Emotional Turmoil: Seeking Help for Mental Health Concerns

Q: Emotional Turmoil: Seeking Help for Mental Health Concerns

Hello, Xiao Jie： You have a very close sister, and your lively personality makes you well-liked by friends, which is your strength, usually a result of your kindness towards others. <br>The passing of a friend can indeed be sorrowful, as it evokes memories and emotions. <br>This

I don't know?

Hello, Doctor: I often feel troubled by various things.
I don't like dating boys, and I wonder if this is related to my family background.
I come from a single-parent family; my mother had me when she was 20, and I have an older sister who is two years older than me.
My sister and I share the same mother but have different fathers, yet we have a great relationship.
I had a child out of wedlock and was raised by my grandmother before moving in with my mother.
I have many friends, but very few truly understand me.
People see me as a cheerful person; I am lively, but I struggle to share my feelings with others.
So, when I get home at night and don't know what to do, I start to overthink and end up crying.
I had a very good male friend who passed away, and I am heartbroken.
Just mentioning him makes me cry, and when I hear songs related to him or that he liked, I feel so sad that tears flow without me realizing it.
I don't know what's wrong with me; sometimes I feel depressed because I am uncertain about my future.
I can avoid going out, but once I do, I hide my vulnerability and act like a lively girl.
Sometimes when I go out with friends to sing and drink, I end up crying and breaking down, but when I wake up the next day, I feel fine.
My daily life consists of either being too tired to sleep or staying up late until dawn, and I don't sleep well at all.
I either force myself to sleep or, when alone at home, I can't sleep or end up binge-watching dramas, thinking that my life story should be like that of the main characters.
Doctor, I would like to ask what is wrong with me.
Am I sick? Should I see a doctor?

Xiao Jie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/20

Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry

Hello, Xiao Jie: You have a very close sister, and your lively personality makes you well-liked by friends, which is your strength, usually a result of your kindness towards others.
The passing of a friend can indeed be sorrowful, as it evokes memories and emotions.
This reflects the living person's reluctance and nostalgia for the deceased, and it serves as a reminder of the impermanence of life and the reality that everyone will eventually die.
Those who live fulfilling lives tend to feel less emptiness; they discover their life goals and have a clearer sense of direction, knowing how to accumulate experiences that bring them closer to their objectives, thus avoiding a sense of aimlessness.
Life can have many goals, and these goals can be adjusted as circumstances change.
You may appear lively in front of others, but you might feel lost and melancholic when alone.
Being alone is actually a time for self-companionship.
I suggest you accept your true self, be kinder to yourself, appreciate your strengths, and learn to enjoy your own company.
However, if feelings of depression or insomnia persist without improvement or worsen, it is advisable to seek medical assistance.
Wishing you all the best.

Reply Date: 2016/02/20

More Info

Dear Concerned Individual,
Thank you for sharing your experiences and feelings so openly. It sounds like you are navigating a complex emotional landscape, and I want to assure you that you are not alone in feeling this way. Many people experience similar struggles, especially when dealing with loss, family dynamics, and the pressures of daily life.

From your description, it appears that you are experiencing a range of emotions that could be indicative of underlying mental health concerns. The feelings of sadness, emotional turmoil, and difficulty in processing grief over the loss of your close friend are significant. Grieving is a natural response to loss, but it can become overwhelming, especially when compounded by other stressors in your life, such as family dynamics and uncertainty about the future.

You mentioned that you often feel the need to put on a brave face around others, which is a common coping mechanism. Many people feel pressure to appear happy or composed, even when they are struggling internally. This can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness, as you may feel that no one truly understands what you are going through. It’s important to recognize that it’s okay to express vulnerability and seek support from those who care about you.

Your experiences of crying unexpectedly, feeling lost about your future, and having trouble sleeping are also concerning. These symptoms can be associated with anxiety and depression, which are common mental health issues that can affect anyone, regardless of their background or circumstances. The fact that you are aware of these feelings and are seeking to understand them is a positive step forward.

It may be beneficial for you to consider speaking with a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. They can provide a safe space for you to explore your feelings and help you develop coping strategies. Therapy can be an effective way to process grief, manage anxiety, and work through any feelings of depression you may be experiencing. Additionally, a mental health professional can help you understand whether what you are experiencing is part of a larger mental health condition that may require treatment.

In the meantime, there are several self-care strategies you can try to help manage your emotions:
1. Journaling: Writing down your thoughts and feelings can be a powerful way to process your emotions. It can help you gain clarity on what you are experiencing and provide an outlet for your feelings.

2. Mindfulness and Meditation: Practicing mindfulness can help you stay grounded in the present moment and reduce feelings of anxiety. There are many apps and online resources available that can guide you through mindfulness exercises.

3. Physical Activity: Engaging in regular physical activity can have a positive impact on your mood. Exercise releases endorphins, which can help improve your overall sense of well-being.

4. Connect with Others: While you mentioned that you feel few people truly understand you, reaching out to friends or family members you trust can provide support. Sometimes, just talking about your feelings can be incredibly relieving.

5. Limit Alcohol Consumption: While it may seem like a way to cope, drinking can often exacerbate feelings of sadness and anxiety. Consider finding alternative ways to unwind and relax.

6. Establish a Routine: Creating a daily routine can provide structure and help you feel more in control of your life. This can include setting regular sleep times, meal times, and activities that bring you joy.

Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. It’s important to prioritize your mental health and well-being. You deserve support and understanding as you navigate through these challenging emotions. If you feel overwhelmed, please do not hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional who can guide you on your journey to healing.

Take care of yourself, and know that there is hope for brighter days ahead.

Best wishes,
Doctor Q&A Teams

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