Safe Strategies for Tapering Off Psychiatric Medications
Medication tapering methods Hello Dr. Wang, I have been taking medication for depression and insomnia for eight months. Recently, as I am about to start working, I hope that work can help normalize my life. I would like to ask about the medications I am currently taking: 1. EF...
Dr. Wang Chongren Reply:
Dear Chris, Based on your medication regimen, it appears that your depression may be classified as severe major depressive disorder, which is prone to relapse and can become chronic. Therefore, early treatment is advisable. Once the medication takes effect, it is recommended to ...[Read More] Safe Strategies for Tapering Off Psychiatric Medications
Understanding Depression: Key Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Depression Doctor: I would like to ask you what symptoms are associated with depression, as I believe I may have depression.
Dr. Chen Meizhu Reply:
Hello: The symptoms of depression include the following common signs: 1. Persistent low mood 2. Loss of interest in activities 3. Decreased or increased appetite 4. Insomnia or hypersomnia 5. Fatigue, difficulty concentrating, or slowed thinking 6. Indecisiveness 7. Feelings of g...[Read More] Understanding Depression: Key Symptoms and When to Seek Help
How to Encourage a Loved One to Seek Mental Health Help
How to persuade him to seek medical attention? Hello, doctor. My father has faced financial issues due to a business failure, and over the years, he has become increasingly withdrawn and has discouraged my mother from socializing, which has led to resentment between them. Their r...
Dr. Zhou Sunyuan Reply:
Encouraging someone to see a psychiatrist is not an easy task. Especially when it comes to your father, who has become suspicious and irritable; asking him to visit a psychiatrist may only make him angrier. In such a situation, if your father does seek treatment, he may not be wi...[Read More] How to Encourage a Loved One to Seek Mental Health Help
Cognitive Therapy for Panic Disorder: Understanding Treatment Options
Cognitive Therapy for Panic Disorder Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you a few questions: My father had a consultation at Chimei Medical Center. The doctor mentioned that there are some shadows on his chest X-ray and advised long-term follow-up treatment. This has caused him t...
Dr. Tang Xinbei Reply:
Dear May, It seems that you are quite concerned about your father's condition. Based solely on your description, I cannot determine whether your father is experiencing panic disorder. Panic disorder refers to a condition characterized by recurrent, unexpected episodes of in...[Read More] Cognitive Therapy for Panic Disorder: Understanding Treatment Options
Understanding Violence and Anger Disorders: A Case Study
Violence and Aggression Disorders I met a male friend in Hualien who exhibits violent and aggressive behavior. He often speaks loudly to his girlfriend or relatives, whether intentionally or unintentionally, causing his girlfriend to experience mental stress, insomnia, and autono...
Dr. Tang Xinbei Reply:
Dear Limey, Your question is somewhat complex, so I will try to clarify a few points: 1. Your friend, who is only twenty years old, seems to be troubled by her boyfriend's issues. Her boyfriend has been using drugs, specifically methamphetamine, which appears to have alte...[Read More] Understanding Violence and Anger Disorders: A Case Study
Struggling with Insomnia and Emotional Turmoil: Seeking Help
Please help me? I am a working professional, and I don't know when it started, but the frequency of my insomnia has been increasing. For the past two to three months, I can only feel sleepy around 5 or 6 in the morning (because I'm really exhausted), but I have to get u...
Dr. Kong Fanzhong Reply:
Patients with depression often experience sleep disturbances, which can be a precursor to depressive episodes. Difficulty falling asleep due to a low mood and early morning awakenings are the most common symptoms. Individuals with severe depression may feel persistently low, lose...[Read More] Struggling with Insomnia and Emotional Turmoil: Seeking Help
Understanding Anger: Managing Emotional Sensitivity and Relationships
Easily irritated? Hello Doctor: I often feel down, insecure, lack confidence, and am sensitive. I tend to get overwhelmed by small issues and easily become angry. My relationship with my boyfriend is affected by this, leading to frequent arguments, making him feel that I complain...
Dr. Wang Zhenyang Reply:
Dear Sir/Madam, Difficulty sleeping after taking medication may be a side effect of the drug. It is advisable to discuss your medication with your physician, as there are many types of antidepressants available. You might consider trying a different medication. Additionally, the...[Read More] Understanding Anger: Managing Emotional Sensitivity and Relationships
Understanding the Symptoms of Depression and Bipolar Disorder
請提供 Sure! Here are the symptoms of depression and bipolar disorder: **Depression Symptoms:** 1. Persistent feelings of sadness or emptiness. 2. Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed. 3. Changes in appetite or weight (either weight loss or gain). 4. Sleep distur...
Dr. Lin Yanhong Reply:
The diagnostic criteria for depression include nine conditions: 1. A depressed mood nearly every day. 2. A significant loss of interest or pleasure in most activities of daily life. 3. A weight change of more than 5% without intentional dietary changes. 4. Insomnia or hypersomnia...[Read More] Understanding the Symptoms of Depression and Bipolar Disorder
Feeling Lost: Should I Seek Help for My Mental Health Struggles?
What’s wrong with me... Should I see a doctor? I really don't know what's wrong. My relationship with my boyfriend is in such a bad state... I want to communicate, but I can't find a way to do so. He always says he doesn't want to talk right now. I've wai...
Dr. Wang Chongren Reply:
Dear Dr. Wang Chong-Ren of the Psychiatric Department at Tainan Hospital, Executive Yuan Health Department: It seems that you are experiencing significant emotional distress. The feelings of attachment and conflict in your relationships may be sources of stress. It might be help...[Read More] Feeling Lost: Should I Seek Help for My Mental Health Struggles?
Understanding Panic Disorder and Bipolar Disorder: Symptoms, Treatment, and Support
excuse me? Panic disorder and bipolar disorder patients may exhibit a variety of symptoms. Panic disorder is characterized by recurrent panic attacks, which can include symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, feelings of choking, chest pain, na...
Dr. Zhou Sunyuan Reply:
Panic disorder is classified as an anxiety disorder, primarily characterized by panic attacks and symptoms arising from the fear of experiencing these attacks. A panic attack refers to a sudden onset of extreme anxiety, often accompanied by a feeling of impending doom, yet when i...[Read More] Understanding Panic Disorder and Bipolar Disorder: Symptoms, Treatment, and Support
Struggling with Medication: Can Depression Really Be Cured?
I have a question I would like to ask? I currently have to take nine pills a day, which makes me feel very anxious. I'm even worried that this will harm my kidneys, but without the medication, I'm afraid I won't be able to sleep! Just before bed, I need to take thr...
Dr. Yu Xie Zhao Reply:
I am not aware of the specific classes of medications you are taking, but I suspect that the medication you take at bedtime includes sedatives. Generally speaking, these medications can lead to dependence and tolerance, meaning that you may feel unable to function without them an...[Read More] Struggling with Medication: Can Depression Really Be Cured?
Dealing with a Jealous Partner: Seeking Help for Mental Health Struggles
I would like to consult with the doctor? Hello, doctor. I have a question I would like to ask you. I currently have a close boyfriend, but I am going crazy lately. I have known for a long time that he is a flirt; he constantly talks about which girl he likes or how beautiful some...
Dr. Wang Chongren Reply:
Dear Dr. Wang Chong-Ren of the Psychiatric Department at Tainan Hospital, Executive Yuan Health Department, Based on your letter, it seems that your boyfriend may have a tendency to undermine others' self-esteem to satisfy his own vanity. If this is the case and you are una...[Read More] Dealing with a Jealous Partner: Seeking Help for Mental Health Struggles
Overcoming Insomnia: Strategies for Natural Relaxation and Sleep
"Unable to relax naturally..." After I showed you last time... I know I shouldn't think about it before bed... and I shouldn't think about it during work either... I need to forget about not being able to sleep... but it's easier said than done... I have ...
Dr. Wang Chongren Reply:
Dear Ayou, The reason you are experiencing recurrent insomnia is likely due to a heavy sense of loss and anticipatory anxiety. The cycle of overthinking and anxiety, along with trying various methods—including writing emails—may actually increase your anxiety and make it harder ...[Read More] Overcoming Insomnia: Strategies for Natural Relaxation and Sleep
Struggling with Sleep: Understanding Your Night Owl Habits
Often, I find myself not wanting to sleep at night? Hello, doctor. Ever since I moved in with my boyfriend two years ago, I have been staying up late and sleeping in the mornings. Over time, my body seems to have adapted to this lifestyle. Now, when I try to go to bed earlier, I ...
Dr. Kong Fanzhong Reply:
Work-related factors may lead to daytime sleepiness and nighttime activity, which is common among night shift workers such as nurses and engineers. If you have now transitioned away from such work, it is important to emphasize avoiding poor sleep hygiene behaviors and adhering to...[Read More] Struggling with Sleep: Understanding Your Night Owl Habits
Am I Depressed? Understanding Emotional Turmoil and Seeking Help
Am I suffering from depression? Dear Dr. Chen, I often feel like crying for no reason. I experience sadness, irritability, and frequent outbursts of anger, and I cannot control my emotions. I also suffer from insomnia; even when I do fall asleep, I only sleep for about three hour...
Dr. Lin Yanhong Reply:
Hello, what should I do? I can see your feelings of helplessness. However, what you need to overcome right now is the shame associated with facing emotional and psychological issues. Your fear of being ridiculed by others reflects your attitude towards handling the problem. While...[Read More] Am I Depressed? Understanding Emotional Turmoil and Seeking Help
Is It Safe to Stop My Psychiatric Medication on My Own?
Do I still need to see a doctor? Hello, doctor. Last time you told me not to overthink things, and that would help me fall asleep naturally. Can I stop taking the medications you prescribed, namely the Kalmendin and Respitin, on my own? I'm not sure if it's okay to disc...
Dr. Wang Chongren Reply:
Dear Sir/Madam, Dr. Wang Chong-Ren from the Tainan Hospital of the Department of Health has noted that you seem to be gradually regaining the "feeling" of restful sleep. Keep up the good work! If you are able to fall asleep quickly and feel refreshed in the morning, yo...[Read More] Is It Safe to Stop My Psychiatric Medication on My Own?
Managing Anxiety and Medication: A Guide for Patients in Crisis
excuse me? Hello Doctor: Happy New Year!!! I apologize for bothering you again. Recently, I've been experiencing constant panic and anxiety, so you changed my medication to Inderal (as needed), Semi-Nax, Seroxat, and Lexotan (2 tablets at bedtime). After taking them last nig...
Dr. Tang Xinbei Reply:
Dear A-Rong, I sincerely apologize for my delayed response over the past two months due to my busy work schedule. It seems you are facing numerous challenges, including discomfort from medication, work-related stress, financial pressures, and plans for marriage. I find it diffic...[Read More] Managing Anxiety and Medication: A Guide for Patients in Crisis
Understanding ADHD: Seeking Effective Treatments and Solutions
Cure for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Hello, I was diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in my first year of high school, and I am now a sophomore in college. However, I don't feel that my condition has improved since entering univ...
Dr. Chen Wenyu Reply:
Hello, Arting: The first-line medication for treating Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is "Ritalin" (methylphenidate). However, some individuals may experience symptoms such as palpitations and anxiety, as you described. You should discuss this further wi...[Read More] Understanding ADHD: Seeking Effective Treatments and Solutions
Finding the Right Psychiatrist: Overcoming Anxiety and Isolation
Psychiatrist Dear Dr. Yeh, Thank you once again. I am considering seeking help from a psychiatrist because my habits have led to feelings of social anxiety, tension about the future, and burnout. I do not like who I am right now, as I have no friends around me—none at all. In th...
Dr. Ye Baozhuan Reply:
Hello! You've listed so many psychiatrists, and I feel just as overwhelmed as you do. However, any one of them should have the ability to address your concerns, provided that you trust them first. If you insist on having me choose one, I recommend selecting someone with expe...[Read More] Finding the Right Psychiatrist: Overcoming Anxiety and Isolation
Overcoming Sleep Anxiety: Strategies for Better Rest and Mental Health
Sleep issues? I previously visited you for a consultation, and you prescribed me some medications for anxiety and insomnia. However, when I lie down to sleep and am about to doze off, my mind sometimes flashes back to the pain of insomnia. I often feel a bit anxious about the pos...
Dr. Wang Chongren Reply:
Dear Sir/Madam, Dr. Wang Chong-Ren, Director of the Psychiatry Department at Tainan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, respectfully responds to you: The most important aspect of sleep is "natural" relaxation. By clearing your mind, you can naturally fall asleep....[Read More] Overcoming Sleep Anxiety: Strategies for Better Rest and Mental Health