Understanding Nighttime Emotional Disturbances: Is It a Mental Health Issue?
My brother exhibited unusual emotional behavior throughout the night while sleeping? My brother is 39 years old this year. Due to work stress and family pressure, he has been in constant conflict with our father, who criticizes him whenever they meet, pointing out various aspects...
Dr. Zhang Fangrong reply Psychiatry
Dear Sir/Madam, Thank you for your inquiry. Based on the process you described, it seems that your brother was in a deep sleep during the rapid eye movement (REM) phase, which is typically associated with dreaming. However, you mentioned that this state "lasted continuously...[Read More] Understanding Nighttime Emotional Disturbances: Is It a Mental Health Issue?
Struggling with Loneliness: Understanding Depression and Its Impact
Feeling persistently lonely? I have been feeling very depressed since last September. Previously, I would only experience this in the second half of the year, but this time it has persisted until March, and I don't know why I feel unhappy every day. Nothing seems to motivate...
Dr. Zhang Fangrong reply Psychiatry
Dear Sir/Madam, Based on your description, I can sense the changes in your mood, including feelings of lethargy, unhappiness, lack of motivation, and a general sense of gloom. I would suggest that you try sharing and discussing your feelings with one or two friends around you. E...[Read More] Struggling with Loneliness: Understanding Depression and Its Impact
Understanding Long-Term Effects of Psychiatric Medications on Sleep and Wakefulness
Medication Consultation Hello Doctor: I have been taking psychiatric medication for five years, during which I have switched between many different medications because I couldn't adapt to them and felt worse instead. Currently, I take half a tablet of Mirtazapine before bed,...
Dr. Zhang Fangrong reply Psychiatry
Dear Sir/Madam, Based on your description, you have had nine hours of sleep from 11 PM to 8 AM, which should be sufficient. However, you are having difficulty getting up in the morning. Although the dosages of the medications you are taking are not high and most of them are shor...[Read More] Understanding Long-Term Effects of Psychiatric Medications on Sleep and Wakefulness
Understanding Serotonin Medications: Dosage, Side Effects, and Alternatives
Serotonin medications Hello, doctor, thank you for your response! I have some more questions to ask you... Is it possible to start taking serotonin medication at a low dose, such as one-fourth of a pill, and gradually increase it? If so, will the body slowly adapt to the side eff...
Dr. Zhang Fangrong reply Psychiatry
Dear Sir/Madam, Thank you for your inquiry and for your message. When using medication, starting at a low dose can relatively reduce the occurrence of side effects. Of course, some individuals may still not be suitable for certain medications, which is why I recommend exploring ...[Read More] Understanding Serotonin Medications: Dosage, Side Effects, and Alternatives
Understanding Serotonin Medications: Why They May Not Work for Everyone
Serotonin-related medications Doctor, is it true that about one in ten people cannot use serotonin-related medications? I have autonomic nervous system dysfunction along with panic attacks! I experience palpitations, unstable blood pressure, chest pain, shortness of breath, dizzi...
Dr. Zhang Fangrong reply Psychiatry
Dear Sir/Madam, Thank you for your inquiry and for your message. I understand that autonomic nervous system dysregulation combined with panic attacks can be quite uncomfortable for you. You also mentioned that you have had an adverse experience with secondary serotonin treatment...[Read More] Understanding Serotonin Medications: Why They May Not Work for Everyone
Understanding Your Boyfriend's Sleep Talking: A Guide to Support
When my boyfriend falls asleep, another version of him appears? When I first became friends with my boyfriend, I noticed that he had a strong sense of responsibility. After we started dating, I discovered that he often wakes up after falling asleep and wants me to talk to him. Th...
Dr. Zhang Fangrong reply Psychiatry
Dear Sir/Madam, Thank you for your inquiry. Based on the process you described, I suggest keeping a simple record of the important moments when your boyfriend wakes up. Typically, during this stage, he may be in a sleep state and will not engage in complete conversations. You ca...[Read More] Understanding Your Boyfriend's Sleep Talking: A Guide to Support
Understanding Anxiety: When to Seek Help for Emotional Distress
Stress issues Hello, doctor. Recently, I have found myself repeatedly ruminating over a situation where I did not perform well and was blamed by others. This has led to intense feelings of guilt and anxiety, to the point where I often find myself biting my tongue or lips. At nigh...
Dr. Zhang Fangrong reply Psychiatry
Dear Sir/Madam, Thank you for your inquiry. From your description, I can sense your emotions and discomfort, as well as your recent health concerns that have been causing you worry. If your anxiety and discomfort are significantly troubling you, I would recommend seeking an eval...[Read More] Understanding Anxiety: When to Seek Help for Emotional Distress
Struggling with Focus: When to Seek Help from Mental Health Professionals
Difficulty concentrating? Hello, Doctor. I am 26 years old and work in an office. I have been troubled by a condition since childhood; when someone speaks to me, I only hear one word or keyword from their sentence and cannot fully grasp the meaning of the entire statement. I then...
Dr. Zhang Fangrong reply Psychiatry
I recommend that you first visit a psychiatrist for an initial evaluation. It would be best to have the doctor refer you to a psychologist for a comprehensive psychological assessment to identify the underlying issues. After that, you can discuss the subsequent treatment plan, wh...[Read More] Struggling with Focus: When to Seek Help from Mental Health Professionals
Understanding ADHD: Evaluation and Testing Process Explained
ADHD leads to difficulties in maintaining focus? Hello, doctor. Recently, I noticed an introduction to ADHD in the news. I find that I closely match the symptoms related to inattention. I am not inquiring whether I have this condition; I just want to know what assessments or test...
Dr. Zhang Fangrong reply Psychiatry
Dear Sir/Madam, If you are assessing adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), the evaluation can include self-report scales as well as assessments conducted by a psychologist. The report will be compiled by the psychologist, and it will take approximately 1-2 weeks...[Read More] Understanding ADHD: Evaluation and Testing Process Explained
Concerns About Overdosing on 54mg of Concerta: What You Need to Know
Overdose of Dexamethasone 54mg? Hello Doctor: I have been taking medication for attention deficit for four years, and my weight is 48 kg. Recently, I have been taking 36 mg of Dexedrine for the past three months, but I switched to 54 mg of Dexedrine. I take one Dexedrine on an em...
Dr. Zhang Fangrong reply Psychiatry
Dear Sir/Madam, According to current knowledge regarding drug reactions, the peak plasma concentration of the medication is reached 6-8 hours after administration, after which the plasma concentration gradually decreases. Therefore, theoretically, by the next day, the drug conce...[Read More] Concerns About Overdosing on 54mg of Concerta: What You Need to Know
Dealing with Frequent Sexual Fantasies About Others: A Mental Health Perspective
If you frequently have sexual fantasies about the opposite sex, it's important to understand that such thoughts are a normal part of human sexuality. Here are a few suggestions on how to manage these fantasies: 1. **Acknowledge Your Feelings I find myself frequently having ...
Dr. Zhang Fangrong reply Psychiatry
Hello: From your letter, I can certainly sense your stress, worries, and discomfort. Given the noticeable impact on your well-being, learning, and interpersonal interactions, I recommend considering a conversation with the school’s counseling psychologist or seeking an evaluation...[Read More] Dealing with Frequent Sexual Fantasies About Others: A Mental Health Perspective
Can Patients with Schizophrenia Use Accessible Transport to NTU Hospital?
Can individuals with severe mental illness use a rehabilitation bus or accessible taxi to travel from Pingtung to National Taiwan University Hospital? Can a person with severe schizophrenia take a rehabilitation bus or an accessible taxi from Pingtung to National Taiwan Universit...
Dr. Zhang Fangrong reply Psychiatry
Dear Sir/Madam, Thank you for your message. On behalf of the hospital, I would like to respond to your inquiry. Regarding your concerns about taking the rehabilitation bus, I recommend that you consult with the Social Affairs Bureau or the Social Services Division for assistance...[Read More] Can Patients with Schizophrenia Use Accessible Transport to NTU Hospital?
Understanding Emotional Instability: Symptoms and Coping Strategies
Emotional instability refers to a range of symptoms that can include mood swings, irritability, anxiety, and difficulty managing emotions. Individuals may experience rapid changes in their emotional state, feeling very happy one moment and very sad or angry the next. This conditi...
Dr. Zhang Fangrong reply Psychiatry
Dear Sir/Madam, Based on your described experience, I can clearly sense the discomfort you are feeling in your dormitory. I suspect this is a stress response stemming from your interactions with your roommate, which may include symptoms such as insomnia, anxiety, headaches, diff...[Read More] Understanding Emotional Instability: Symptoms and Coping Strategies
Can I Consult a Doctor About My Wife's Paranoia Without Her?
My wife has paranoid delusions but is unwilling to seek treatment. Can I make an appointment in my name to discuss her condition with a doctor and obtain medication? My wife is experiencing paranoid delusions but is unwilling to seek help. Can I schedule an appointment in my name...
Dr. Zhang Fangrong reply Psychiatry
Hello Michael, in response to your question, prescribing medication is specific to the individual patient. Therefore, if you were to make an appointment and prescribe medication, it would not be appropriate. However, discussing your interactions with your wife with a physician sh...[Read More] Can I Consult a Doctor About My Wife's Paranoia Without Her?
Understanding Sleep Paralysis: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions
Inability to move during sleep? Doctor, I have a question: I often wake up in the middle of the night unable to move, but I am fully aware. I can't open my eyes, and I feel like I can't breathe, as if I'm not getting enough air. My mouth also trembles, and I sudden...
Dr. Zhang Fangrong reply Psychiatry
Dear Sir/Madam, Thank you for your inquiry. Based on your description of the experience of being unable to move while sleeping but remaining conscious, this is a common physiological response during the rapid eye movement (REM) phase of sleep. However, if this is accompanied by ...[Read More] Understanding Sleep Paralysis: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions
Managing Emotional Turmoil: Coping with Anger and Self-Conflict
Emotional regulation After arguing with my boyfriend, I tend to blame him and feel that everything is his fault, but I also don't want to place all the blame on him, so I think it's my problem too. This internal conflict makes me very angry, and I end up hating myself. ...
Dr. Zhang Fangrong reply Psychiatry
Dear Sir/Madam, Thank you for your message. Based on your description, I can clearly sense your discomfort. It seems that this is your way of dealing with your emotions; wanting to be angry at others but ultimately directing that frustration inward. This should be within your ow...[Read More] Managing Emotional Turmoil: Coping with Anger and Self-Conflict
Overcoming Sleep Disorders and Emotional Struggles: A Path to Healing
Sleep and cognitive issues? Hello, Dr. Zhang. I have been struggling with sleep disorders for a long time, starting from my university days. Perhaps I have gotten used to it over time, as I have been unable to fall asleep at a normal hour for nearly five years. I have tried many ...
Dr. Zhang Fangrong reply Psychiatry
Dear Sir/Madam, Thank you for your inquiry. Based on the process you described, it is evident that you are experiencing significant distress both in your daily life and mentally. I understand that you are making considerable efforts to initiate change. Firstly, I believe your ...[Read More] Overcoming Sleep Disorders and Emotional Struggles: A Path to Healing
Helping Family Accept a Loved One's Mental Illness: Tips and Strategies
How to help relatives accept that my mother has a mental illness? How can I help others, including relatives and family members, accept that my mother has a mental illness and reduce their biases against her?
Dr. Zhang Fangrong reply Psychiatry
Dear Sir/Madam, Thank you for your inquiry and for your message. The issues you mentioned are common challenges faced by psychiatric patients and their families, as society often holds preconceived notions and misunderstandings about mental illness. In reality, each psychiatric ...[Read More] Helping Family Accept a Loved One's Mental Illness: Tips and Strategies
Seeking Help for Severe OSA: Navigating Work and Health Challenges
How to seek assistance? Hello Dr. Chang, I have severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) with a maximum score on the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), experiencing extreme fatigue, excessive daytime sleepiness, and mental exhaustion, yet I have to grit my teeth and go to work (which re...
Dr. Zhang Fangrong reply Psychiatry
Dear Sir/Madam, Thank you for your inquiry. Regarding the matter of obtaining a medical certificate, I suggest discussing this with your attending physician to see if they can issue a diagnostic certificate and specify the recommended rest period. Generally, if the time frame al...[Read More] Seeking Help for Severe OSA: Navigating Work and Health Challenges
Managing Anxiety and Medication: Insights on Psychiatric Treatment
Issues with psychiatric medications Four months ago, I experienced an episode of autonomic nervous system dysfunction, which led to severe anxiety and panic symptoms. Initially, it felt similar to hypochondria; I became worried about serious illnesses whenever I noticed new physi...
Dr. Zhang Fangrong reply Psychiatry
Dear Sir/Madam, Based on your description regarding medication use, if the frequency of your anxiety symptoms is excessive, you may consider taking Xanax only during episodes of anxiety. If not, it is advisable to initially take the medication regularly for a short term. The dec...[Read More] Managing Anxiety and Medication: Insights on Psychiatric Treatment