Understanding Unexplained Fatigue: Insights from Psychiatry
Unable to identify the cause of fatigue? Due to feelings of low mood and stress, I had seen a psychiatrist for several years in the past. For the past seven to eight years, I have been experiencing fatigue issues. When severe, I suffer from hypersomnia and weakness, feeling so fa...
Dr. Wang Yaoting reply Psychiatry
Hello: Based on your description, it is possible that you are experiencing symptoms of autonomic nervous system dysregulation, with excessive activation of the parasympathetic nervous system during the day leading to fatigue and lack of energy. I would recommend making the follow...[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Fatigue: Insights from Psychiatry
Can Outpatient Referrals Lead to Admission at Rehabilitation Centers?
Can patients directly schedule an admission to the rehabilitation center at your hospital through outpatient services? I have been receiving treatment at the Tao Therapy Clinic for the past three months. Previously, I was hospitalized at Shin Kong, Chang Gung, and Songde for acut...
Dr. Wang Yaoting reply Psychiatry
Hello: Our rehabilitation center is primarily managed by the social work department. You can start with an initial consultation at the outpatient clinic, where a physician will assess your condition. It is best to bring along your past medical records. After that, a social worker...[Read More] Can Outpatient Referrals Lead to Admission at Rehabilitation Centers?
Can You Gradually Reduce Aripiprazole Dosage Safely?
Lianhua Qingwen medication issues? Hello, doctor: Do I have to take 15 mg of ARIPIPRAZOLE every day, or can I gradually reduce the dosage? I found that there is also a 5 mg ARIPIPRAZOLE available. Is it possible to gradually adjust to just 5 mg a day or eventually stop taking the...
Dr. Wang Yaoting reply Psychiatry
Hello: ARIPIPRAZOLE is available in various formulations (5mg, 10mg, 20mg, 30mg). Generally, different psychiatric disorders have different recommended dosages, typically ranging from 5 to 30mg per day. The dosage of the medication will vary based on each individual's condit...[Read More] Can You Gradually Reduce Aripiprazole Dosage Safely?
Managing Low Libido from Antidepressants: Solutions Beyond Switching Medications
Medications causing decreased libido? Hello, doctor: I would like to ask about the decreased libido caused by taking the antidepressant Escitalopram, which has even affected my romantic life. Besides switching medications, what other methods can help resolve this issue? (I have t...
Dr. Wang Yaoting reply Psychiatry
Hello: Antidepressants can indeed cause decreased libido or sexual dysfunction in some individuals. In addition to switching medications, considering psychotherapy or cognitive behavioral therapy may also be beneficial. This issue should typically be discussed with your psychiatr...[Read More] Managing Low Libido from Antidepressants: Solutions Beyond Switching Medications
Understanding the Risks of SSRIs: A Guide for Patients with Liver Concerns
SSRI Issues Hello, Doctor. A few years ago, I sought treatment for anxiety and obsessive thinking issues. Initially, I tried several medications, and after finding a suitable one, I have been taking Paroxetine HCl Hemihydrate 20mg as prescribed, one tablet at bedtime. However, I ...
Dr. Wang Yaoting reply Psychiatry
Hello: I checked the research article mentioned in the news, and it studied individuals with a history of cerebral hemorrhage rather than generally healthy people. The average age of the participants was around 71 years, which is quite different from your situation, so there is n...[Read More] Understanding the Risks of SSRIs: A Guide for Patients with Liver Concerns
Understanding and Addressing Stealing Behavior in Elementary School Children
Elementary school children with a stealing addiction? My son is in the fourth grade this year. During the summer after he graduated from first grade to second grade, I discovered for the first time that he had stolen snacks from a convenience store. I took him to apologize to the...
Dr. Wang Yaoting reply Psychiatry
Hello: If your child is repeatedly struggling with stealing and there has been no improvement, it is understandable that you, as a caregiver, may feel a significant sense of helplessness. I recommend that you first manage your own emotions to avoid letting them affect your intera...[Read More] Understanding and Addressing Stealing Behavior in Elementary School Children
Understanding Anxiety and Social Withdrawal: Seeking Help for Mental Health
Unsure if there is an illness? Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask you something. During my school years, I was very sociable, but after graduating and moving to northern Taiwan to work in Taipei without any friends or family, I experienced emotional setbacks and job changes. Grad...
Dr. Wang Yaoting reply Psychiatry
Hello: You don't need to worry about making a big deal out of your situation when scheduling an appointment with a mental health specialist. If you feel the need, go for a consultation, just like you would for a cold. Poor mental and physical health may be caused by hormonal...[Read More] Understanding Anxiety and Social Withdrawal: Seeking Help for Mental Health
Understanding Medication Side Effects: Breast Discharge from Psychiatric Drugs
Medication consultation and medication-related issues? I have been taking Lepax 10mg and Sulmaty 50mg continuously for almost a month, and I noticed nipple discharge in the past couple of days. Could this be related to the medication?
Dr. Wang Yaoting reply Psychiatry
Hello: A small number of individuals taking certain psychiatric medications may experience an increase in prolactin levels, leading to milk secretion. It is recommended to first undergo a blood test at the hospital to check for elevated prolactin levels, and then discuss with you...[Read More] Understanding Medication Side Effects: Breast Discharge from Psychiatric Drugs
Understanding Voices in Your Head: Signs of Mental Health Issues
I am not sure if I have a mental illness? I often hear voices in my mind that I believe are self-talk, but the messages are negative, such as (how pathetic you are) (look at you, so pitiful, always making mistakes, you just lack ability) (hey, why haven't you gone and killed...
Dr. Wang Yaoting reply Psychiatry
Hello: It may be necessary to determine whether the voices you hear are more like thoughts in your mind or sensations similar to sounds you hear with your ears. Additionally, consider when the voices occur. Are there any accompanying symptoms? Do they affect your studies or work?...[Read More] Understanding Voices in Your Head: Signs of Mental Health Issues
Understanding Buspirone and Its Relation to Extrapyramidal Symptoms
Epidural Steroid Injection Syndrome Hello, Doctor: The doctor prescribed a medication called Buspirone, to be taken once in the morning and once at night. I found out that it is a selective 5-HT1A receptor agonist with mild dopamine antagonist properties. I'm not very famili...
Dr. Wang Yaoting reply Psychiatry
Hello: Typically, only antipsychotic medications are more likely to cause extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS). Buspirone primarily functions as an anxiolytic and generally does not induce EPS. Research reports have only indicated that Buspirone, when used in conjunction with other psyc...[Read More] Understanding Buspirone and Its Relation to Extrapyramidal Symptoms
Overcoming Intrusive Thoughts: Managing Anxiety and Fear of Illness
Frequent daydreaming or excessive rumination? Hello, I previously watched a movie about cerebellar atrophy. Recently, I've noticed that whenever I think about serious illnesses that can be fatal, I can't help but imagine what would happen if I were to get them, or I fee...
Dr. Wang Yaoting reply Psychiatry
Hello: I suggest that you keep a daily journal to express your feelings, exercise 3-5 times a week for about 30 minutes each session, get plenty of sunlight, and maintain a balanced diet. Also, try to shift your focus to activities that bring you joy, such as shopping, reading, w...[Read More] Overcoming Intrusive Thoughts: Managing Anxiety and Fear of Illness
Why Do I Feel Tired and Sleepy After Waking Up?
Feeling sleepy after waking up in the morning? Dr. Wang: I feel very tired and want to sleep about an hour after I wake up in the morning. This happens every day, even when I haven't used my phone the night before, and I have good and sufficient sleep, going to bed around mi...
Dr. Wang Yaoting reply Psychiatry
Hello: Based on your description, it is possible that you are experiencing symptoms of autonomic nervous system dysregulation. In the morning, excessive activation of the parasympathetic nervous system may lead to a lack of energy, while in the evening, when you should be resting...[Read More] Why Do I Feel Tired and Sleepy After Waking Up?
Managing OCD and Anxiety: Natural Remedies and Supplements
I'm sorry, but I need specific content to translate. Please provide the text you would like me to translate into English? Hi Dr. Wang: I previously had obsessive-compulsive disorder and stopped my medication for about two months. 1. Recently, I've been experiencing gast...
Dr. Wang Yaoting reply Psychiatry
Hello: Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can involve intrusive thoughts and accompanying compulsive behaviors, leading to significant anxiety. It's important not to dismiss pharmacological treatment; serotonin-based medications have been shown to be the most effective in c...[Read More] Managing OCD and Anxiety: Natural Remedies and Supplements
Overcoming Excessive Worry: Strategies for Managing Anxiety During COVID-19
Often excessively worried? Hello, doctor. Recently, during the pandemic, I've been constantly worried that I might overthink certain behaviors or small things. Even though I know theoretically that I'm just overreacting or thinking too much, I often find myself worrying...
Dr. Wang Yaoting reply Psychiatry
Hello: Based on your description, if you find yourself excessively worried, fearful, and anxious about certain matters, and if these symptoms occur suddenly, it may be clinically suspected as Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) or anxiety disorders caused by other physical condit...[Read More] Overcoming Excessive Worry: Strategies for Managing Anxiety During COVID-19
Managing OCD Symptoms During the Pandemic: Finding Balance in Hygiene
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) has worsened during the pandemic? Hello, I would like to ask a question about obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD): I started seeing a doctor for OCD in October 2018, primarily with symptoms of fear of dirt. During this time, the doctor graduall...
Dr. Wang Yaoting reply Psychiatry
Hello: Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) involves obsessions, which are intrusive thoughts, and compulsions, which are repetitive behaviors. There are many types of obsessive thoughts, and they can lead to significant anxiety. It's important not to dismiss medication; sero...[Read More] Managing OCD Symptoms During the Pandemic: Finding Balance in Hygiene
Understanding Intrusive Thoughts: Coping with Anxiety and OCD Symptoms
I previously asked (#178901) whether this can be considered "obsessive thinking" within the context of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)? Hello, Doctor: Last semester, due to the stress of preparing for exams, I came across information online suggesting that masturbat...
Dr. Wang Yaoting reply Psychiatry
Hello: I apologize for the late response. The definition of obsessive thoughts in obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) refers to the presence of unwanted, repetitive thoughts, images, or impulses that a person experiences. For example, a persistent fear of dirtiness may lead to ir...[Read More] Understanding Intrusive Thoughts: Coping with Anxiety and OCD Symptoms
Understanding Psychological Symptoms: When to Seek Psychiatric Help
Psychological symptoms Hello, doctor. Recently, I have been experiencing restlessness, extreme anxiety, difficulty concentrating, mood swings, insomnia, a heavy feeling in my head, tinnitus, dizziness, frequent urination, and even thoughts of self-harm. I'm not sure which sp...
Dr. Wang Yaoting reply Psychiatry
Hello: If this is the first time experiencing such symptoms, it is recommended to first visit the internal medicine or otolaryngology department for a general examination regarding the discomfort (tinnitus, dizziness, frequent urination). If most results are normal or only show m...[Read More] Understanding Psychological Symptoms: When to Seek Psychiatric Help
Helping a Family Member with Suspected Schizophrenia: Tips for Encouragement
Inquiry on behalf of a family member - Schizophrenia? My mother exhibits symptoms suggestive of schizophrenia, such as fixed delusions, auditory hallucinations, disorganized thinking, and a loss of interest in daily activities. These behaviors have become more pronounced since th...
Dr. Wang Yaoting reply Psychiatry
Hello: Your mother is experiencing such conditions, and it's understandable that the family is worried and distressed about how to help her. If the psychiatric symptoms appeared suddenly, it is important to first rule out any physical causes (such as thyroid dysfunction) or ...[Read More] Helping a Family Member with Suspected Schizophrenia: Tips for Encouragement
Managing Anxiety and Intrusive Thoughts: A Guide for Students
Psychological counseling Hello, Doctor: Last semester, due to the stress of preparing for exams, I came across information online suggesting that masturbation could relieve stress, so I started to try it. Since then, I have been masturbating whenever I feel the urge. Recently, I ...
Dr. Wang Yaoting reply Psychiatry
Hello: Everyone is born with sexual needs and impulses, which typically diminish with age, but some individuals may not experience this decline, or it may even worsen. If such thoughts occur occasionally without affecting normal life, work, or interpersonal relationships, it can ...[Read More] Managing Anxiety and Intrusive Thoughts: A Guide for Students
Understanding Tardive Dyskinesia: Treatment Options and Self-Management
Delayed onset motor difficulties (TD) I have been taking Seroquel at Far Eastern Memorial Hospital's psychiatry department for a year, but I developed severe tardive dyskinesia (TD), characterized by grimacing, tongue protrusion, and lip smacking, along with constant lip mov...
Dr. Wang Yaoting reply Psychiatry
Tardive dyskinesia (TD) may occur due to long-term use of antipsychotic medications, leading to hyperfunction of dopamine in the brain regions that control movement, which results in hyperkinetic movements in certain body parts and subsequently causes movement disorders. The prim...[Read More] Understanding Tardive Dyskinesia: Treatment Options and Self-Management