Fear, Psychiatry FAQ

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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 Auditory Hallucinations: When Can They Be Recorded?

Schizophrenia Hello Dr. Hsueh, I would like to ask under what circumstances can auditory hallucinations be recorded? Previously, I consulted Dr. Lin Mianzhang, who confirmed that I indeed experience auditory hallucinations and delusions of reference (suspected hallucinations). Th...


Dr. Xue Gengming Reply:
We recommend that you: 1. Discuss the above situation further with your attending physician. 2. Consider seeking a consultation at another medical facility. Thank you! Wishing you good health!

[Read More] Understanding Auditory Hallucinations: When Can They Be Recorded?


Managing Panic Attacks During Blood Pressure Checks: Tips for Patients

Anxiety Panic Disorder Hello Doctor: I am a patient with anxiety and panic disorder. Whenever I go to the hospital to have my blood pressure measured, I experience a panic attack because I worry that my blood pressure will spike. The more I worry, the more panicked I become, and ...


Dr. Wu Enliang Reply:
If you are experiencing panic attacks when measuring your blood pressure, it's best to avoid doing so for now. However, it is clear that your panic disorder has not been fully addressed. I recommend that you continue to collaborate closely with your psychiatrist and adhere t...

[Read More] Managing Panic Attacks During Blood Pressure Checks: Tips for Patients


Understanding Auditory Hallucinations: When Can They Be Recorded?

Schizophrenia Hello Dr. Chiu, I would like to ask under what circumstances can auditory hallucinations be recorded? Previously, I consulted Dr. Lin Mianzhang, who confirmed that I indeed experience auditory hallucinations and delusions (suspected hallucinations). There are three ...


Dr. Qiu Junda Reply:
Hello. The issue is quite complex and cannot be addressed here. It would be best to consult with your attending physician during your follow-up appointment.

[Read More] Understanding Auditory Hallucinations: When Can They Be Recorded?


Do Antidepressants Affect Your Menstrual Cycle? Understanding the Connection

Do antidepressants affect the menstrual cycle? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing anxiety and irritability for the past one to two years, along with intrusive thoughts (I tend to be particularly sensitive and anxious when I hear ominous statements). After the 403 earthquake, ...


Dr. Qiu Junda Reply:
Hello. Medications and emotions can affect the menstrual cycle. You may not need to visit the obstetrics and gynecology department for an examination at this time. Please discuss your situation, including the use of Xinna tablets, with your psychiatrist during your next appointme...

[Read More] Do Antidepressants Affect Your Menstrual Cycle? Understanding the Connection


Overcoming Cancer Fears After COVID-19: What You Need to Know

Worried about having cancer? I'm sorry, doctor. Last year, while I was in the military, I accidentally contracted COVID-19. Fortunately, I recovered after a while, but a few months later, I started experiencing mild shortness of breath (which does not affect my daily activit...


Dr. Wu Enliang Reply:
There is no evidence to suggest a connection between COVID-19 and lung cancer. However, if you still have concerns, it is advisable to get checked. A low-dose chest CT scan can be performed, and if the results are clear, you can feel reassured. If you still have worries after the...

[Read More] Overcoming Cancer Fears After COVID-19: What You Need to Know


Managing Anxiety and Sleep Issues During Exam Preparation: A Comprehensive Guide

Psychological anger, national examinations, masturbation, and related lifestyle issues? Hello, doctor. I used to have very few issues with insomnia, but this year, as I prepare for the national exam, I encountered obstacles at the beginning of the year with family needing my help...


Dr. Li Zhengfeng Reply:
Hello: For insomnia, it is indeed recommended to first use non-pharmacological treatments, such as physical therapy, psychotherapy, and occupational therapy. If medication is absolutely necessary, it is also advised to avoid long-term use of sleep aids to prevent physiological or...

[Read More] Managing Anxiety and Sleep Issues During Exam Preparation: A Comprehensive Guide


How to Interact Effectively with Individuals Facing Social Anxiety and Panic Disorders

How to properly interact with individuals who have social anxiety and panic disorder? Dear Dr. Chang, I have a younger relative staying at my home for an extended period. He is currently a PGY2 resident and is working alongside you. However, there are some issues concerning him,...


Dr. Zhang Gengjia Reply:
From your letter, it is clear that you are experiencing discomfort and distress due to issues related to interpersonal sensitivity and interaction. These concerns involve specialized treatment modalities, including pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy. I strongly encourage you to se...

[Read More] How to Interact Effectively with Individuals Facing Social Anxiety and Panic Disorders


Understanding Schizophrenia: Cognitive Decline and Stress Impact

Schizophrenia leads to impaired brain function, and it raises the question of whether stress contributes to these issues? I would like to ask the doctor two questions. The first question is that I have been diagnosed with schizophrenia for over a year, and I feel that many functi...


Dr. Yu Quanxun Reply:
Hello: Coexisting with schizophrenia is a very challenging journey, and it is truly commendable that you have persevered until now. Regarding the first question: Schizophrenia does indeed affect various brain functions, including the cognitive abilities and expressive skills you ...

[Read More] Understanding Schizophrenia: Cognitive Decline and Stress Impact


Understanding Schizophrenia: Impact on Brain Function and Stress Factors

Schizophrenia leads to impaired brain function, and it raises the question of whether stress is a contributing factor? I would like to ask the doctor two questions. The first question is that I have been diagnosed with schizophrenia for over a year, and I feel that many functions...


Dr. Yu Quanxun Reply:
Hello: Coexisting with schizophrenia is a very challenging journey, and it is truly commendable that you have persevered this far. Regarding your first question: Schizophrenia indeed affects various brain functions, including the cognitive abilities and expressive skills you ment...

[Read More] Understanding Schizophrenia: Impact on Brain Function and Stress Factors


Understanding Anxiety and Mood Swings: Seeking Help for Mental Health Issues

I feel like there might be something wrong with my mental health, but I'm not sure? Hello, doctor. Thank you for taking the time to address my concerns. I would like to explain some issues in my life: 1. I feel very anxious and nervous in crowded places, and I have the impr...


Dr. Wu Enliang Reply:
It appears that the individual is experiencing significant issues with anxiety, depression, and poor concentration. It is recommended to seek treatment at a mental health facility. Dr. Wu Enliang.

[Read More] Understanding Anxiety and Mood Swings: Seeking Help for Mental Health Issues


Managing Schizophrenia Medication Changes: Signs and Concerns

My family recently discussed with the doctor and switched the medication for schizophrenia treatment? Hello Doctor, I would like to consult you about the following situation: **Main Situation:** My sister, who is being treated for schizophrenia, has elevated prolactin levels. T...


Dr. Qiu Junda Reply:
Hello. Since you have just changed your medication, we can continue to observe the situation. The symptoms described do not initially appear to indicate an acute change. Additionally, with the long-acting injection to help stabilize your condition, there is no need to worry too m...

[Read More] Managing Schizophrenia Medication Changes: Signs and Concerns


Understanding Your Toddler's Behavior: When Hiding Becomes a Concern

A 1 year and 8 months old child hiding? Hello, doctor. My son is currently 1 year and 8 months old. For the past two weeks, he has frequently run into a room or the bathroom at home and closed the door by himself. If my husband and I open the door, he cries and then closes it aga...


Dr. Liang Sunyuan Reply:
Hello Yun: If this started two weeks ago, it might be helpful to reflect on whether the child witnessed or experienced something frightening that they couldn't process before that time, or if they saw something scary on television or in videos. Regardless of whether a specif...

[Read More] Understanding Your Toddler's Behavior: When Hiding Becomes a Concern


Overcoming Health Anxiety: Coping with Parasitic Fears and Depression

Illness anxiety, anxiety, depression? The reason for what happened is that last summer, I wanted to quit my habit of biting my nails, which I had for two months. So, I searched for the negative effects of this habit and ended up finding articles about pinworms. I completely freak...


Dr. Lin Mianzhang Reply:
Hello, Cheng: Your situation exhibits symptoms of hypochondriasis, which may be related to psychological stress. This can be improved through psychotherapy. During the therapy process, you can discuss with your therapist whether there are deeper underlying reasons behind your ten...

[Read More] Overcoming Health Anxiety: Coping with Parasitic Fears and Depression


Should I Seek Mental Health Help? Overcoming Fear of Wasting Resources

I'm unsure whether I should see a psychiatrist, as I'm afraid of wasting medical resources? Since elementary school, I have written about wanting to jump off a building. After being harshly reprimanded by my family, I dared not bring it up again. After experiencing a me...


Dr. Lin Mianzhang Reply:
Hello: It seems that you often experience negative thoughts, feelings of guilt and self-blame, as well as low self-esteem. I recommend that you visit a mental health specialist for an evaluation to determine if you may have depression or other conditions. Even if you do not have ...

[Read More] Should I Seek Mental Health Help? Overcoming Fear of Wasting Resources


Can AI Tools Replace Human Creativity in Design?

Can machines replace the creativity of the human brain? Recently, I have been using AI tools (such as Bing Image Creator) to generate images and have found the quality to be very good. I would like to ask if AI tools can replace the creativity of designers. Thank you.


Dr. Liang Sunyuan Reply:
This issue is not within the realm of mental health care, but I agree with the following statement: "People in this era are unlikely to be replaced by AI; rather, those who do not understand how to use AI are more likely to be replaced by those who do." Therefore, we sh...

[Read More] Can AI Tools Replace Human Creativity in Design?


Can a Doctor Diagnose Mental Health Issues You Can't Discuss?

I'm not sure if a doctor's visit can reveal that? Thank you, doctor, for answering my questions last time. Regarding my previous inquiry, I would like to ask again. I don't feel comfortable discussing my issues with my parents because I'm afraid that if I tell...


Dr. Wu Menghuan Reply:
Hello: You mentioned that "hiccups, hand tremors, sweating, dry heaving, facial flushing, and a blank mind" only occur in specific situations, which you previously described as "being on stage, performing, facing a crowd, or speaking with unfamiliar or unknown indi...

[Read More] Can a Doctor Diagnose Mental Health Issues You Can't Discuss?


Managing Anxiety and Medication Withdrawal: A Patient's Journey

Drug withdrawal Hello Doctor: I have been taking "Duloxetine 30 mg" for about 4 to 5 months due to long-term anxiety issues. This may stem from the six months I spent caring for my father, who had cancer, until his passing about six or seven years ago. I am unsure why I...


Dr. Wu Enliang Reply:
1. Should I continue taking the medication or reduce the dosage after some time? A: Given your current level of anxiety, it's best not to stop the medication for now. 2. If I want to reduce the dosage, how should I do it? One pill every two days, one every three days, or c...

[Read More] Managing Anxiety and Medication Withdrawal: A Patient's Journey


Understanding OCD and Toilet Anxiety: Overcoming Fear of Germs

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) with a focus on cleanliness / Toilet Phobia (Paruresis) Recently, I have started to develop a fear of bacteria and viruses. I believe that when I use the toilet, my buttocks and thighs come into contact with the toilet seat, making them dirty. ...


Dr. Yu Quanxun Reply:
Hello: In daily life, we inevitably come into contact with bacteria and other microorganisms, and generally, a healthy adult's immune system is sufficient to resist them. However, if concerns about contracting dirty germs are affecting your daily routine or causing you ongoi...

[Read More] Understanding OCD and Toilet Anxiety: Overcoming Fear of Germs


Can Panic Disorder Be Managed Without Medication?

Can panic disorder be managed without medication? Hello, doctor. I have been dealing with panic disorder for over a decade. I previously consulted a psychiatrist once but have never taken medication because I feel panic about taking drugs. I believe my condition does not currentl...


Dr. Qiu Junda Reply:
Hello. Since you feel that your current condition is not affecting your daily life and mood without medication, you can temporarily refrain from taking medication. If you can make adjustments, not taking medication should not lead to a worsening of your condition. Additionally, y...

[Read More] Can Panic Disorder Be Managed Without Medication?


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