Dealing with a Difficult Mother: Understanding Mental Health Challenges
Difficulties in dealing with one's mother? The mother often loudly scolds us for saying something she disagrees with (even if it is for her own good), claiming that my father and I cannot stand to see her happy, wishing for her to be sad, and hoping she dies soon. She insist...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: Based on what you mentioned in your letter, it is indeed quite troubling. However, your mother may just have personality issues. You might consider family therapy to improve interactions among family members. If your mother does not trust doctors, some counseling centers c...[Read More] Dealing with a Difficult Mother: Understanding Mental Health Challenges
Understanding Excessive Sleepiness: Causes and Solutions for Your Symptoms
Hypersomnia? Hello Doctor, I experience a dull headache while sleeping and upon waking up, along with swollen and sore eyes. I feel like I haven't had enough sleep. About half an hour later, the symptoms worsen to excessive sleepiness, fatigue, and significant eye discomfort...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: First of all, thank you for your letter. The stressors related to psychosomatic disorders can sometimes be subconscious, and patients may not be aware of them, only feeling physical discomfort. However, I recommend that you rule out any physiological factors that may be ca...[Read More] Understanding Excessive Sleepiness: Causes and Solutions for Your Symptoms
Understanding the Effects of Anxiety Medications on Daily Life and Sleep
Anxiolytic medications I previously visited a cardiology department and was diagnosed with mitral valve prolapse combined with autonomic nervous system dysfunction. I often wake up at night with chest pain and have been taking 0.25 mg of Sertraline (Zoloft) before bed, around 10 ...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: First of all, thank you for your letter. Yuli Shu is expected to have a therapeutic effect that lasts for several hours and also has sedative and sleep-inducing properties. However, it can indeed cause side effects such as drowsiness and memory impairment. It is advisable ...[Read More] Understanding the Effects of Anxiety Medications on Daily Life and Sleep
Understanding Severe Depression: A Patient's Journey and Treatment Options
Inquiry about Depression Symptoms Hello Dr. Lee! In 2012, I experienced my tenth episode of depression. My first suicide attempt was at the age of 9, but it wasn't until my ninth episode in 2012 that I was formally followed up by the hospital. In January 2014, I suffered a p...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: First of all, thank you for your letter. Depression is indeed a challenging condition. Based on what you described, it seems that you may have a lower tolerance for stress, and it might be beneficial for you to seek appropriate psychological therapy to enhance your stress ...[Read More] Understanding Severe Depression: A Patient's Journey and Treatment Options
Understanding Mental Health Issues: Signs and Symptoms in Young Adults
Psychological disorders? My sister has started to feel like crying, is paranoid, and has become very angry. She also begins to wonder what it feels like to jump off a building or to commit suicide. Her hair is falling out more and more, and she gradually talks less. She often ski...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: As mentioned in the letter, there are indeed differences compared to the general population, but online descriptions cannot lead to a diagnosis. It is recommended to consult a psychiatrist. Thank you for your correspondence.[Read More] Understanding Mental Health Issues: Signs and Symptoms in Young Adults
Finding the Right Treatment for Bipolar Disorder: A Journey to Recovery
Bipolar disorder issues I have seen many doctors before, but they all provided different diagnoses and prescribed different medications. This has been going on for about 10 years. However, the last doctor I consulted prescribed medication that significantly improved my mood and s...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: If a patient with bipolar disorder has not experienced an episode for several years, they may discuss discontinuing medication with their physician, as they might achieve complete recovery. Wishing you a speedy recovery, thank you for your letter.[Read More] Finding the Right Treatment for Bipolar Disorder: A Journey to Recovery
What's the Best Time to Finish Nighttime Exercise for Mental Health?
Nighttime exercise It is generally recommended to complete nighttime exercise at least 2 to 3 hours before bedtime to avoid potential disruptions to sleep quality.
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: It is best to complete nighttime exercise before your usual bedtime to avoid affecting your sleep. Thank you for your message.[Read More] What's the Best Time to Finish Nighttime Exercise for Mental Health?
Does Bipolar Disorder Affect Intelligence? Understanding the Impact
Mental disorders Does bipolar disorder actually lower intelligence?
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: After multiple episodes of bipolar disorder, patients may experience a decline in functioning, specifically a decrease in cognitive abilities. Thank you for your letter.[Read More] Does Bipolar Disorder Affect Intelligence? Understanding the Impact
Understanding Bipolar Disorder: Signs, Symptoms, and Seeking Help
I am not sure if this qualifies as bipolar disorder? Hello Doctor: I have not been happy for the past two years. I used to be a very lively person, and even my friends say so. However, since I became more aware of my surroundings, I often argue with my parents. I used to endure i...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: First of all, thank you for your letter. Based on your description, it seems that you may be experiencing symptoms of depression, such as low mood, irritability, and suicidal thoughts. I recommend seeking help from a psychiatrist or psychologist. Wishing you a speedy recov...[Read More] Understanding Bipolar Disorder: Signs, Symptoms, and Seeking Help
Does Bipolar Disorder Medication Affect Intelligence and Memory?
Why does bipolar disorder lead to cognitive decline? Can it improve? This year marks my second episode of bipolar disorder. I was hospitalized, and at that time, my IQ, logic, and memory were all quite good. I continued taking medication (Depakote and Olanzapine), but gradually I...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: First of all, thank you for your letter. During manic episodes, patients with bipolar disorder may experience increased energy and enhanced memory. If medication is discontinued and a depressive episode occurs, symptoms such as cognitive dullness, difficulty concentrating,...[Read More] Does Bipolar Disorder Medication Affect Intelligence and Memory?
Understanding Skull Development and Its Connection to Mental Health Issues
Cranial development issues? Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask until what age do male bones generally develop? Does the skull continue to grow after the age of 18? Two years ago, I was diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder and often overthink things, which causes me headac...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: First of all, thank you for your letter. Mental illnesses are generally not related to the appearance of the skull, unless the mental illness is caused by head trauma, in which case the patient may have fractures in the skull. After the age of 18, the skull should have ful...[Read More] Understanding Skull Development and Its Connection to Mental Health Issues
Struggling to Sleep: Why Exhaustion Doesn't Equal Rest
Very tired but having difficulty falling asleep? I am very tired, but I find it difficult to fall asleep, or I wake up just a few minutes after falling asleep.
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: First of all, thank you for your letter. The causes of insomnia can be broadly categorized into three main types: 1. Mental disorders such as schizophrenia and depression; 2. Physiological conditions such as pain or heart disease; 3. Insomnia of unknown origin related to i...[Read More] Struggling to Sleep: Why Exhaustion Doesn't Equal Rest
Understanding Haloperidol: Dosage, Safety, and Usage Guidelines
Haloperidol solution I would like to ask about my mother who is currently using "Hyaluronic Acid Drops." I heard that this medication can be quite toxic. Is taking 3 cc per day too much? The doctor mentioned that she can adjust the dosage herself, but what is the minimu...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: First of all, thank you for your letter. Haloperidol is an antipsychotic medication, and common side effects include constipation, dry mouth, drowsiness, and blurred vision. These side effects usually diminish after taking the medication for a while. However, if these side...[Read More] Understanding Haloperidol: Dosage, Safety, and Usage Guidelines
Am I Suffering from Depression? Understanding Symptoms and Concerns
Am I suffering from depression? I have been experiencing some health issues recently, which have made me quite frustrated. Sometimes I feel indifferent about everything. Ever since I learned about my condition, I have been suffering from insomnia; it's difficult for me to fa...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: First of all, thank you for your letter. Based on what you mentioned, feeling low, depressed, and experiencing insomnia for a duration of two months are symptoms of depression. You may be suffering from major depressive disorder. I recommend seeking assistance from a psych...[Read More] Am I Suffering from Depression? Understanding Symptoms and Concerns
Understanding Social Withdrawal in Schizophrenia: Day Hospital Insights
Social withdrawal For someone like me who has a diagnosis of schizophrenia and experiences social withdrawal, feeling uneasy around people due to their appearance, and only speaking with acquaintances, along with not having worked since graduating from school, would it generally ...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: First, thank you for your letter. The purpose of daytime hospitalization focuses on social and vocational skills training, which is indeed suitable for your situation. The goal of hospitalization is to reintegrate into the community; if you can work in a sheltered workshop...[Read More] Understanding Social Withdrawal in Schizophrenia: Day Hospital Insights
Do Antidepressants and Mood Disorder Medications Cause Sexual Dysfunction?
Sexual dysfunction Can long-term use of antidepressants and medications for bipolar disorder cause sexual dysfunction?
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: First of all, thank you for your message. Long-term use of antidepressants and medications for bipolar disorder can indeed lead to sexual dysfunction in some patients. It is advisable to discuss the possibility of changing or discontinuing medication with your treating phy...[Read More] Do Antidepressants and Mood Disorder Medications Cause Sexual Dysfunction?
Should You Consult a Psychiatrist for Ongoing Anxiety Symptoms?
Do you need to see a psychiatrist for treatment? Several years ago, after a family member was diagnosed with cancer, I began experiencing symptoms such as dizziness, palpitations, and anxiety. A neurologist conducted an EEG and concluded that it was merely anxiety. I was prescrib...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: First, welcome your letter. According to what you mentioned in your correspondence, you may be experiencing psychosomatic disorder. The term "psychosomatic disorder" does not solely refer to a "mental illness." Generally, it can be divided into two main...[Read More] Should You Consult a Psychiatrist for Ongoing Anxiety Symptoms?
Understanding Persistent Pain: When to Seek Help Beyond Psychiatry
Chronic pain Hello: I have been seeing a psychiatrist for over eight months. The doctor suspects I have autonomic nervous system dysregulation due to insomnia and other physical symptoms. I have been taking Liyou and other sedatives for about six months, but changing medications ...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: First of all, thank you for your letter. Autonomic nervous system disorders or anxiety disorders can indeed present with physiological symptoms that cannot be explained by physical examinations or diagnostic tests, such as unexplained pain. However, it is generally necessa...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Pain: When to Seek Help Beyond Psychiatry
Managing Panic Disorder: Understanding Autonomic Dysfunction and Sleep Issues
Regarding autonomic nervous system dysregulation caused by panic disorder... please consult a physician? Dr. Li, I apologize for the interruption, but I would like to ask you a question. I am experiencing sleep disturbances due to panic disorder, and I am currently taking Lowen (...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: First of all, thank you for your letter. Lowen (Luo Wei - China Chemical) 0.5 mg and Propranolol (Sandoz) 10 mg can indeed be used to treat panic disorder. If sleep does not improve, some sleeping pills may be added. Additionally, regular exercise and appropriate leisure a...[Read More] Managing Panic Disorder: Understanding Autonomic Dysfunction and Sleep Issues
Understanding Insomnia: Causes, Symptoms, and Mental Health Implications
Symptoms of insomnia? Hello, Doctor. I have some questions I would like to ask you. Thank you for your guidance. 1. What are the causes of insomnia? Is it due to a malfunction in the brain, or is it a temporary physiological issue? If there is discomfort in the head accompanied ...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng reply Psychiatry
Hello: First of all, thank you for your letter. 1. Insomnia can have several causes, including psychological factors such as stress or physiological diseases. The discomfort in your head may feel like a tingling sensation throughout, and cases of parasitic infections are rare; th...[Read More] Understanding Insomnia: Causes, Symptoms, and Mental Health Implications