities.

Treatment Options:
- Desensitization Techniques: Similar to the approach for your first concern, gradually exposing yourself to images or situations involving sharp objects can help reduce anxiety.

- Relaxation Techniques: Practicing mindfulness or relaxation exercises can help manage the anxiety associated with these fears.

3. Intrusive Thoughts and Catastrophizing
The intrusive thoughts you experience, such as imagining accidents involving knives or chopsticks, are common in anxiety disorders. This tendency to catastrophize—expecting the worst possible outcome—can lead to increased anxiety and avoidance behaviors.

Treatment Options:
- Mindfulness and Grounding Techniques: These can help you stay present and reduce the power of intrusive thoughts.

- CBT: This therapy can also help you reframe your thoughts and reduce the frequency and intensity of these intrusive ideas.

4. Negative Thinking Patterns
Your tendency to have negative thoughts about yourself and your abilities, such as fearing failure in exams, can be indicative of underlying anxiety or depression. These thought patterns can create a cycle of self-doubt and anxiety.

Treatment Options:
- Cognitive Restructuring: This involves identifying negative thoughts and replacing them with more balanced, realistic ones.

- Therapeutic Support: Working with a therapist can help you develop coping strategies and build resilience against negative thinking.

General Recommendations
Given the complexity of your symptoms, it would be beneficial to seek professional help from a mental health provider. A psychologist or psychiatrist can conduct a thorough assessment and provide a tailored treatment plan that may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both.

Self-Care Strategies:
- Journaling: Writing down your thoughts and feelings can help you process your experiences and reduce anxiety.

- Physical Activity: Regular exercise can improve mood and reduce anxiety levels.

- Mindfulness Practices: Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and yoga can help calm your mind and reduce stress.

Conclusion
Your experiences are valid, and seeking help is a crucial step toward understanding and managing your mental health concerns. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and there are effective treatments available that can help you regain control over your thoughts and feelings. Don't hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional who can guide you through this process.

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