Overcoming Anxiety: A Student's Struggle with Fear and Uncertainty

I feel very scared and don't know what to do?

Hello, doctor! I am a student, and I’m not sure if it’s due to the pressure of my studies, but I occasionally experience sudden feelings of intense anxiety and fear at school without knowing why.
This issue has been troubling me for some time.
Often, I become anxious over minor everyday matters, or sometimes I feel anxious for no apparent reason.
When I am anxious, my heart races, my breathing becomes rapid, and I find myself overthinking.
I try to push through and overcome these feelings, but for some reason, I end up feeling even more anxious.
This usually happens at night before I go to sleep, and during these episodes, I often struggle to fall asleep.
Sometimes, I feel so scared that I want to cry and wish for everything to end.
Recently, during the summer vacation, I traveled abroad with my family.
A few days ago, while on a flight, we suddenly encountered some turbulence, which startled me awake.
I have flown several times before without such severe incidents, but that day, for some reason, after being startled awake, I suddenly began to fear that something might happen.
I recalled some related news reports I had seen, which led me to imagine terrifying and suffocating scenarios.
As a result, my fear escalated to the point where I felt like crying but didn’t know what to do.
Even when I tried to distract myself, find ways to sleep, or avoid negative thoughts, nothing worked.
At that moment, I was genuinely terrified, feeling as if everything would come to an end and that I would lose everything.
Even after safely returning home, I continued to feel fearful.
Whenever I flew or rode in a car, I found myself irrationally overthinking and feeling scared, and this fear persisted even when I tried to sleep at home.
I kept thinking about frightening things or contemplating life and death issues.
I have tried to lightly express my fears to my family, but they believe it’s because I don’t exercise enough and that I lack endorphins.
I am hesitant to elaborate on my fears because I have a vivid imagination (I consider myself to have a good imagination), and I worry that sharing too much might disturb those around me or make them think I’m strange or in need of help.
(I’m also very afraid of seeing a doctor.)
Now, when I feel scared, I can only try to find related articles online, looking for others who have similar experiences or feelings, and seeing how they cope or how others help them.
However, this time, the level of my fear feels overwhelming, and I think that even if I read a lot of such articles, it won’t be enough! I don’t know what to do, and I’m a bit afraid of seeking medical help and making the problem worse, so I thought I would post here to see if anyone has advice...
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Mó nǚ, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/07/13

Dr. Ding Shuyan reply Psychiatry

Hello, anxiety and fear are actually very common and quite treatable.
However, you may not feel this way because, like in your case, you haven't expressed it, and those around you, even your family, may not notice.
You encounter many people daily, and while everyone seems okay on the outside, many are actually struggling with anxiety and depression internally.
I cannot diagnose you online, so I'm unsure if you've experienced panic attacks.
I recommend that you see a doctor; you don't have to bear this alone.
It's not a rare or strange issue, so there's no need to feel ashamed about seeking help.
In Taiwan, accessing medical care is quite easy; you can walk into a hospital or clinic and get an appointment, and the doctor will provide you with answers right away.
If you're worried about being recognized, wearing a mask can help.
Additionally, Taiwan has a Personal Data Protection Act, and since you are an adult, your doctor is obligated to keep your information confidential.
Even if family members inquire, the doctor cannot disclose anything without your consent, so there's no need to worry about escalating the situation.
If you let anxiety go untreated for too long, you may miss out on many activities and joys in life.
Sometimes, avoidance behaviors stemming from fear can become rigid, making it harder to regain confidence and return to a normal life.
This is why I suggest you see a doctor sooner rather than later.
Once again, anxiety and fear are relatively easy to manage in psychiatry, so please don't worry.
Wishing you all the best, Dr.
Ding Shuo-Yan.

Reply Date: 2015/07/13

More Info

It's clear from your message that you're experiencing significant anxiety and fear, which can be overwhelming, especially as a student facing academic pressures and life transitions. First, I want to reassure you that what you're feeling is not uncommon among students. Many young people experience anxiety, especially when dealing with the stress of school, social situations, and the uncertainties of life.

Your symptoms, such as rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, and racing thoughts, are typical signs of anxiety. These feelings can be exacerbated by specific triggers, like the turbulence you experienced on the plane, which can lead to a heightened state of fear and panic. It's important to recognize that these reactions are part of your body's natural response to stress, but they can become problematic when they interfere with your daily life and well-being.

You mentioned that your anxiety often peaks at night, making it difficult for you to sleep. This is a common experience for many individuals with anxiety, as the quiet of the night can amplify racing thoughts and fears. It's crucial to develop strategies to manage these feelings, especially before bedtime. Techniques such as deep breathing exercises, mindfulness meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation can help calm your mind and body. These practices can create a sense of grounding and help you feel more in control of your thoughts.

It's also concerning that you've been feeling hopeless and have thoughts of wanting to end everything. These feelings are serious and should not be taken lightly. It's essential to talk to someone who can help, whether it's a trusted friend, family member, or a mental health professional. While it may feel daunting to seek help, especially if you're afraid of being judged or misunderstood, reaching out is a vital step toward feeling better. Mental health professionals are trained to handle these situations with care and confidentiality, and they can provide you with the support and tools you need to cope with your anxiety.

You mentioned that your family suggested your anxiety might be due to a lack of physical activity. While exercise can indeed help alleviate some symptoms of anxiety by releasing endorphins, it’s not a standalone solution. It’s important to address the underlying emotional and psychological aspects of what you’re experiencing. Engaging in regular physical activity can be beneficial, but it should be part of a broader approach that includes mental health support.

If you're hesitant to see a doctor, consider starting with a school counselor or therapist. Many universities offer mental health services that are confidential and specifically designed to help students navigate these challenges. You deserve to have your feelings validated and to receive the support you need to overcome this difficult time.

In summary, while it’s understandable to feel overwhelmed, remember that you are not alone in this struggle. Many students face similar challenges, and there are effective treatments available. Taking the first step to talk about your feelings can lead to significant improvements in your mental health and overall quality of life. Please consider reaching out for help, and take care of yourself. You are worth it, and there is hope for a brighter future.

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