Understanding Sleep Talking: When to Seek Help for Sleep Disorders
Sleep talking I have been talking in my sleep frequently since I was quite young, and I occasionally sleepwalk and kick or punch. Now, I only talk in my sleep (almost every day), and the content usually involves cursing. I am not aware of it, but my sister, who sleeps next to me,...
Dr. Zhan Jiaxiang reply Psychiatry
Dear Sir/Madam, Talking in one's sleep occurs because certain areas of the brain remain active during deep sleep. Occasional sleep talking is generally considered a normal physiological phenomenon, as long as you feel well-rested, have sufficient energy during the day, and ...[Read More] Understanding Sleep Talking: When to Seek Help for Sleep Disorders
Struggling with Addiction: A Journey from K-Hole to Recovery
I want to quit ketamine and "bath salts." Hello, doctor. I'm really sorry; it's all my fault. When I was young, I entered society early at 17 and got involved with the wrong crowd. Back then, I was young and had no connections, so my friends were mostly those ...
Dr. Zhan Jiaxiang reply Psychiatry
Hello, based on your description, you have previously used ketamine and, in an attempt to quit it, started using caffeine, which has led to greater difficulties. Since drugs can cause various levels of damage to the brain, using a second substance to quit the first often does not...[Read More] Struggling with Addiction: A Journey from K-Hole to Recovery
Can I Take Sertraline with SNRI? Understanding Drug Interactions
Medication consultation Can I take Zoloft (sertraline) while I am on an SNRI? Are there any interactions?
Dr. Zhan Jiaxiang reply Psychiatry
Hello, the two medications you mentioned do not have any significant pharmacological interactions, so they can be used together in clinical practice as needed based on the patient's condition. If you have any concerns about the medications, it is advisable to consult the pre...[Read More] Can I Take Sertraline with SNRI? Understanding Drug Interactions
Understanding Gender Identity Issues: A Journey from Childhood to Adulthood
This issue started at the age of 10? Since I was 10 years old, I had an experience of secretly wearing my sister's dress. Now at 20, I often fantasize about being a cute girl and engaging in intimate activities with boys. Sometimes, I feel an inexplicable envy when I see oth...
Dr. Zhan Jiaxiang reply Psychiatry
Hello Mr. Lin: With the accumulation and review of clinical experience and research, the incongruence between personal gender identity and biological sex is no longer considered pathological and is moving towards depathologization. The fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statisti...[Read More] Understanding Gender Identity Issues: A Journey from Childhood to Adulthood
Overcoming OCD: A Journey Towards Mental Health and Stability
I have severe obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)? Hello, doctor. I am a patient with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). I am 35 years old, unmarried, and have been in a relationship with my girlfriend for 16 years. Currently, I am unemployed and at home. I really want to quick...
Dr. Zhan Jiaxiang reply Psychiatry
Hello: Your symptoms are causing you significant distress, and your proactive approach to addressing them by seeking treatment from a psychiatrist is an excellent strategy. Current research evidence indicates that taking appropriate medication and undergoing cognitive behavioral ...[Read More] Overcoming OCD: A Journey Towards Mental Health and Stability
Can Long-Term Use of Controlled Release Tablets Be Safe for Epilepsy?
Can enteric-coated tablets be taken long-term? Hello, doctor! My husband experienced a sudden full-body seizure three months ago, with his eyes rolling back, lasting about 1-2 minutes, and he has no memory of this episode. The tests showed no abnormalities, but he did have a feve...
Dr. Zhan Jiaxiang reply Psychiatry
Hello: 1. The use of this medication should be assessed by a physician based on individual patient conditions to determine if long-term use is appropriate or necessary. For patients with renal impairment, dosage adjustments are required. In patients with severe hepatic impairme...[Read More] Can Long-Term Use of Controlled Release Tablets Be Safe for Epilepsy?
Overcoming Stage Fright: From Performer to Avoidance
I’m not very confident standing on stage, but I used to be? I have studied dance and often perform on stage. I also participate in a hip-hop dance club at school, which provides many opportunities to perform. I really enjoy dancing on stage, but recently, I have become increasing...
Dr. Zhan Jiaxiang reply Psychiatry
Hello Jessica, Good day. From your letter, I understand that you have been facing some difficulties recently, such as feeling afraid and sensitive about standing on stage, being anxious in crowds, and avoiding public events. Since there are many potential causes for similar situ...[Read More] Overcoming Stage Fright: From Performer to Avoidance
Coping with a Family Member's Mental Health Issues: Seeking Help and Support
A family member has a mental illness? My brother often takes out his anger on our parents. When he was younger, he experienced physical punishment from them, but that was only during elementary and middle school. He has held onto those memories and remains unfriendly towards them...
Dr. Zhan Jiaxiang reply Psychiatry
Hello, Xi: Regarding the concerns you mentioned, it would be advisable to encourage your brother to seek an evaluation at a nearby psychiatric clinic or mental health facility. There are many potential causes for poor mental health or emotional instability, and a clearer understa...[Read More] Coping with a Family Member's Mental Health Issues: Seeking Help and Support
Understanding Amphetamine Abuse: Managing Anger and Mental Health Concerns
Substance abuse Hello, doctor. Recently, my family discovered that my husband has been using methamphetamine for about 2 to 3 years. He has lost control of his temper and becomes enraged under pressure. We are concerned that he may have sustained brain damage, but he claims he do...
Dr. Zhan Jiaxiang reply Psychiatry
Hello, 米粒: For patients who have been using (meth)amphetamine long-term and frequently, withdrawal symptoms are quite common, and the duration of these symptoms may last up to 3 to 4 weeks. Depression, anxiety, and irritability are symptoms that can easily occur during the withdr...[Read More] Understanding Amphetamine Abuse: Managing Anger and Mental Health Concerns
How to Apply for Involuntary Treatment for a Family Member with Mental Health Issues
Family members are unable to cooperate with treatment? My brother has claimed to have insomnia issues for the past eight years and has sought medical assistance. He was diagnosed with neurasthenia, but he reported that the medications prescribed by the doctor did not improve his ...
Dr. Zhan Jiaxiang reply Psychiatry
Hello: If your family member is exhibiting agitated emotions and disruptive behavior due to suspected mental instability, and there is a risk of self-harm or harm to others, it is recommended to contact the local fire department. Emergency personnel can assist in transporting you...[Read More] How to Apply for Involuntary Treatment for a Family Member with Mental Health Issues
Understanding Your Symptoms: Dysautonomia, Depression, or Bipolar Disorder?
Is it autonomic nervous system dysfunction, depression, or bipolar disorder? Hello Dr. Jan, I really don't know what my condition is. I have trouble sleeping at night, my throat hurts, my whole body aches, and I often feel like I have a terminal illness. I'm losing moti...
Dr. Zhan Jiaxiang reply Psychiatry
Dear Ms. Chen: Based on the symptoms you described, it seems that you may be experiencing issues related to depression and anxiety, which are also accompanied by physical discomfort. These symptoms could be related to various factors such as life stress and changes in your enviro...[Read More] Understanding Your Symptoms: Dysautonomia, Depression, or Bipolar Disorder?
Where to Seek Treatment for Alcohol Addiction: Options and Resources
Where can one seek treatment for alcohol addiction? Where can alcohol addiction be treated? What are the different treatment options available?
Dr. Zhan Jiaxiang reply Psychiatry
Hello: It is recommended that you first call the local health bureau of your city or county for consultation, as the relevant personnel will be happy to provide information about medical resources. Alternatively, you can visit a general hospital or a psychiatric specialty hospita...[Read More] Where to Seek Treatment for Alcohol Addiction: Options and Resources