Do I Need Medication for Mild Depression and Self-Harm Issues?
Is medication necessary for mild depression? Hello, I have been engaging in self-harm behaviors since April (using a utility knife to cut my wrists, and later mainly my thighs, which are easier to hide). I have noticed an increase in frequency, so I sought help from a psychiatris...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: According to your letter, there are indeed symptoms of depression. It may be worth considering treatment with antidepressant medication. It is best to be honest with your doctor about your condition during the consultation, so they can understand your situation. Suicidal t...[Read More] Do I Need Medication for Mild Depression and Self-Harm Issues?
Understanding Reading Difficulties in My 50-Year-Old Mother with Depression
Regarding my mother's (50 years old) reading issues? My mother is 50 years old and has a history of depression (which has recurred). She says she cannot read books or any lengthy texts, and she only looks at pictures in magazines. Her work involves accounting, and she genera...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: Based on your letter, it cannot be ruled out that your mother may be experiencing cognitive decline, although she is relatively younger. It is advisable to consult a psychiatrist or a neurologist to arrange for some examinations, which may be helpful in aiding her recovery...[Read More] Understanding Reading Difficulties in My 50-Year-Old Mother with Depression
Impact of Antidepressants on Male Fertility and Offspring Health
Does the use of antidepressants in men affect the reproductive health of their offspring? The patient has been undergoing treatment for depression for a year and is currently taking medications including Wellbutrin, Trazodone, and Lexapro. We are considering having a second child...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Thank you for your response.[Read More] Impact of Antidepressants on Male Fertility and Offspring Health
Impact of Antidepressants on Male Fertility and Offspring Health
Does the use of antidepressants in men affect the reproductive health of their future offspring? The patient has been undergoing treatment for depression for a year, taking medications including Venlafaxine, Trazodone, and Quetiapine. We are currently considering having a second ...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: The use of antidepressants in men is less likely to affect female fertility, but once pregnancy is achieved, women taking these medications are more likely to cause fetal malformations, whereas men using these medications show no significant correlation.[Read More] Impact of Antidepressants on Male Fertility and Offspring Health
Do I Have Dissociative Identity Disorder? Seeking Help and Support
Do I have dissociative identity disorder? I have known since childhood that I am different from others. I can communicate with other aspects of my personality in another place, and this has continued to grow over time. However, it hasn't affected my daily life. Some friends ...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: Dissociative Identity Disorder typically affects daily life and functioning, and requires treatment. It is recommended that you first consult a physician to confirm the diagnosis before considering informing your family. I hope this helps resolve your concerns. Thank you f...[Read More] Do I Have Dissociative Identity Disorder? Seeking Help and Support
Understanding Antidepressants: Managing Symptoms and Side Effects
Medications for Depression Hello, I recently visited a psychiatrist and was diagnosed with moderate depression. The doctor prescribed me medication, and although I've noticed that my mood has stabilized significantly over the past week and my crying frequency has decreased, ...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: Antidepressant medications typically take more than two weeks to show significant effects, so please be patient. Wishing you a speedy recovery.[Read More] Understanding Antidepressants: Managing Symptoms and Side Effects
Understanding Poor Sleep Quality: Impact of Snoring and Sleep Environment
Poor sleep quality? Hello, doctor. My current situation is that I sleep normally and wake up, but I look tired almost every day. I usually go to bed around 11:20 PM and wake up around 6:30 AM. However, I always feel fatigued upon waking, and many people ask if I stayed up late or...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: If you are experiencing poor sleep and there are noticeable environmental factors, such as excessive heat or noise, you should first consider improving your sleep environment. Wishing you restful nights.[Read More] Understanding Poor Sleep Quality: Impact of Snoring and Sleep Environment
Struggling with Self-Hatred: A Journey Through Mental Health Challenges
I think I'm going crazy? I am thin and dark-skinned, and I don't consider myself particularly smart. I feel very insecure and often walk with my head down. Sometimes I feel inexplicably happy, while other times I suddenly feel sad. I have a somewhat masculine demeanor, ...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: According to your letter, the issue may stem from a lack of self-confidence. Engaging in legitimate leisure activities, reading inspirational books, and making new friends can help rebuild your self-esteem and confidence. I believe you will find that life is still beautifu...[Read More] Struggling with Self-Hatred: A Journey Through Mental Health Challenges
Struggling to Focus: Understanding Anxiety and Distraction Issues
Inability to concentrate on a single task? When I study or read by myself, I often get startled by the sound of coughing. Even the slightest noise can make me jump. When I walk past someone face to face, I can't help but feel like they are watching me. This has been botherin...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: Being easily anxious can sometimes be a matter of constitution. You may consider consulting a psychologist to arrange some relaxation technique training, which might help improve the situation. I hope this can resolve your concerns.[Read More] Struggling to Focus: Understanding Anxiety and Distraction Issues
From Depression to Bipolar Disorder: Understanding the Transition
Regarding the transition from depression to bipolar disorder? Hello Doctor: My father (the patient, 53 years old) suffered from depression several years ago. After seeking treatment and taking medication, he showed improvement two years ago and subsequently stopped taking his ant...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: Bipolar disorder is characterized by alternating episodes of mania and depression. The medications used during manic and depressive phases are different; antidepressants should not be used during manic episodes, as they may exacerbate symptoms. It is advisable to schedule ...[Read More] From Depression to Bipolar Disorder: Understanding the Transition
Understanding Impulsive Thoughts of Violence and Emotional Distress
Thoughts of wanting to harm or kill someone? I appear to be a successful person in the eyes of others—good job, stable family environment, and good relationships—but my mental state seems off. I often feel an impulse to harm others when faced with minor setbacks, and I find mysel...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: Modern individuals inevitably face stress. It is recommended that you seek some healthy ways to relieve stress. When stress arises, you can practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing. In your daily life, cultivate appropriate leisure activities, participate in l...[Read More] Understanding Impulsive Thoughts of Violence and Emotional Distress
Understanding Medication for Autonomic Nervous System Disorders
Issues with Medication for Autonomic Nervous System Dysregulation Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing symptoms such as palpitations, chest tightness, restlessness, agitation, and a frequent need to take deep breaths. After undergoing examinations by a cardiologist and a thyroi...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: The symptoms of autonomic nervous system dysfunction can indeed fluctuate. In addition to pharmacological treatment, non-pharmacological therapies such as psychotherapy and relaxation techniques can be combined. The effects of SSRIs typically appear after about two to thre...[Read More] Understanding Medication for Autonomic Nervous System Disorders
Struggling with Emotional Turmoil: A College Student's Journey
Mood swings, sometimes accompanied by irritability? Hello, I am a freshman in college. I experienced some events in high school (which I prefer not to disclose) that led me to first encounter psychiatry. I did not undergo any treatment at that time, but as time passed, I found it...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: Taking sleeping pills does not typically cause such side effects. Mood swings can be influenced by individual temperament and personality factors. It may be beneficial to consult a psychiatrist or psychologist to learn some relaxation techniques and improve your emotional ...[Read More] Struggling with Emotional Turmoil: A College Student's Journey
Should I See a Therapist? Understanding Emotional Distress and Support Options
Should I see a psychologist? Last year, due to certain events, my emotions became unstable, I lost my appetite, and my weight dropped by 5 kilograms. In front of others, I appear normal, and everyone thinks I am very optimistic (there were signs of this the year before, but the f...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: Psychiatric treatment can include non-pharmacological methods such as psychotherapy, activity therapy, and occupational therapy. It is advisable to first consult a psychiatrist, who can then refer you to a psychologist for appropriate treatment. Wishing you a speedy recove...[Read More] Should I See a Therapist? Understanding Emotional Distress and Support Options
Understanding Eye Pressure and Fatigue After OSA Surgery: Is It Depression?
Fatigue and eye swelling? Hello, I originally had obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), but after the surgery, there was no improvement; in fact, my condition worsened. I feel fatigued every day, my eyes feel swollen and hard, I experience blurred vision, and I can't concentrate. M...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: Based on your letter, there are indeed symptoms suggestive of depression. However, there is no need to panic, as most patients can improve with treatment. It is advisable to consult a specialist. Wishing you a speedy recovery.[Read More] Understanding Eye Pressure and Fatigue After OSA Surgery: Is It Depression?
Struggling with Sleep Disorders After Night Shift: Seeking Solutions
Sleep disorders Hello, doctor. I used to work the night shift, but I have recently resigned and plan to switch back to day shifts. I worked night shifts for about two and a half years, and during that time, I didn't have any significant sleep issues; I would usually sleep du...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: There are many causes of insomnia, and the treatment methods vary. Some cases can be managed with non-pharmacological treatments, while others may require medication. However, chronic insomnia can adversely affect health, so it is advisable to seek medical attention early....[Read More] Struggling with Sleep Disorders After Night Shift: Seeking Solutions
Can Timely Treatment Restore Cognitive Function in Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder Can panic disorder and bipolar disorder, if not treated in a timely manner but eventually treated appropriately, lead to a restoration of previous cognitive function?
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: First of all, thank you for your letter. Patients with panic disorder and bipolar disorder typically do not show significant cognitive decline, so with appropriate treatment, cognitive function can often return to pre-illness levels.[Read More] Can Timely Treatment Restore Cognitive Function in Bipolar Disorder?
Understanding Sleep Disorders: Exploring the Link Between Memory Issues and Mental Health
What is the problem? Hello Doctor, since elementary school, I have noticed that I dream a lot, often forgetting things during class, misplacing items, and being forgetful at work. The literature suggests that individuals with a perfectionist personality who are more prone to anxi...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: According to your letter, poor sleep quality and vivid dreaming can lead to daytime fatigue and excessive sleepiness. Since you have experienced poor sleep quality since childhood, it may be related to your constitution, and sleep apnea could also be a possibility. I recom...[Read More] Understanding Sleep Disorders: Exploring the Link Between Memory Issues and Mental Health
Comparing Sleep Medications: Jing An Ning vs. Ke Xian Ping for Insomnia
Insomnia medications Is there a difference between "Jing An Ning 0.5mg" and "Clonazepam 0.5mg"? I have taken both for insomnia. If I need to use one of them long-term, which one is less likely to cause withdrawal symptoms?
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: These two medications have similar structures but are not identical. They are pharmacologically similar drugs. Long-term use depends on the individual's constitution to determine which one is more suitable and effective. It is recommended to taper off gradually when d...[Read More] Comparing Sleep Medications: Jing An Ning vs. Ke Xian Ping for Insomnia
Understanding Dissociative Identity Disorder: Myths and Realities
Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) / Dissociation Hello, I would like to ask if dissociative identity disorder (formerly known as multiple personality disorder) is classified as a mental illness. If it is currently classified as such, will it one day be removed from the DSM lik...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) is classified as a mental illness. Is there a possibility that one day it could be removed from the DSM like homosexuality? The likelihood is low. Typically, individuals with Dissociative Identity Disorder have poor occupational and soc...[Read More] Understanding Dissociative Identity Disorder: Myths and Realities