Understanding Medications for Bipolar Disorder: Lithium, Latuda, and Invega
Lurasidone, Lithium salts, Aripiprazole Recently, I have switched to different prescriptions and doctors. I was originally taking lithium salts at bedtime for six months to a year, along with 0.5 mg of Risperidone. My most recent diagnosis was bipolar disorder during a depressive...
Dr. Qiu Junda Reply:
Hello. Lithium salts are mood stabilizers that help maintain emotional balance (neither manic nor depressive), while Lamotrigine has a broader pharmacological profile, including antidepressant and anxiolytic properties. However, the effectiveness of treatment varies from person t...[Read More] Understanding Medications for Bipolar Disorder: Lithium, Latuda, and Invega
Overcoming Swallowing Anxiety: Tips to Manage Your Fear of Choking
Phagophobia Recently, I choked on some rice while eating, and since then, I have developed a fear of eating. I find myself chewing for an excessively long time, almost to the point where it resembles vomit. I know that my prolonged chewing is due to my fear of choking, and I want...
Dr. Huang Zhijia Reply:
Hello: The diagnosis of mental disorders requires a multifaceted approach and often long-term observation; it cannot be determined by a single complaint. Even with the same diagnosis, different treatments may be necessary based on individual circumstances. It is recommended to co...[Read More] Overcoming Swallowing Anxiety: Tips to Manage Your Fear of Choking
Understanding Excessive Sleepiness: Is It Narcolepsy or Anemia?
Narcolepsy? Autonomic nervous system dysfunction anemia? Since one day at work, I suddenly felt the urge to sleep without any reason, and since then, it has been happening every day. The timing of these episodes is unpredictable, but they are more likely to occur after meals. I f...
Dr. Lin Mianzhang Reply:
Hello Lia: Your condition may be due to autonomic nervous system dysfunction, anemia, or other causes. A detailed consultation with a physician is necessary, and further tests (such as blood tests, sleep studies, etc.) may be required to confirm the diagnosis. It is recommended t...[Read More] Understanding Excessive Sleepiness: Is It Narcolepsy or Anemia?
Understanding Adult Asperger Syndrome: Diagnosis, Challenges, and Support
Adult Asperger syndrome I am actually quite confused about whether I have Asperger syndrome or simply high-functioning autism, and whether I also have ADHD. Or could it be that I have Asperger syndrome, high-functioning autism, and ADHD as comorbid conditions in different proport...
Dr. Liang Sunyuan Reply:
Hello: Q1: Asperger's syndrome is also classified as high-functioning autism, and there is currently a tendency not to differentiate it further, as the intervention methods are similar and it is not possible to confirm the diagnosis based on the aforementioned descriptions. ...[Read More] Understanding Adult Asperger Syndrome: Diagnosis, Challenges, and Support
Who to Turn to for Help with Bipolar Disorder and Mental Health?
Who should I seek help from? I'm feeling extremely overwhelmed and desperate! I have been plagued by persistent feelings of guilt, feeling incompetent and useless, and I have been trying to torment myself. Yet, I keep searching online for answers and I can't stop. I hav...
Dr. Wang Pengnian Reply:
It is recommended to consult the attending physician from six years ago during your hospitalization.[Read More] Who to Turn to for Help with Bipolar Disorder and Mental Health?
Understanding the Genetic Risks of Asperger's Syndrome in Older Parents
Asperger's syndrome and aging-related genetics? Hello Dr. Yu: I would like to ask, my father has Asperger's syndrome, and he is over 38 years old. What is the likelihood of passing it on to his children? Thank you for your response! 🙏
Dr. Yu Quanxun Reply:
Hello: The causes of Asperger's syndrome and autism spectrum disorders are complex. It is currently known that they have a genetic component and are related to parental age. However, the actual impact and likelihood of developing these conditions result from the interaction ...[Read More] Understanding the Genetic Risks of Asperger's Syndrome in Older Parents
Can I Remove My Disability Status and Live Normally After Recovery?
I have a permanent major illness card and a mild disability handbook. Can I request the National Health Insurance Administration and the district office to remove the notation (as there is no record on my health insurance card)? If I recover, is there a way for me to return to be...
Dr. Zhang Gengjia Reply:
Hello Ms. Xiang, thank you for once again providing a detailed description of your situation. I understand the pressures and difficulties you are facing in your work and life. My recommendations are essentially the same as those for case 208513; the disability handbook for mild c...[Read More] Can I Remove My Disability Status and Live Normally After Recovery?
Who to Consult for Accurate Mental Health Diagnosis?
Diagnosis of diseases? To determine which specific mental illness you may have that is recognized by law, you should seek a licensed mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or a clinical psychologist. These professionals can conduct a thorough evaluation of your curren...
Dr. Qiu Junda Reply:
Hello. The key point of your question is not about which specific mental illness has legal recognition. The previous suggestion to seek assistance from legal professionals was based on the fact that insurance companies are more knowledgeable and professional regarding certain cla...[Read More] Who to Consult for Accurate Mental Health Diagnosis?
Understanding Autonomic Nervous System Disorders: Symptoms and Solutions
Autonomic nervous system dysfunction Last year, before undergoing laparoscopic surgery, I had a chest X-ray and an electrocardiogram, and the doctor did not mention any issues. However, in the past few months, I have occasionally experienced sudden back pain, dizziness, a feeling...
Dr. Qiu Junda Reply:
Hello. The symptoms described may be related to autonomic nervous system dysfunction. However, a medical evaluation is necessary for a proper diagnosis. You may consider scheduling an appointment with a psychiatrist for an assessment to facilitate improvement.[Read More] Understanding Autonomic Nervous System Disorders: Symptoms and Solutions
Struggling with Mental Health: Seeking Job Transfer After 21 Years in Public Service
At the age of 23, I fell ill. After my illness, I successfully passed the civil service examination and have been working for nearly 21 years. Currently, I am experiencing significant work-related stress and find it difficult to cope physically. I would like to transfer to a diff...
Dr. Zhang Gengjia Reply:
Dear Ms. Hsiang, Based on your description, I understand the difficulties you are facing due to workplace stress and the physical burden it imposes on you. I would like to offer the following suggestions: 1. Seek Professional Assistance: Maintain regular communication with your...[Read More] Struggling with Mental Health: Seeking Job Transfer After 21 Years in Public Service
Managing Withdrawal from Clonazepam and Eszopiclone: A Guide for Shift Workers
Withdrawal from Clonazepam 1 mg and Escitalopram 0.25 mg? I work alternating day and night shifts. After receiving the booster dose of the COVID-19 vaccine in February 2022, I experienced insomnia symptoms. I was prescribed Eszopiclone 5 mg and Lorazepam 1 mg to take before bed a...
Dr. Wu Enliang Reply:
How long should one wait to discontinue Keppra? A: There is no specific duration, but maintaining good sleep hygiene (such as engaging in moderate exercise and avoiding the bed before sleep) can allow for a gradual reduction or discontinuation of the medication. Will withdrawal s...[Read More] Managing Withdrawal from Clonazepam and Eszopiclone: A Guide for Shift Workers
Understanding Medication Adjustments for Adjustment Disorder
Adjustment disorder with medication issues? Since last year, I have often felt depressed, anxious, and lacking in confidence due to work stress. I consulted a psychiatrist, and the diagnosis was adjustment disorder. I have been taking Anxiolytics and Antidepressants daily for ove...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng Reply:
Hello: Adjustment disorders may worsen due to various factors even while on stable medication. In some cases, it may be necessary to increase medication to control the condition; however, incorporating non-pharmacological treatments could also be an option. To improve your condit...[Read More] Understanding Medication Adjustments for Adjustment Disorder
Can Panic or Depression Lead to Bipolar Disorder? Understanding Your Symptoms
Can panic/depression turn into bipolar disorder? Am I experiencing this situation? About seven to eight months ago, I experienced panic attacks that left me unable to get out of bed. I was preoccupied with thoughts of life and death, and I exhibited nearly all physiological respo...
Dr. Lin Mianzhang Reply:
Hello, Hong: Your situation seems to resemble feelings of agitation, which is a common symptom in patients with depression. However, about 5%-10% of individuals diagnosed with depression may later exhibit symptoms of mania, at which point the diagnosis may be changed to bipolar d...[Read More] Can Panic or Depression Lead to Bipolar Disorder? Understanding Your Symptoms
Overcoming Swim Class Anxiety: Seeking Help for Aquaphobia
Fear of swimming classes, causing anxiety to the point of sleeplessness? Hello, doctor. Our school's physical education class includes swimming lessons, but I have always been afraid of water and the feeling of not having my feet touch the bottom. I have tried to swim a few ...
Dr. Wu Enliang Reply:
It is advisable for individuals to gradually overcome their fear of swimming, as most people experience improvement after treatment. Typically, if there is no significant improvement after at least one year of consistent therapy, one might consider such a diagnosis and agree to t...[Read More] Overcoming Swim Class Anxiety: Seeking Help for Aquaphobia
Traveling with Psychiatric Medications: What You Need to Know
Medication Consultation Hello, Doctor. I would like to inquire about my situation. I have issues with autonomic nervous system dysfunction and panic disorder, and I am currently taking 15 mg of Olanzapine and 10 mg of Propranolol. I plan to travel to Thailand in April and would l...
Dr. Wu Enliang Reply:
The online user An Li Ping mentioned that Anxiolytics are classified as Schedule IV controlled substances, while Propranolol is not a controlled drug. Generally speaking, these medications should be permissible to bring out of the country, but I am not a travel expert, so I recom...[Read More] Traveling with Psychiatric Medications: What You Need to Know
Should I See a Psychiatrist? Understanding My Mental Health Struggles
Should I see a psychiatrist? Hello, Dr. Lin! I apologize for bothering you. I haven't been doing well these past few years. During my student days, I often took leave due to my menstrual cycle, and when I returned to school, I frequently felt like I was falling behind everyo...
Dr. Lin Mianzhang Reply:
Hello, it seems that you have been experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety for a long time, including feelings of sadness, difficulty sleeping, trouble concentrating, fatigue, and a lack of desire to go out, which can severely impact your ability to maintain a normal life...[Read More] Should I See a Psychiatrist? Understanding My Mental Health Struggles
Can Social Anxiety Disorder Co-Occur with Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Can social anxiety disorder co-occur with autism spectrum disorder? Hello, doctor! I am a 23-year-old individual diagnosed with moderate autism (diagnostic code: F84.0) who has verbal communication skills and emotional issues that need to be addressed. I exhibit aggressive behavi...
Dr. Wu Menghuan Reply:
Hello, Q1: Can social anxiety disorder co-occur with autism spectrum disorder? A1: "Social anxiety disorder" has been renamed from "social phobia" in the DSM-5. There are significant differences in essence between "social anxiety disorder" and &qu...[Read More] Can Social Anxiety Disorder Co-Occur with Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Understanding Medication Effects on Sexual Desire in Psychiatric Treatment
Medication Consultation Hello, Doctor: I would like to briefly introduce my background. I started receiving psychiatric treatment in Nagasaki during the 8th and 9th grades. My current diagnoses are Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Depersonalization/Derealization (DP/DR) sympt...
Dr. Wu Menghuan Reply:
Hello: Antidepressants can indeed have side effects related to sexual function, but abruptly discontinuing the medication may lead to instability in mental symptoms, dizziness, headaches, nausea, anxiety, mood swings, and sleep disturbances. Therefore, it is not advisable to adju...[Read More] Understanding Medication Effects on Sexual Desire in Psychiatric Treatment
Understanding Organic Psychosis: Diagnosis and Thyroid Influence
Inquiry on Organic Mental Disorders Hello, doctor. Thank you for taking the time to answer my questions despite your busy schedule. I would like to inquire about the diagnosis of organic psychosis. My family member exhibited symptoms of delusional disorder a year and a half ago, ...
Dr. Qiu Junda Reply:
Hello: 1. Organic mental disorders refer to psychiatric conditions that may be caused by tangible (organic) factors, such as brain injuries, physiological issues, electrolyte imbalances, or drug-induced effects. Since the causes can be identified or inferred, they are collectivel...[Read More] Understanding Organic Psychosis: Diagnosis and Thyroid Influence
Reevaluating Major Mental Health Diagnoses: Autism and Trauma Insights
Schizophrenia / Autism / Borderline Personality Disorder / Major Disabilities / Physical Disabilities 1. Should the diagnosis for the Major Disability Card and Disability Handbook be corrected? What are the advantages and disadvantages? 2. What are the similar manifestations ...
Dr. Wu Menghuan Reply:
Hello, (1) Major Illness Card: The Major Illness Card is issued by the Ministry of Health and Welfare's National Health Insurance Administration, which exempts holders from certain out-of-pocket medical expenses under the National Health Insurance. The diagnosis must meet ...[Read More] Reevaluating Major Mental Health Diagnoses: Autism and Trauma Insights