Unexplained Emotional Distress: When to Seek Help

Q: Unexplained Emotional Distress: When to Seek Help

Hello： During this period, it seems that you have been experiencing some depressive and negative thoughts, along with some stress at home. <br>Although you appear cheerful in front of friends, you still experience anxiety and negative thoughts. <br>Based on your description, it i

I'm not sure what this symptom is?

Hello, doctor: Recently, I have been experiencing a strange feeling towards a close friend, where I suddenly feel an inexplicable dislike for her.
Just seeing her face makes me feel nauseous, and thinking about her brings on a gag reflex.
This feeling usually passes after a while, but the duration varies (this has happened more than once).
Additionally, my mood can suddenly drop for no apparent reason, and I find myself having urges to throw things.
At school, I suppress my emotions and find it hard to get angry, but at home, I can explode over minor issues, raising my voice and showing impatience with my family.

Lately, I've been having thoughts like "What would happen if I jumped from here?" and wondering what it would feel like to crash into a car, along with an impulsive desire to try these things.
I often feel the need to vent but don't know who to talk to.
When I speak to my parents, I feel dismissed, as if they brush off what I say.
My father has depression, and I am afraid to talk to him or ask him questions because I never know when he might lash out due to his unstable emotions.
Therefore, I try to avoid asking questions and keep my conversations minimal to avoid conflict.
I want to talk to my friends, but I overthink it.
I wonder if they genuinely want to listen to me.
Will what I say seem trivial to them, like I'm just whining? I usually present myself as optimistic and cheerful in my social circle, so I fear that if I share my negative emotions, they might dismiss it as a joke or not take it seriously.
Recently, I have also experienced frequent palpitations, but that has subsided.
Now, I feel anxious in new environments, becoming quiet and struggling to connect with others, which makes me feel restless.
I have a sense of helplessness regarding society and interpersonal relationships.
Watching social news leaves me disappointed with the world, feeling that my future is bleak and that I have lost my original dreams.
I also feel disillusioned and powerless in my social interactions, wanting to escape everything.
This is my current situation, and I am unsure if it is a medical issue or if I should seek treatment.
Thank you for taking the time to read this.

Z, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/08

Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry

Hello: During this period, it seems that you have been experiencing some depressive and negative thoughts, along with some stress at home.
Although you appear cheerful in front of friends, you still experience anxiety and negative thoughts.
Based on your description, it is possible that you are showing symptoms of depression.
It is advisable to seek medical attention and discuss coping strategies with a physician.
You may also consider undergoing psychological counseling or therapy.

Reply Date: 2016/03/08

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a complex mix of emotions and distress that can be quite overwhelming. The feelings you describe—sudden aversion to a close friend, intense mood swings, irritability at home, and thoughts of self-harm—are significant and warrant attention. It’s important to understand that these symptoms can be indicative of underlying mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression, and seeking help is a crucial step in addressing them.

Understanding Your Emotions
1. Emotional Distress: The sudden feelings of disgust towards your friend and the urge to break things may suggest that you are struggling with unresolved emotions or stressors. This could be a reaction to feeling overwhelmed or unsupported in your current environment. Emotional dysregulation, where your emotions feel out of control, can often accompany anxiety and depression.

2. Mood Swings: Experiencing low moods followed by irritability, especially in a safe space like home, is not uncommon. It may indicate that you are holding in your emotions in public or social settings, only to release them in a more private environment where you feel safe. This can lead to feelings of guilt or shame afterward, especially if you feel you are taking your frustrations out on loved ones.

3. Thoughts of Self-Harm: The thoughts of jumping or crashing into a car are concerning. While it’s common for people to have fleeting thoughts about self-harm or escape, it’s essential to take these feelings seriously. They can be a sign of significant emotional distress and should not be ignored.

4. Social Anxiety and Isolation: Your fear of new environments and feelings of disappointment in social interactions suggest that you may be experiencing social anxiety. This can lead to a cycle of isolation, where you withdraw from social situations, which in turn can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and despair.

When to Seek Help
Given the intensity and frequency of your symptoms, it would be wise to seek professional help. Here are some signs that indicate it’s time to reach out to a mental health professional:
- Persistent Symptoms: If your feelings of distress, irritability, and mood swings persist for more than a few weeks and interfere with your daily life, it’s time to seek help.

- Thoughts of Self-Harm: Any thoughts of self-harm or suicidal ideation should be taken seriously. It’s crucial to talk to someone who can help you navigate these feelings.

- Difficulty Coping: If you find it increasingly difficult to manage your emotions or if they are affecting your relationships and responsibilities, professional support can provide you with coping strategies.

- Family History of Mental Illness: Given that your father has depression, you may be at a higher risk for developing similar issues. Understanding this can help you take proactive steps in managing your mental health.

Seeking Support
1. Talk to a Professional: Consider reaching out to a therapist or counselor. They can provide a safe space for you to express your feelings without judgment and help you develop coping strategies. Many schools offer counseling services that are confidential and free of charge.

2. Support Groups: Sometimes, talking to others who are experiencing similar feelings can be incredibly validating. Look for support groups in your area or online.

3. Communicate with Trusted Friends: While it may feel daunting, consider sharing your feelings with a trusted friend. You might be surprised at their willingness to listen and support you.

4. Self-Care Practices: Engage in activities that promote well-being, such as exercise, journaling, or mindfulness practices. These can help you manage stress and improve your mood.

5. Emergency Help: If you ever feel that you might act on thoughts of self-harm, please seek immediate help from a crisis hotline or emergency services.

Conclusion
Your feelings are valid, and it’s important to acknowledge them rather than dismiss them as trivial. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Mental health professionals can provide you with the tools and support you need to navigate this challenging time. Remember, you are not alone in this, and there are people who want to help you.

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