Understanding Emotional Instability in Depression: Coping Strategies
Emotional dysregulation I have depression and regularly attend appointments and take medication, but my condition fluctuates. When I'm feeling good, those moments of happiness are very brief, and during the bad times, I often cry all day. I can be happy one moment and then c...
Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry
Hello, Jie: It is normal to feel like crying when you are depressed. Sometimes crying alone in your room can help release emotions, but please do not engage in self-harm. Self-injury often stems from feelings of emptiness and sadness. I recommend reflecting on or writing down wha...[Read More] Understanding Emotional Instability in Depression: Coping Strategies
Understanding Emotional Instability: Coping with Depression and Self-Harm
Emotional instability I often find myself trapped in a state of depression, which makes me contemplate giving up on life. I've been struggling with depression for over a year, and recently I've started engaging in self-harm. When I'm in a depressive episode, self-h...
Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry
Hello: It is recommended to find alternative stress-relief methods to replace self-harm, such as reading, writing, listening to music, chatting, or exercising. Think about the people who care about you. We live not only for ourselves but also for those around us whom we care abou...[Read More] Understanding Emotional Instability: Coping with Depression and Self-Harm
Overcoming Shoe Fetishism: A Journey to Mental Wellness
Foot fetishism for women's boots? Hello Dr. Liang, I have had a shoe fetish for about 10 years, with a particular preference for one color (black), and I find other colors unappealing. Even though I know this is an unhealthy inclination, I still ordered a pair online after t...
Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry
Hello, Ali: It is recommended to develop other interests and hobbies to enjoy the pleasure that comes from acceptable activities, which can help dilute the thoughts related to this obsession. When you find more enjoyment in other activities, the original thoughts will typically d...[Read More] Overcoming Shoe Fetishism: A Journey to Mental Wellness
Should I Resume Antidepressants for Anxiety and Stress Relief?
Should I resume taking antidepressant medication? Hello Doctor: I used to be a patient with panic disorder and took Xanax and Cymbalta for over ten years. However, I gradually stopped taking the medication around last year's Lunar New Year after feeling stable. Initially, th...
Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry
Hello Josephy: It is inevitable to experience anxiety when encountering new changes or stressful situations in life. It is advisable to first identify the sources of anxiety and try to accept that feeling anxious in such circumstances is normal. Then, focus on the tasks that requ...[Read More] Should I Resume Antidepressants for Anxiety and Stress Relief?
Understanding Emotional Instability: Signs, Symptoms, and Solutions
Emotional instability Hello doctor, my mother has often been preoccupied with finding things to do and cannot stop. After finishing one task, she continues to look for other things or engages in meaningless activities (for example, washing the floor in the yard for several hours,...
Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry
Hello: Based on what you have described, it is indeed possible that your mother is unwell. It is advisable to seek medical evaluation and treatment. When encouraging her to see a doctor, approach her with concern and use reasons that she may find more acceptable, such as insomnia...[Read More] Understanding Emotional Instability: Signs, Symptoms, and Solutions
Understanding and Addressing Separation Anxiety in Toddlers
Childhood psychological trauma I am currently separated from my husband and unable to take my child with me. My child is about two years old, and when I take him back to my parents' house on weekends, he often cries in the middle of the night, half-awake, saying he wants to ...
Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry
Hello: Based on what you described, the child has been cared for by you since a young age, and due to their shy personality, there will inevitably be a period of anxiety when separated from their mother. Since the child is still young, it will take some time for them to adjust. I...[Read More] Understanding and Addressing Separation Anxiety in Toddlers
Understanding Emotional Distress: When to Seek Help for Depression
Emotional issues I suffer from severe depression, and this week I've often felt uncomfortable emotionally, almost to the point of crying whenever I think about it. It feels like a heaviness in my chest. Should I see a cardiologist, or how can I address this emotional discomf...
Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry
Hello: You might want to think about what is making you feel sad, and it can help to write down your feelings. Sometimes, this can make you feel a bit better. Don't worry too much about wanting to cry; it's important to accept your emotions, and often, after crying, you...[Read More] Understanding Emotional Distress: When to Seek Help for Depression
Finding Balance: Navigating Emotional Exhaustion in Friendships
My heart feels exhausted and troubled? When a friend is struggling in life, I often send messages to offer support. However, if my response isn't what they want, they may not reply, and then they complain again when they think of it, which can be exhausting. I feel guilty fo...
Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry
Hello: Take care of yourself first, so that you have the ability to help others. When a friend reaches out to you for help via text, responding seriously is already fulfilling your duty as a friend; their satisfaction is indeed beyond your control. I suspect you are just one of m...[Read More] Finding Balance: Navigating Emotional Exhaustion in Friendships
Understanding Night Sweats: The Impact of Citalopram and Risperidone
Medication Issues: Antidepressants Hello Doctor, Thank you for taking the time to respond amidst your busy schedule. I started taking antidepressants around September of last year. Initially, I was prescribed sertraline, but I had an adverse reaction, so I switched to citalopram...
Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry
Hello: Side effects caused by medication may gradually diminish as the body adapts, but if discomfort persists, it is advisable to schedule an earlier follow-up appointment with your physician for a safer discussion. Wishing you well.[Read More] Understanding Night Sweats: The Impact of Citalopram and Risperidone
How to Support an Emotionally Unstable Father Without Losing Yourself
If your father is experiencing emotional instability, here are some ways to help him without letting it affect you: 1. **Set Boundaries**: Clearly define what behaviors you can tolerate and what you cannot. This helps protect your emotional well-being. 2. **Practice Self-Care**...
Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry
Hello: Issues related to personality and temper are not easy to change, but change is not impossible. To initiate change, it is essential to first understand the situation. Your analysis and speculations may have some relevance. The best approach is to help your father become awa...[Read More] How to Support an Emotionally Unstable Father Without Losing Yourself
Is It Anxiety or Hypochondria? Understanding Your Symptoms
Is this situation related to anxiety or hypochondria? Hello Dr. Liang, two years ago, I suddenly woke up in the middle of the night during winter, feeling a heat in my chest and a rapid heartbeat, as if my heart was about to jump out. This had never happened to me before, and it ...
Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry
Hello Lia: It is advisable to first accept the fact that you have mild arrhythmia. When discomfort occurs, reassure yourself that you have safely navigated through this multiple times before and that you will be fine. Then, shift your focus to other things. Even if worries return...[Read More] Is It Anxiety or Hypochondria? Understanding Your Symptoms
Managing Performance Anxiety: Should You Combine Xanax and Propranolol?
Medication consultation I am a piano student, but I get particularly nervous every time I perform on stage, my heart races, and my hands feel cold. I have an exam coming up, so I consulted a psychiatrist who prescribed me "ALPRAZOLAM" (Xanax 0.5mg) and "PROPRANOLOL...
Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry
Hello Mr. Chen: If Xanax is ineffective, you may switch to propranolol, which has better control over heart rate. If issues persist, it is recommended to return for a follow-up consultation with your physician. Best wishes to you.[Read More] Managing Performance Anxiety: Should You Combine Xanax and Propranolol?
Understanding Panic Attacks: Coping with Nighttime Fear and Anxiety
I would like to ask if this situation is indicative of panic disorder? Hello, doctor. This situation has occurred 2 to 3 times over the past two years. I suddenly wake up in the middle of the night feeling very scared, but there is no specific object or thing that I am afraid of;...
Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry
Hello: Generally, benign fears or anxieties tend to improve over time. You can try to soothe yourself by reminding yourself that this experience has been encountered before and that it will pass after a while. Then, shift your focus to other people or things. If the symptoms pers...[Read More] Understanding Panic Attacks: Coping with Nighttime Fear and Anxiety
Understanding the Connection Between Anxiety and GERD Symptoms
Anxiety-related gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) Hello Doctor: I was diagnosed with anxiety disorder two years ago and have been taking medication for it. Currently, I take one tablet of Clonazepam 37.5 mg after dinner every day. My doctor told me that I cannot stop this me...
Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry
Hello: Emotions and gastrointestinal symptoms can potentially influence each other. When experiencing low mood and high stress, gastrointestinal symptoms may worsen. Conversely, discomfort in the gastrointestinal tract can also lead to feelings of low mood. It is advisable to dis...[Read More] Understanding the Connection Between Anxiety and GERD Symptoms
Understanding Sleep Disturbances: Frequent Tossing and Talking in Sleep
Recently, I have been tossing and turning in my sleep and talking in my sleep? Since I started college, my roommates often tell me that I toss and turn a lot during the night, and that I move quite vigorously. I usually go to bed around midnight to 1 AM, but my roommates say they...
Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry
Hello, Xiao Zhang: Some individuals may have a predisposition to sleep talking or sleepwalking, especially when they have a lot going on during the day or are under significant stress. Certain medications can indeed cause sleep disturbances; however, if these issues were present ...[Read More] Understanding Sleep Disturbances: Frequent Tossing and Talking in Sleep
Understanding Sexual Orientation: Navigating Confusion and Seeking Help
Sexual orientation confusion Hello Doctor, I have clearly known since the first year of junior high that I am attracted to boys and have desires for them. However, I feel no sexual interest in women's bodies and even have averse feelings towards them. Is it possible that I m...
Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry
Hello: Your concerns may need to be assessed and clarified in person. If it is truly distressing, you may consider visiting a psychosomatic medicine or psychiatry outpatient clinic to discuss and consult with a physician. Wishing you the best.[Read More] Understanding Sexual Orientation: Navigating Confusion and Seeking Help
Understanding Panic Attacks: Symptoms and Self-Harm Concerns
Is it panic disorder? Hello doctor, on December 29th while I was at work, I suddenly felt very upset and wanted to cry. Later, I felt like I couldn't breathe. I was taking deep breaths forcefully, and before long, I seemed to lose control, biting and pinching the back of my ...
Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry
Hello Abby: Typical panic attacks usually do not involve thoughts of self-harm. At that moment, you may feel very agitated, but it is advisable to calm yourself down and slowly reflect on what events or thoughts are making you feel uncomfortable. Both depression and panic can man...[Read More] Understanding Panic Attacks: Symptoms and Self-Harm Concerns
Managing Mental Health: Should I See a Specialist or Self-Treat?
What should I do? Hello, doctor. I am the person who asked question #131783. Should I follow your advice for a week, or should I first see a psychiatrist or a similar specialist? I feel that my symptoms are worsening, but I am afraid that if I see a doctor and get prescribed medi...
Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry
Hello: If you are concerned, you can seek medical attention first. A visit does not necessarily mean that medication will be prescribed; even if medication is prescribed, most situations do not lead to dependency. The best way to interrupt anxiety is to break the negative cycle w...[Read More] Managing Mental Health: Should I See a Specialist or Self-Treat?
Delusions or Obsessive Thoughts? Understanding Anxiety Symptoms
Is it a delusion or obsessive thinking? Hello, doctor. I have anxiety disorder, and I often worry that I might develop schizophrenia, and this worry is uncontrollable. I have been constantly searching online for symptoms of mental illness, which has led me to frequently think abo...
Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry
Hello: The symptoms of anxiety disorder include endless worrying, which may also involve concerns about having other more serious illnesses. If you can still recognize that the thoughts of being harmed are unreasonable, it likely has not reached the level of delusion. However, pr...[Read More] Delusions or Obsessive Thoughts? Understanding Anxiety Symptoms
Effective Ways to Calm Down After Watching Scary Animations
How to Calm Down After Watching a Scary Animation I recently watched a terrifying animated show, and the images are haunting me. (I'm the type who wants to watch but can't handle the fear afterward.) I would like to know if there are any effective methods to calm myself...
Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry
Hello: These persistent images will take some time to gradually fade away, and usually, each day will be a little better than the last. During this period, it is advisable to engage in other activities to distract yourself and dilute these images with different life experiences. ...[Read More] Effective Ways to Calm Down After Watching Scary Animations