How to Stay Focused While Quitting Smoking: Tips for Expecting Parents
How can quitting smoking improve concentration? Hello, I have read your response and trust your expertise. I would like to ask... I have been smoking for 9 years, and now that I am working from home, the stress of my work, combined with more time alone, has led to an increase in ...
Dr. Tang Xinbei reply Smoking Cessation
Dear Miss An-An, It seems that you are facing a significant struggle with your desire to quit smoking to avoid harm to the fetus during pregnancy, but your previous attempts have not been successful. You want to use coffee for stimulation, yet you cannot tolerate its side effect...[Read More] How to Stay Focused While Quitting Smoking: Tips for Expecting Parents
Helping a Loved One Overcome Alcohol Addiction: Effective Strategies
How can I help my stubborn uncle quit smoking? Hello Dr. Tang, My friend's father has been drinking alcohol for many years, regardless of the circumstances or situations. We always hope he can drink less, but it seems like he is addicted and finds it very difficult to quit ...
Dr. Tang Xinbei reply Smoking Cessation
Dear Ms. Hsu, I am deeply touched by your concern for your friend's father! Quitting alcohol is a significant challenge, not only for the individual but also for their family and healthcare providers. In clinical practice, we often employ a method known as "motivationa...[Read More] Helping a Loved One Overcome Alcohol Addiction: Effective Strategies
Effective Strategies Beyond Medication for Mental Health Recovery
Some doubts? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about mental illnesses such as panic disorder and depression. Besides medication, what other methods can help accelerate recovery? What should I pay attention to in daily life? Should my diet be controlled? What types of fruits sho...
Dr. Tang Xinbei reply Psychiatry
Dear Andy: The question you asked is quite broad and not easy to answer! Mental illnesses result from the interplay of various internal and external factors, leading to an individual's loss of balance and adaptation. Currently, it is more clearly understood that alcoholics m...[Read More] Effective Strategies Beyond Medication for Mental Health Recovery
Am I Experiencing Anxiety Over College Applications?
Am I suffering from a mental illness? Hello, I recently submitted my application form, but I keep worrying that I filled it out incorrectly. I have double-checked it several times and asked others to review it as well, yet I still fear that I will not be accepted due to a mistake...
Dr. Tang Xinbei reply Psychiatry
Dear Andrew, It seems that you are quite anxious and uncertain. It appears that your past experiences of disappointment and failure have led to a lack of confidence in yourself and a distrust of those around you. Perhaps you are also feeling conflicted, wanting to believe in you...[Read More] Am I Experiencing Anxiety Over College Applications?
Understanding Zyban (Wellbutrin) for Smoking Cessation: Availability and Benefits
The smoking cessation medication Zyban (Wellbutrin) Hello, I recently saw a news report stating that this medication, originally intended for psychiatric treatment, has a supportive effect for smoking cessation. May I ask if this medication is available in all hospitals currently...
Dr. Tang Xinbei reply Smoking Cessation
Dear Ting, You inquired about the smoking cessation medication Zyban (Wellbutrin), which is originally an antidepressant. It has been available in foreign markets for many years and has also been used as an aid for smoking cessation for quite some time. Both indications have alr...[Read More] Understanding Zyban (Wellbutrin) for Smoking Cessation: Availability and Benefits
Understanding Your Sister's Silent Struggles: When to Seek Help
Not speaking for one to two weeks? Hello Doctor: My sister is twenty-seven years old this year. Since her adolescence, she has often gone for one to two weeks (sometimes even longer) without speaking for reasons unknown to us, but her mood returns to normal afterward. However, no...
Dr. Tang Xinbei reply Psychiatry
Dear Jackson, I am touched by your concern for your sister's mental and emotional well-being. Based solely on your description, I can only conclude that she may have a more introverted personality and fewer friends, but I cannot determine whether she has a mental illness. I...[Read More] Understanding Your Sister's Silent Struggles: When to Seek Help
Understanding Withdrawal Symptoms After Quitting Smoking
What symptoms can occur when quitting smoking? I have been smoking for about fifteen years. After I decided to quit smoking, about eight hours after stopping, I experienced a symptom of soreness in my joints, which was very uncomfortable and made it difficult for me to sleep. I a...
Dr. Tang Xinbei reply Smoking Cessation
Dear Xiao Ai, I am very glad that you have not only made the decision to quit smoking but have also started taking action to do so! This is a self-challenge that requires determination and perseverance. Generally, individuals who are addicted to smoking may experience some acute...[Read More] Understanding Withdrawal Symptoms After Quitting Smoking
Long-Term Use of Sleeping Pills: Risks and Alternatives for Better Sleep
Medications I have been using sleeping pills for a long time, and if I don't take them, I can't fall asleep. What should I do? Will it harm my health?
Dr. Tang Xinbei reply Psychiatry
Dear friend: Many people have been using sleeping pills for a long time due to sleep disturbances, and over time, they may find it difficult to sleep without them, which is a form of drug dependence. Although there are no immediate dangers, long-term studies have found that there...[Read More] Long-Term Use of Sleeping Pills: Risks and Alternatives for Better Sleep
Urgent Help Needed: Managing Severe Depression and Panic Symptoms
Emergency issue!!! Please, doctor, help! Dear Doctor, My mother is suffering from what is known as psychotic depression, commonly referred to as "depression." Recently, she has been experiencing involuntary muscle spasms and weakness in her limbs (mild myoclonus), alon...
Dr. Tang Xinbei reply Psychiatry
Dear Mr. Lai Bo-Wen, It is touching and admirable to see your deep concern and worry for your mother. Based on the symptoms you mentioned regarding her condition, it is difficult to definitively determine whether she is experiencing "depression" or "panic disorder...[Read More] Urgent Help Needed: Managing Severe Depression and Panic Symptoms
Understanding Paranoia: Signs, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Paranoid disorder I feel that my interpersonal relationships are not good... Now I feel like people on the street are talking about me... Is this paranoia? I don't really like to communicate with others... Should I see a doctor?
Dr. Tang Xinbei reply Psychiatry
Dear Chihuahua: It seems that you feel that the people around you are treating you poorly, and you may feel some threats? Or do you think others are talking about you or discussing matters related to you, such as criticism, blame, or commands? This may cause you to become more wi...[Read More] Understanding Paranoia: Signs, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Feeling Down and Lost: Understanding Emotional Distress and Seeking Help
I'm sorry, but I need more context or specific content to provide a translation. Could you please provide the text Hello doctor, I have been feeling frequently depressed lately, waking up often during sleep, crying often, and experiencing palpitations. I don't understan...
Dr. Tang Xinbei reply Psychiatry
Dear Jing, It seems like you are feeling quite down. Since you only mentioned a few symptoms without discussing the related potential factors causing them, I cannot make too many assumptions or suggestions. The only advice I can offer is to talk about your feelings of sadness wi...[Read More] Feeling Down and Lost: Understanding Emotional Distress and Seeking Help
Can Structured Water Activities Benefit Children with Autism?
Is aquatic exercise beneficial for children with autism? Dear Doctor: I am currently working as a preschool swimming instructor and would like to know if structured and organized aquatic exercise games can be beneficial for children with autism.
Dr. Tang Xinbei reply Psychiatry
Dear friend: I apologize, but pediatric psychiatry, play therapy, or game therapy is not my area of expertise, and I am unable to provide an answer. I recommend consulting the Child Mental Health Center at National Taiwan University Hospital, the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry D...[Read More] Can Structured Water Activities Benefit Children with Autism?
Should I Return to the Doctor for My Anxiety and Sleep Issues?
excuse me? Hello Doctor: I previously underwent treatment for panic disorder for about two months, but since there was no significant improvement, I stopped taking medication on my own for about six months. During this time, my symptoms remained the same, but I feel somewhat bett...
Dr. Tang Xinbei reply Psychiatry
Dear A-Rong, It seems that you have been trying to manage your panic attacks on your own, and initially, there was some effect, but recently it appears to have worsened? Additionally, you have been feeling more down lately and sense that something is not right and uncomfortable?...[Read More] Should I Return to the Doctor for My Anxiety and Sleep Issues?
Overcoming Neuroticism: Effective Treatments for Nervous System Imbalance
Neurasthenia Due to a previous period of extreme stress, I am now experiencing some symptoms of neurosis. What are some effective treatments to help restore balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, allowing me to return to my previous state without bec...
Dr. Tang Xinbei reply Psychiatry
Dear friend: You have experienced significant life events and stress, which have led to some physical discomfort and emotional distress, but it seems that you are currently past that phase. Since you did not specify your physical and psychological symptoms, it is difficult to ass...[Read More] Overcoming Neuroticism: Effective Treatments for Nervous System Imbalance
Understanding Neurogenic Shock: Causes, Prevention, and Treatment Options
Neurogenic shock Hello Dr. Tang: I found very little information online about neurogenic shock. Could you please explain what neurogenic shock is? What are the prevention and treatment methods? If one does not seek medical attention, what kind of sequelae might occur? Thank you!
Dr. Tang Xinbei reply Psychiatry
Dear friend: You asked about "neurogenic shock," which is a type of shock caused by spinal cord injury or anesthesia leading to the loss of neurogenic reflexes or vascular resistance, resulting in inadequate tissue perfusion. In this condition, the loss of neurological ...[Read More] Understanding Neurogenic Shock: Causes, Prevention, and Treatment Options
Understanding OCD: Symptoms, Treatment Options, and Costs
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Hello, Dr. Tang! Since middle school, I've been experiencing persistent intrusive thoughts about negative events, and these thoughts keep repeating. The same goes for my actions. This has been troubling me for a long time. Could this be ob...
Dr. Tang Xinbei reply Psychiatry
Dear friend: It seems that you have been troubled by one or more persistent thoughts in your mind for a long time, which you cannot seem to eliminate. This has led to behaviors associated with "compulsive thoughts" or attempts to eliminate certain thoughts that recur fr...[Read More] Understanding OCD: Symptoms, Treatment Options, and Costs
Navigating Disability Benefits and Medication Side Effects in Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia Can I apply for disability benefits if I was unemployed and not covered by labor insurance during my schizophrenia episode, and only enrolled in labor insurance a few months after my illness? I am currently taking Seroquel (100mg) and Semi-Nax (10mg) as a sleep aid....
Dr. Tang Xinbei reply Psychiatry
Dear friend: It seems that you are working very hard to overcome your illness, and I admire your courage! Regarding the issue of labor insurance, I cannot provide relevant information; I suggest you directly inquire with the Labor Insurance Bureau or the Labor Affairs Bureau of y...[Read More] Navigating Disability Benefits and Medication Side Effects in Schizophrenia
Should I Quit Smoking? Understanding the Health Risks and Emotional Impact
Should I quit smoking? Hello: When I'm feeling down, I often want to smoke a cigarette to relieve my emotions. If I only smoke one or two cigarettes a day, will it harm my health? Smoking is a form of emotional comfort for me. I once considered quitting for health reasons, b...
Dr. Tang Xinbei reply Smoking Cessation
Dear friend: Many people have a contradictory relationship with smoking; they wish to quit, yet find reasons to continue. Similarly, the desire to quit smoking is also filled with contradictions—people want to stop but have reasons that keep them from doing so! I strongly recomme...[Read More] Should I Quit Smoking? Understanding the Health Risks and Emotional Impact
Understanding the Differences Between Psychiatrists and Psychologists
Please clarify your question? Hello, doctor: Could you please explain the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist? Thank you!
Dr. Tang Xinbei reply Psychiatry
Dear Youyou: Many people often confuse psychiatrists with psychologists. Generally speaking, the former refers to a physician who has a medical license and specializes in psychiatry. The latter typically refers to individuals who can provide psychological therapy or counseling se...[Read More] Understanding the Differences Between Psychiatrists and Psychologists
Understanding the Differences Between Schizophrenia and Dissociative Identity Disorder
What is the difference between schizophrenia and dissociative identity disorder? Hello, doctor. What is the difference between schizophrenia and dissociative identity disorder? Under what circumstances might one develop these conditions? What symptoms are associated with them? Th...
Dr. Tang Xinbei reply Psychiatry
Dear Xiaoyun, Schizophrenia is a group of disorders primarily characterized by disturbances in thought and perception, with multiple and complex etiologies. The onset typically occurs in late adolescence to early adulthood, around the ages of eighteen to twenty-two. Patients oft...[Read More] Understanding the Differences Between Schizophrenia and Dissociative Identity Disorder