Struggling to Sleep: Why Exhaustion Doesn't Equal Rest
Very tired but having difficulty falling asleep? I am very tired, but I find it difficult to fall asleep, or I wake up just a few minutes after falling asleep.
Dr. Li Zhengfeng Reply:
Hello: First of all, thank you for your letter. The causes of insomnia can be broadly categorized into three main types: 1. Mental disorders such as schizophrenia and depression; 2. Physiological conditions such as pain or heart disease; 3. Insomnia of unknown origin related to i...[Read More] Struggling to Sleep: Why Exhaustion Doesn't Equal Rest
Is Talking to Yourself a Sign of Mental Illness or Just Independent Thinking?
Soliloquy Is talking to oneself considered a mental illness? Different physicians have varying opinions on this matter. Some believe it is a sign of an overly introverted personality, while others suggest that self-talk during solitude serves as an emotional release. However, if ...
Dr. Ding Shuyan Reply:
Hello, yes, sometimes talking to oneself does not necessarily indicate a mental health issue. It is important to consult with a physician to assess if there are other underlying conditions, such as insomnia, delusions, hallucinations, reality distortion, emotional problems, etc. ...[Read More] Is Talking to Yourself a Sign of Mental Illness or Just Independent Thinking?
Understanding Sleep Disorders: Anxiety, Medication, and Health Impacts
Sleep disorders After several consecutive nights of not being able to sleep fully and only resting with closed eyes, I consulted a psychiatrist. The doctor diagnosed me with anxiety-induced sleep disorder and prescribed Lexapro, Remeron, and medication to alleviate anxiety, but t...
Dr. Ding Shuyan Reply:
Hello, there are many causes of insomnia, which are often manifestations of psychological stress or underlying health issues. Based on your age and the description of your problem, it seems you have not experienced significant insomnia over the past few decades. Therefore, you ca...[Read More] Understanding Sleep Disorders: Anxiety, Medication, and Health Impacts
Long-Term Effects of Sleep Deprivation and Medication in Psychiatry
Regarding medication issues? If someone has been unable to sleep for a long time and only rests with their eyes closed, while taking Lyrica (pregabalin) but is averse to sleeping pills, they may wonder about the long-term health effects of this situation.
Dr. Liang Sunyuan Reply:
Long-term sleep disturbances can lead to a fear of insomnia, which in turn can exacerbate the condition. Additionally, chronic sleep issues can negatively impact daytime alertness and concentration. If the sleep aids being taken are ineffective, it is advisable to discuss with a ...[Read More] Long-Term Effects of Sleep Deprivation and Medication in Psychiatry
Choosing the Right Psychiatrist: Managing Anxiety and Insomnia Medications
Which doctor should I see? I would like to ask... Recently, due to severe insomnia and anxiety, my doctor prescribed me Lishutong to take at night. However, after a few months, I still rely on this medication to fall asleep, and I have increased my dosage from one tablet to one a...
Dr. Ding Shuyan Reply:
Hello, long-term and excessive use of Lexotan may lead to some degree of tolerance. However, whether a patient becomes addicted to a medication often depends more on the patient's mindset than on the medication itself. Some people enjoy taking medication, while others are af...[Read More] Choosing the Right Psychiatrist: Managing Anxiety and Insomnia Medications
Managing Insomnia Linked to Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Patient's Dilemma
Ankylosing spondylitis and spondylitis leading to insomnia? Hello Dr. Ding, I have been suffering from insomnia for over 8 years since being diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis. I have consulted a psychiatrist who mentioned that they can only prescribe sleep aids, and the mai...
Dr. Ding Shuyan Reply:
Hello, my personal opinion is as follows: both physicians are correct in their statements. In recent months, due to certain reasons, the National Health Insurance Administration has implemented stricter regulations regarding the prescription of sleeping pills, which has made it c...[Read More] Managing Insomnia Linked to Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Patient's Dilemma
Can Antidepressants Like Zoloft Help Anxiety from Panic Disorder?
Antidepressant medications? Antidepressant medications, such as Zoloft (sertraline) and other selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can indeed help alleviate anxiety symptoms associated with panic disorder. These medications work by increasing the levels of serotonin i...
Dr. Ding Shuyan Reply:
Hello, antidepressants can be used to treat anxiety symptoms. Your understanding of medication is actually quite good. Wishing you all the best. Sincerely, Dr. Ding Shuo-Yan.[Read More] Can Antidepressants Like Zoloft Help Anxiety from Panic Disorder?
Struggling with Insomnia After Taking Zoloft: Is It a Side Effect?
I experienced insomnia at night after taking antidepressant medication? Hello, Doctor: Yesterday afternoon, I took half a tablet of Zoloft (25 mg), an antidepressant, and as a result, I felt a lot of acidity and discomfort in my stomach all night, similar to morning sickness, wit...
Dr. Ding Shuyan Reply:
Hello, the discomfort you are experiencing may be a side effect of the medication, but it could also be a manifestation of your psychiatric symptoms, such as anxiety or depression. Generally, we recommend that you continue taking the medication for a few more days, as most side e...[Read More] Struggling with Insomnia After Taking Zoloft: Is It a Side Effect?
Understanding Confusion: Impact on Consciousness and Management Strategies
Mental confusion Can confusion affect a person's consciousness? Could you please explain this and the methods for addressing it?
Dr. Wu Enliang Reply:
Hello: Confusion of thoughts should not affect a person's state of consciousness, but it may lead to conditions such as depression and anxiety, which can result in insomnia, poor appetite, and malnutrition, ultimately impacting consciousness. It is advisable to make the issu...[Read More] Understanding Confusion: Impact on Consciousness and Management Strategies
Am I Suffering from Depression? Understanding Symptoms and Concerns
Am I suffering from depression? I have been experiencing some health issues recently, which have made me quite frustrated. Sometimes I feel indifferent about everything. Ever since I learned about my condition, I have been suffering from insomnia; it's difficult for me to fa...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng Reply:
Hello: First of all, thank you for your letter. Based on what you mentioned, feeling low, depressed, and experiencing insomnia for a duration of two months are symptoms of depression. You may be suffering from major depressive disorder. I recommend seeking assistance from a psych...[Read More] Am I Suffering from Depression? Understanding Symptoms and Concerns
Understanding Anxiety and Sleep Issues: Is It Depression?
Depressive Panic Hello Doctor: I've been worried lately about whether I have some health issues. The more I search for related information online, the more scared I become, fearing that I might have a serious illness. Since then, I've been experiencing some sleep proble...
Dr. Ding Shuyan Reply:
Hello, if your sleep has become shorter than usual, accompanied by vivid dreams or frequent awakenings, and these symptoms persist for a period of time, it is indeed worth noting. However, sleep disturbances are often just the tip of the iceberg and are common manifestations of v...[Read More] Understanding Anxiety and Sleep Issues: Is It Depression?
Struggling with Insomnia: Why Sleep Aids and Coffee Aren't Working
I'm in so much pain; taking two Barbie sleeping pills at the same time didn't help, and drinking coffee didn't work either? I can't fall asleep even when lying in bed; my mind keeps racing with thoughts, whether it's songs or past events, and I can't...
Dr. Qiu Junda Reply:
Hello: Insomnia is quite common in today's society, and its causes are not necessarily simple; they can include physical, psychological, and environmental factors. It is recommended that you practice good sleep hygiene (there are many educational articles available online). ...[Read More] Struggling with Insomnia: Why Sleep Aids and Coffee Aren't Working
Understanding Insomnia: Causes, Treatments, and Alternatives for Young Adults
Insomnia issues Hello Dr. Ding, I have some questions I would like to ask. My girlfriend is 24 years old and may be experiencing insomnia due to work-related stress. She recently visited a hospital where the doctor prescribed her "Suvorexant." She was able to sleep well...
Dr. Ding Shuyan Reply:
Hello, insomnia is a common manifestation of many diseases or issues. Therefore, the severity of insomnia symptoms can change with the progression of the condition and the effectiveness of treatment. The use of sleep medications like Stednos primarily serves as a symptomatic reli...[Read More] Understanding Insomnia: Causes, Treatments, and Alternatives for Young Adults
Managing Schizophrenia: Medication Changes and Sleep Issues Explained
Treat the symptoms with appropriate medication? Symptoms: Schizophrenia, psychotic depression, insomnia. Currently taking medication: Seroquel 200mg, Lamictal 50mg, and Ativan 2mg. What should I do if I still experience insomnia after taking Ativan 2mg? Recently, my doctor mentio...
Dr. Wang Chongren Reply:
To Ching, You have many questions in your letter. Since I have not directly examined your condition, I can only respond based on general situations; I hope you understand. 1. Using benzodiazepines can help with relaxation and facilitate sleep. If you still experience insomnia...[Read More] Managing Schizophrenia: Medication Changes and Sleep Issues Explained
Can a Cold Affect Sleep Quality? When to See a Psychiatrist
Insomnia issues? Hello doctor, my girlfriend is 24 years old and she started experiencing insomnia a few days ago. Coincidentally, she also caught a cold a few days ago, and today marks the third day of poor sleep, with some nights where she hasn't slept at all. Sometimes sh...
Dr. Song Chengxian Reply:
Hello, discomfort in your physical condition can indeed affect sleep quality. If the cold symptoms have improved but insomnia persists, it is advisable for your girlfriend to see a doctor. Sincerely, Dr. Song.[Read More] Can a Cold Affect Sleep Quality? When to See a Psychiatrist
Struggling with Daytime Fatigue Despite Sleep Medication: What to Do?
I have taken sleeping pills, but I still feel very lethargic during the day? Hello Dr. Ding, I am 20 years old and have recently developed a habit of taking sleeping pills. Previously, my doctor prescribed me diazepam, but since I need to study in the morning, I have also tried ...
Dr. Ding Shuyan Reply:
Hello, the simplest yet most challenging task for a psychiatrist is prescribing sleeping pills that allow patients to sleep soundly through the night and wake up the next day without residual effects, feeling refreshed. Whether we can achieve such an ideal situation with sleeping...[Read More] Struggling with Daytime Fatigue Despite Sleep Medication: What to Do?
Struggling with Insomnia at 20: Seeking Help and Solutions
I've been experiencing insomnia almost every day recently? Hello Doctor: I am 20 years old and have been experiencing insomnia lately, which has been getting worse. I now find it difficult to fall asleep until around 1 AM, and since I have classes, I feel quite fatigued duri...
Dr. Ding Shuyan Reply:
Hello, it is possible to take sleeping pills, but the most important consideration is our symptoms or underlying conditions. If insomnia is severe and leads to poor mental or physical well-being the next day, affecting work, learning, or interpersonal relationships, along with th...[Read More] Struggling with Insomnia at 20: Seeking Help and Solutions
Can You Stop Psychiatric Medication on Your Own? Understanding Risks and Alternatives
Can I stop taking the medication on my own? Hello Dr. Chang: I previously experienced insomnia due to stress from illness, so I went to see a psychiatrist. The doctor prescribed me medication for depression and bipolar disorder, which really helped me sleep. However, I'm not...
Dr. Zhang Jiafen Reply:
Hello, I can sense your distress from your message. It's normal for everyone to experience emotional fluctuations; the key is the duration of these fluctuations and their impact on daily life. If your emotional ups and downs have exceeded your ability to cope, I recommend se...[Read More] Can You Stop Psychiatric Medication on Your Own? Understanding Risks and Alternatives
Struggling with Insomnia: Daytime Sleepiness and Mental Exhaustion
Insomnia at night and feeling sleepy during the day? Hello Doctor: I have been unable to fall asleep at night, which often affects my work. In the morning, I struggle to get up, and when I do manage to sleep, I have frequent dreams. I have tried going to bed early and clearing my...
Dr. Zhang Fangrong Reply:
Dear Sir/Madam, Thank you for your inquiry. Based on your description, it is clear that this issue has been significantly affecting your daily life and mental well-being. You mentioned the need for sleeping medication. Considering the duration and severity of your sleep disturba...[Read More] Struggling with Insomnia: Daytime Sleepiness and Mental Exhaustion
Understanding Persistent Pain: When to Seek Help Beyond Psychiatry
Chronic pain Hello: I have been seeing a psychiatrist for over eight months. The doctor suspects I have autonomic nervous system dysregulation due to insomnia and other physical symptoms. I have been taking Liyou and other sedatives for about six months, but changing medications ...
Dr. Li Zhengfeng Reply:
Hello: First of all, thank you for your letter. Autonomic nervous system disorders or anxiety disorders can indeed present with physiological symptoms that cannot be explained by physical examinations or diagnostic tests, such as unexplained pain. However, it is generally necessa...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Pain: When to Seek Help Beyond Psychiatry