Should I See a Doctor or Take Medication for Mental Health Issues?

Q: Should I See a Doctor or Take Medication for Mental Health Issues?

Hello： Based on your description, you have gone through many hardships during your growth process. <br>Even though the journey was tough, you have passed the tests and performed well academically, so you should take the time to acknowledge your efforts. <br>What has happened cann

Do I need to see a doctor or take medication?

Due to issues from the previous generation, my home has been filled with constant arguments since I can remember.
Since elementary school, whenever my parents fought, I was always blamed for it.
Later on, regardless of investment failures or career setbacks, it was always related to my academic performance (my mother is an elementary school teacher, and teachers often compare their children).
I suffered from nasal allergies and frequent colds as a child, and I had to replace my health insurance card multiple times a year.
My grades did not improve, and I faced disdain again.
At the same time, a relative constantly borrowed money, causing daily disputes at home, which only ended this year when that person was on the verge of bankruptcy and my dad could no longer lend money.
This pressure continued into middle school, where I began to experience anxiety and symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, which only worsened.
Although my grades started to excel in middle school, one day I was in a car accident that resulted in a C5 spinal injury, arm nerve damage, and possible brain injury.
Initially, I only saw a surgeon and an orthopedic doctor, who took an X-ray and said everything was fine.
However, the next day, I began to experience severe pain in my arm and head, which significantly affected my grades, sleep, and often made it impossible for me to attend school.
Regardless, both at home and school, people thought I was just trying to avoid responsibilities, and I was subjected to various hurtful comments.
When I finally saw a doctor, he suggested I was just pretending to be ill.
After entering high school, I began to experience chest pain symptoms, and my previous conditions did not improve; in fact, they doubled.
I managed to get into a good university after three more years.
I don’t know why I believed a fortune teller recommended by a friend in Taipei, who said that studying abroad would bring me great misfortune.
Foolishly, I enrolled in a nearby school.
Later, through a classmate's introduction, I saw a doctor and discovered I had arm nerve damage and C5 injury, with muscle atrophy in my left arm.
The chest pain was also evaluated at the same hospital, where a cardiologist found I had a congenital heart defect (bicuspid aortic valve with regurgitation) and suggested I might have Marfan syndrome.
Hearing this made me feel dizzy, and I was overwhelmed with anger and disappointment.
Although I got into a decent graduate program, after just one day, I realized I had no desire to study.
Seeing my classmates' happy faces only deepened my dissatisfaction, and I often contemplated suicide.
My weight, which was already low, dropped below 50 kg (I am 178 cm tall).
I realized this was not sustainable.
The next day, I immediately took a leave of absence from school and spent a year at home recuperating, during which my weight returned to normal (though I still had several nightmares each week).
Recently, my mother’s emotional instability has resurfaced, and today she used me as a punching bag, possibly after attending a wedding and feeling dissatisfied seeing other people's children thriving.

I would like to ask the doctor: 1.
Do I need medication for my symptoms? My original cardiologist prescribed medication to stabilize my emotions, but the subsequent doctors did not prescribe anything.
2.
Is it better for my physical and mental health to distance myself from this environment? I am considering going abroad to work.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/04

Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry

Hello: Based on your description, you have gone through many hardships during your growth process.
Even though the journey was tough, you have passed the tests and performed well academically, so you should take the time to acknowledge your efforts.
What has happened cannot be changed, and when you encounter difficulties or stress again, understanding the causal relationships can help you better accept the current situation.
However, if your emotions become increasingly negative and you start experiencing issues with appetite or sleep, it is advisable to seek medical attention and discuss your concerns with a physician.
Wishing you all the best.

Reply Date: 2016/01/04

More Info

When it comes to mental health issues, the decision to see a doctor or take medication is often complex and deeply personal. Based on your experiences, it seems you have faced a multitude of challenges that have compounded over time, leading to significant emotional distress. Here are some insights and recommendations to consider.

Understanding Your Symptoms
From your description, it appears that you have been dealing with anxiety, depression, and possibly post-traumatic stress due to various life events, including family conflicts, academic pressures, and physical injuries. These experiences can lead to a cycle of negative thoughts and feelings, which can be overwhelming. It's important to recognize that these symptoms are valid and deserve attention.

The Role of Medication
Medication can be a helpful tool in managing mental health symptoms, particularly if they are severe or persistent. Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications can stabilize mood and reduce anxiety, allowing individuals to engage more fully in therapy and daily life. However, medication is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It often takes time to find the right medication and dosage, and some individuals may experience side effects that can complicate their treatment.

If your previous psychiatrist prescribed medication that helped stabilize your mood, it may be worth revisiting that option, especially if you are currently experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicidal ideation. It’s crucial to communicate openly with a healthcare provider about your symptoms and any concerns you have regarding medication.

Seeking Professional Help
Given your history and the complexity of your symptoms, seeing a mental health professional is advisable. A psychiatrist can evaluate your condition and determine if medication is appropriate. Additionally, a psychologist or therapist can provide talk therapy, which can be beneficial in addressing the underlying issues contributing to your mental health struggles.

It’s understandable to feel hesitant about seeking help, especially if past experiences with healthcare providers have been negative. However, finding a compassionate and understanding doctor is essential. You might consider asking for recommendations from trusted friends or family members or looking for reviews online to find a provider who aligns with your needs.

The Importance of a Supportive Environment
Your environment plays a significant role in your mental health. If your home life is filled with conflict and negativity, it may be beneficial to create some distance from those stressors. This could mean setting boundaries with family members or considering a temporary change of scenery, such as working abroad, as you mentioned. A supportive environment can foster healing and provide the space needed to focus on your mental health.

Coping Strategies
In addition to professional help, consider incorporating self-care strategies into your routine. Activities such as exercise, mindfulness meditation, journaling, and engaging in hobbies can help alleviate some symptoms of anxiety and depression. Building a support network of friends or support groups can also provide a sense of community and understanding.

Conclusion
Ultimately, the decision to see a doctor or take medication should be based on your individual needs and circumstances. Given your history of trauma and ongoing emotional distress, seeking professional help is a crucial step. Medication may be beneficial, but it should be part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes therapy and self-care strategies. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and there are resources and support available to help you navigate your mental health challenges.

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