Overcoming Anxiety After a Scam: When to Seek Help

Fear of fraud?

Hello, Doctor.
I apologize for bothering you with some questions regarding anxiety.
Due to a previous incident where an elderly family member fell victim to a phone scam, I tried to intervene at the time, but they did not listen.
After the scam, I became increasingly paranoid, often suspecting those around me, including friends, colleagues, and relatives, of having fraudulent intentions towards me or my family.
Additionally, I started researching how to prevent personal information leaks, but after gathering a lot of information, I found myself becoming even more suspicious.
For instance, whenever there are minor errors or crashes on the internet or my computer, I suspect someone is stealing my data.
Consequently, I spend more time looking up information on fraud prevention, and my mental state remains tense all the time.
Furthermore, since I hold dual master's degrees from abroad, my elderly family members often remind me to think at a master's level and to present myself accordingly.
Because of this, I am hesitant to discuss these psychological issues with them, which has been a significant source of distress for me for about a year.
I would like to ask if this could be considered a mental illness and whether it is necessary for me to seek medical attention.
Thank you for taking the time to read my concerns, and I wish you a wonderful day.

Andy, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/27

Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry

Hello, when stressful events occur in life, it is inevitable that our mood and thoughts may be affected for a period of time, and some individuals may take longer to recover.
It is advisable to redirect your attention to other people or things that are important to you, or when worrying thoughts arise again, reassure yourself that these are excessive worries stemming from past events, and then let go of these concerns to focus on more important matters.
Observe if the symptoms gradually lessen.
If the symptoms do not improve or worsen, it is recommended to consult a physician for a face-to-face discussion.
Wishing you all the best.

Reply Date: 2015/12/27

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing significant anxiety and distress following your family member's experience with a scam. This type of situation can understandably lead to heightened feelings of suspicion and paranoia, especially if it has been ongoing for about a year. Let's break down your concerns and address them systematically.

Understanding Your Symptoms
From what you've described, it seems you are dealing with a form of anxiety that is characterized by:
1. Hyper-vigilance: You are constantly on guard, suspecting that people around you may have ulterior motives, particularly regarding scams or deceit.

2. Intrusive Thoughts: Your mind is preoccupied with the idea of being scammed or having your personal information compromised, leading to excessive research and worry.

3. Physical Symptoms: Anxiety can manifest physically, leading to tension, fatigue, and possibly even panic attacks if the anxiety becomes overwhelming.

These symptoms can be indicative of an anxiety disorder, particularly if they are persistent and interfere with your daily life. While it is normal to feel anxious after a traumatic event, when those feelings become chronic and debilitating, it may be time to seek professional help.

When to Seek Help
1. Duration and Impact: If your anxiety has lasted for a year and is affecting your ability to function—such as impacting your relationships, work, or overall quality of life—it is advisable to seek help. Mental health professionals can provide support and strategies to manage your anxiety effectively.

2. Physical Symptoms: If you are experiencing physical symptoms such as insomnia, fatigue, or panic attacks, these are signs that your anxiety may be more than just situational and could benefit from professional intervention.

3. Coping Mechanisms: If your current coping mechanisms (like researching scams) are leading to increased anxiety rather than relief, this is another indicator that you might need professional guidance.

Professional Help Options
- Therapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is particularly effective for anxiety disorders. It helps you identify and challenge irrational thoughts and beliefs, providing you with tools to manage your anxiety more effectively.

- Medication: In some cases, medication may be prescribed to help manage anxiety symptoms. This is something you would need to discuss with a psychiatrist or your primary care physician.

- Support Groups: Sometimes, talking to others who have experienced similar situations can provide comfort and strategies for coping.

Self-Management Strategies
While seeking professional help is important, there are also self-management strategies you can implement:
1. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga can help reduce anxiety levels and promote a sense of calm.

2. Limit Information Overload: While it’s good to be informed, constantly researching scams can exacerbate your anxiety. Set specific times for research and limit exposure to distressing information.

3. Journaling: Writing down your thoughts and feelings can help you process your emotions and identify triggers for your anxiety.

4. Talk to Someone: If you feel comfortable, consider discussing your feelings with a trusted friend or family member. Sometimes, just sharing your concerns can alleviate some of the burden.

Conclusion
In summary, your experiences and feelings are valid, and it is important to recognize when anxiety becomes overwhelming. Seeking help from a mental health professional can provide you with the support and tools you need to manage your anxiety effectively. Remember, you are not alone in this, and there are resources available to help you navigate through your feelings of suspicion and anxiety. Take care of yourself, and don’t hesitate to reach out for the support you deserve.

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