Autonomic Nervous System Disorders in Young Adults

Q: Autonomic Nervous System Disorders in Young Adults

Hello： If the stress is coming from work, it is advisable to further explore which aspects of the job are contributing to it. <br>Is it due to a heavy workload? Tight deadlines? Lack of familiarity? Or is it related to interpersonal issues? After identifying the sources, we can d

Autonomic nervous system dysregulation

My daughter is 19 years old this year.
After graduating from high school, she did not continue her education and instead went to work.
As her mother, I am glad that she can use this opportunity to adapt to the social and work environment.
Although she initially struggled and often wanted to give up when faced with difficulties, I have been encouraging her.
After a year, she became accustomed to the work environment, but her behavior and attitude have become quite concerning.
For example: 1.
She believes that one must be selfish in order not to be bullied.
2.
She easily loses patience and gets angry when things do not go her way.
3.
When her supervisor asks her to do something, she responds with, "That's not my job; I don't want to do it." 4.
She exhibits childish behavior, such as not being able to sleep during lunch breaks and following a colleague who is a year older to the restroom to unlock the door with a ten-dollar coin.
5.
She expresses a lot of negative emotions, saying that life is exhausting, among other things.
A few months ago, she experienced chest pain and palpitations, leading her to see a cardiologist.
Fortunately, her heart is fine, but the doctor diagnosed her with autonomic nervous system dysregulation.
This condition has worsened over the past few months, and she is experiencing arrhythmias.
The doctor has increased her dosage of beta-blockers and prescribed anti-anxiety medication.
The cardiologist told me that she needs to work on this herself.
As a mother, I am unsure how to help her.
My daughter tells me that she cannot control her anger or her worries, and her stress comes from work.
Her childish behavior is merely an attempt to distract herself from the tension and anxiety she feels.

Ms. Chen, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/01

Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry

Hello: If the stress is coming from work, it is advisable to further explore which aspects of the job are contributing to it.
Is it due to a heavy workload? Tight deadlines? Lack of familiarity? Or is it related to interpersonal issues? After identifying the sources, we can discuss feasible coping strategies.
If her behavior is a way to redirect her anxious emotions, it is important to find other effective activities to channel that anxiety.
Some of her thoughts may be related to past experiences; perhaps she felt bullied and believed that expressing anger would prevent others from bullying her (or from getting too close).
It is recommended to discuss not only negative events but also positive experiences, such as her interests and dreams, and how to approach or achieve those dreams.
However, if the situation does not improve, seeking medical assistance is advisable.
Wishing you all the best.

Reply Date: 2016/03/01

More Info

Understanding autonomic nervous system (ANS) disorders, especially in young adults, is crucial as it can significantly impact their daily lives and overall well-being. Your daughter's experience is a poignant example of how stressors, such as transitioning into the workforce, can lead to symptoms associated with ANS dysregulation.

The autonomic nervous system is responsible for regulating involuntary bodily functions, including heart rate, digestion, respiratory rate, and the fight-or-flight response. When the ANS is out of balance, it can manifest in various physical and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, heart palpitations, and even gastrointestinal issues. In your daughter's case, her symptoms of chest pain and palpitations, despite having a normal cardiac evaluation, suggest that her body is reacting to stress in a way that is common in individuals with ANS disorders.

It's not uncommon for young adults to experience significant stress when entering the workforce, especially if they are not accustomed to the demands of a job. The feelings of inadequacy, pressure to perform, and the need to adapt to a new social environment can be overwhelming. Your daughter's reactions, such as irritability, impatience, and negative emotions, may be her way of coping with this stress. These behaviors can be indicative of anxiety and frustration, which are often exacerbated by the physical symptoms of ANS dysregulation.

The fact that she has been prescribed beta-blockers and anti-anxiety medications indicates that her healthcare provider recognizes the interplay between her physical symptoms and psychological stress. Beta-blockers can help manage symptoms like heart palpitations by blocking the effects of adrenaline, which is often elevated in stressful situations. Anti-anxiety medications can assist in reducing the overall anxiety levels, allowing for better emotional regulation.

As a parent, it can be challenging to navigate your daughter's struggles, especially when she expresses feelings of being overwhelmed and unable to control her emotions. Here are some strategies that may help both you and your daughter:
1. Open Communication: Encourage her to express her feelings without judgment. Sometimes, just having someone listen can alleviate some of the burdens she feels.

2. Stress Management Techniques: Introduce her to relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, or yoga. These practices can help her manage anxiety and improve her emotional regulation.

3. Professional Support: If she hasn't already, consider seeking the help of a therapist or counselor who specializes in anxiety and stress management. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be particularly effective in helping individuals develop coping strategies and change negative thought patterns.

4. Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Encourage her to maintain a balanced diet, engage in regular physical activity, and ensure she gets enough sleep. These factors can significantly influence both physical and mental health.

5. Gradual Exposure to Stressors: If possible, help her gradually face the stressors at work that are causing her anxiety. This could involve role-playing difficult conversations or scenarios she might encounter.

6. Set Realistic Goals: Help her set achievable goals in her work environment. This can provide her with a sense of accomplishment and control over her situation.

7. Educate About ANS Disorders: Understanding that her symptoms are linked to ANS dysregulation can help normalize her experience. Knowing that she is not alone in this struggle can be comforting.

In conclusion, autonomic nervous system disorders can significantly affect young adults, particularly during stressful life transitions. Your daughter's symptoms are a reflection of the stress she is experiencing, and with the right support and coping strategies, she can learn to manage her symptoms more effectively. Encouraging her to seek professional help, while also providing a supportive home environment, will be key in her journey toward recovery.

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