Adolescent Mental Health: Signs of Emotional Distress

Q: Adolescent Mental Health: Signs of Emotional Distress

Hello, Shadow： From your description, it seems that you may have some tendencies towards depression. <br>People who are depressed often think negatively, which is referred to as negative thinking. <br>They can also become irritable, anxious, and easily angered. <br>Sometimes, the

Is this considered a problem?

I am 14 years old and often feel very down.
I easily get upset over small things and tend to keep my worries to myself.
My thoughts are quite negative, and I often think the worst, more so than my peers.
Additionally, my body frequently shakes for no apparent reason, and this has been happening for several years.
A few years ago, the shaking would only last 1 to 2 seconds, but recently I have noticed that the duration has increased to 3 to 5 seconds.
This does not occur only in response to stress; sometimes it happens just when I am holding something.

Yingzi, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/05/28

Dr. Chen Wenke reply Psychiatry

Hello, Shadow: From your description, it seems that you may have some tendencies towards depression.
People who are depressed often think negatively, which is referred to as negative thinking.
They can also become irritable, anxious, and easily angered.
Sometimes, they may not even realize it, but they end up regretting their actions and feeling guilty.
However, they struggle to manage their emotions, and their mood can inexplicably worsen.
Additionally, since you are already 14 years old, it's common for girls at this age to mature earlier than boys in many aspects, so it's not unusual for you to think more than your peers.
However, it appears that you may have some emotional issues and are prone to anxiety, which may also manifest with physical symptoms (such as trembling hands).
This part should be evaluated further by a psychiatrist.
I hope you don't hesitate to seek help.
Treatment for depression is quite effective nowadays.
Wishing you well.

Reply Date: 2002/05/28

More Info

Adolescence is a critical period for mental health, and the symptoms you describe—persistent low mood, irritability over minor issues, negative thinking, and physical symptoms like shaking—are concerning and warrant attention. At 14, it's not uncommon to experience emotional ups and downs, but when these feelings become overwhelming or interfere with daily life, it may indicate underlying mental health issues such as anxiety or depression.

Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Low Mood and Irritability: Feeling low or irritable can be a sign of depression. Adolescents often experience mood swings due to hormonal changes, but if these feelings persist for weeks or months, it may be more than just typical teenage angst.
2. Negative Thinking: A tendency to think negatively or catastrophize situations can be a hallmark of anxiety disorders or depression. This kind of thinking can create a cycle where negative thoughts lead to negative feelings, which in turn reinforce those thoughts.

3. Physical Symptoms: The shaking you describe, especially if it occurs without a clear trigger, could be a physical manifestation of anxiety. It's not uncommon for anxiety to present itself through physical symptoms, such as trembling, sweating, or a racing heart. The fact that this has been happening for several years and is increasing in duration is something to take seriously.

The Importance of Communication
It's crucial to express your feelings, even if it feels difficult. Many adolescents struggle with sharing their emotions, but talking about what you're experiencing can be incredibly beneficial. Consider reaching out to a trusted adult—this could be a parent, teacher, school counselor, or a mental health professional. They can provide support and help you navigate these feelings.

Seeking Professional Help
Given the duration and intensity of your symptoms, it may be beneficial to consult a mental health professional. A psychologist or psychiatrist can provide a thorough evaluation and help determine if you may be experiencing an anxiety disorder, depression, or another mental health condition. They can also offer therapeutic options, which may include talk therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), or medication if necessary.

Coping Strategies
While seeking professional help is important, there are also strategies you can implement on your own to help manage your symptoms:
- Journaling: Writing down your thoughts and feelings can be a great way to process emotions and identify patterns in your thinking.

- Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help reduce anxiety and improve mood.

- Physical Activity: Regular exercise is known to boost mood and reduce anxiety. It can be as simple as taking a walk, playing a sport, or dancing.

- Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and avoiding excessive screen time can all contribute to better mental health.

Conclusion
Your feelings are valid, and it's important to take them seriously. Mental health issues can affect anyone, regardless of age, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Remember, you are not alone in this, and there are people and resources available to support you. By reaching out for help and implementing coping strategies, you can work towards feeling better and managing your symptoms effectively.

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