Questions about a Disorder?
Is this Depression?
Q: I am not sure if it is a depression, But i have seen a lots of changes happening in me for the last 6 months ; I am having a successful career earning more than USD 10,000 a month. Have 2 wonderful kids and a wife. I feel helpless, energy less all the times I have lost interest in sex for the last 6 months, 6 Months before i was really active. I feel like staying at home. Always keep on thinking about money. All the rimes i think when can i have USD 1 Million which will secure my kids and wife financially. I want to go out to mountains or in mid of a sea where I don’t want to see any one , I don’t want to talk to anyone. I always feel low... I have no words what is happening
A: DearRaz, It appears from your change in mood in the last 6 months that you are experiencing a degree of depression. Try to go back in time and trace the sequence that led to your mood change and your preoccupation with money. I strongly suggest a consultation with a qualified mental health professional as it is often difficult to uncover the roots of a depression alone once it has take hold. You are thinking that money is the answer to your struggles but it is quite unlikely that income is the source of your distress. Thank you for having the courage to ask for help, I hope you will pursue aclinicianwho can help as it likely that with help you can return to your previous level of health. I wish you the best.
Son Urinates
Q: my stepchild is almost 13 and refuses point blank to follow simple rules and tries to control the rest of the house with his behavior. He does not have learning difficulties and is exceptionally bright at school and is very cooperative with other people, yet at home blames others for his actions and behaves like a toddler. This behavior has been going on for the past 4 years and was first identified when a bladder problem was diagnosed, he then used this as a tool to punish the family with as if he did not get his own way would urinate everywhere to get attention, however has only done this at school on 3 occasions out of @1000. the family is held to ransom, school have been involved but they are completely bemused and over a year ago referred him to camhs. They however have said that they do not believe him to have a mental health issue and it is just a case of managing his behavior. We do not feel this to be the case and feel that there is something wrong with him of a me ntal health nature
A: Dear Mr. or Ms.: Your stepchild and your family would benefit from having a consultation with a qualified family therapist. The fact that he performs better in school may be indicative of his acting out his feelings toward the reunited family. Remember that even though acting out behavior is very irritating, it is a sign of an a young person's emotional problem that he has not learned how to deal with effectively. Family therapy can be immensely helpful in teaching all members new ways of responding to conflict with directness and tact. Acting out is generally a sign of not knowing how else to express differences of opinion. Your stepchild is disturbed about something and therapy can help uncover the cause, while developing more appropriate means of coping. I wish you the best.
Feel Pressured to be Skinny
Q: Hi, I'm a teenage girl and I have an eating disorder. I've been with my boyfriend for a while now but for some reason I feel pressured into being skinny. He always says I look beautiful the way I am but all his exes are really skinny. I feel obese next to all them which worries and makes me very self-conscious. At first I started starving myself but my mum started to notice so she watches me eat.. However I would later throw it up. I'm 5 foot 3" and 6 stone exactly. But I still feel like I look 16 stone. People are constantly telling me I look great but there my friends.. They're supposed to say that right? Also I don't want to discuss it with my parents because they think I'm just attention seeking and I have severe trust issues. Also I was the one who sent in the question about schizophrenia (14 year old girl) who has been smoking hash since 11. I have went to the doctor with my best friend and he is going to refer me to a therapist and possibly put me on medication because he believes I might have schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. I feel so messed up like everything’s wrong with me?.. What do I do :(
A: Dear Ms.: It is very difficult to believe that who you are is far more important than your weight, as we live in a society that glorifies thinness. It is true however that we see in the mirror what we feel about ourselves internally. I have treated gorgeous models who feel their appearance is all they have to offer the world, and when they gain a few pounds they are convinced they are less lovable although no other human being in their life thinks they look any different. If you are suffering with a poor view of yourself you can turn your appearance into the one vehicle which you believe will bring you self-worth and the love of others. You are making the right decision by seeking a referral to a qualified mental health professional; you cannot determine which of these diagnoses fits your unique personality alone. Also remember you are far more than a label, you have a unique story to tell and you will have the opportunity in therapy to learn who you truly are, which is an invaluable opportunity as so many people go through life thinking they are less than others, not realizing they have learned a distorted of themselves that is actually not accurate. My hope is that you will continue in therapy long enough to discover your true value. I wish you the best in your journey.
Self-Help for Bipolar
Q: Good day sir/madam
I was many years ago diagnosed with bio polar disorder. My life has always been a downhill for me. I was told to go and see a psychologist who would prescribe the right medication for me. I have uncontrollable anger problems and tend to feel down at times. I sometimes find it hard in speech and lose words I'm supposed to say and eventually don't make sense of it as intelligent as I am. I lose focus and courage at times. please help me to help myself.
Thank you
A: Dear Mr. or Ms.: I would encourage you to consult with an experienced mental health clinician as it will take time to make a proper diagnosis and to develop a plan that will help you achieve a balanced life. Medication may be needed but medication combined with weekly psychotherapy will be far more effective than one or the other. From you note it is not clear whether in fact you are bi-polar as you list symptoms that may relate to other difficulties, which again makes it imperative for you to seek consultation as soon as you can. I wish you the best and thank you for reaching out to us.
My boyfriend and I Both Have Schizophrenia
Q: Hi my name is Bevely my boyfriend has been diagnosis with this i also have depression and anxiety he has schizophrenia i just have a question he use to use street drugs oxycodone i just want to know if he developed this by this drug he seems normal most of the time to me he and i just had a baby she 2 months will our child have this or not??? also what kinds of medicine is treated for this usually his doctor has him on so many pills he’s on methadone now 80mg for his drug habit he also is taking some sleeping pills at night that just makes him a big mess all day long I’m so frustrated with his doctors i just want him on something he’s able to care for me and our daughter plz help
A: Dear Bevely: Schizophrenia does have a genetic predisposition but it is not clear if in fact your boyfriend has this diagnosis. It is often difficult to diagnose when someone is abusing drugs as certain additions can create inappropriate behavior by themselves. It sounds like he needs to see a mental health professional for a second opinion and a review of all his medications. You would also both benefit from family therapy sessions as an experienced family therapist could help greatly with parenting and managing the stress of raising a young child. My Best
Schizophrenic?
Q: Hi, I'm a 14 year old female...
Okay so here's my story and question;
Ever since I was 11 years old I have smoked hash. At first it wasn't a need or a must, I just enjoyed going out with friends (usually a few years older) and getting high. We would also drink etc. Then after about 2 month I began to become addicted then after 1 more month I was completely hooked.. That's when it all took a turn for the worse... I didn't think there was anything wrong at first when I started slacking at school, lazing about and losing interest in the things I used to love because it seemed like that's what every 'stoner' was like. However after another few month I started to get worried, I couldn't sleep, couldn't focus, had serious mood swings, wanted to be alone all the time, suicidal thoughts etc. So after this I tried to quit smoking hash (6 joints a day) and instead moved onto smoking cigarettes (10 a day). However this didn't work and things got worse.. I started hearing voices and seeing things no one else did, flash backs, deep suicidal thoughts, feeling unloved, feelings that family wanted to kill me so I refused to sleep and soon I began to self-harm. I would slit my wrist, over dose or pour boiling water over myself. I feel so hopeless now. I'm back to smoking hash, self-harming, hallucinating and having suicidal thought. I haven't told anyone except my best friend. I'm not going to tell my parents and I'm too scared to go to a doctor because I am scared they want to lock me up or harm me. Does this sound like schizophrenia? Have the drugs triggered this? What should I do?
A: Dear Ms: I am very sorry you are suffering so severely. It is likely that your years of drug abuse are causing these symptoms although this possibility has to be carefully assessed by a qualified mental health professional. It is extremely important for you to consult with a seasoned clinician who specializes in addictions. We could not rule out schizophrenia from what you have described but clarity will be revealed when you obtain sobriety for a significant period of time. Also consider AA or NA meetings, people are very willing to help and you can receive caring support as many have been through similar circumstance and have achieved a balanced life over time. Please follow these recommendations as soon as possible. My Best,
Rated positive on depression Quiz
Q: Hi I've just done a questionnaire on depression and it has come back positive. For the past couple of weeks I've felt really down, lack of energy, always tired and don't seem to enjoy spending time with family my partner and friends. I had a surprise weekend away for my 21st birthday and I didn't even feel excited and this isn't the normal me. I'm the one awake at 3am on Christmas morning at 20 year old to excited to sleep. i don't want to talk about it with my family incase they think I've gone crazy. Please help
A: Dear Ms/Mr: The fact that your current mood is an exception and not the norm for you is a good sign. It is quite likely that after consulting and possibly beginning psychotherapy with a qualified mental health professional you will return to your previous state of mind. Please pursue a consultation as soon as possible as the longer you wait the more entrenched your negativity can become. Often times there are hidden reasons for a sudden change in mood, talking spontaneously with a professional can bring the causes of your distress into your awareness. I wish you the best.
Depression, Anxiety and Weed
Q: Hi, I am not sure if I have a condition, but people have mentioned I may be bipolar. I am not sure if I am just very stressed from my business life and my life in general...
I am all over the place with some ridiculous episodes in my life resulting in broken bones, police, failed relationships, paranoia, arguments etc. I have tons of friends and many people see me as inspirational... I am creative and without sounding like an ego maniac very bright (Two first class degrees)...
But I am 43, single, can't stop drinking and smoking and struggle to stay off weed. The only reason I do it is to block stress out and to feel happy in my dream world...
I have plenty of opportunities with women and want to be settled down so much, but struggle to find the right fit... Can't work out if I'm just too fussy or what?
Please can you recommend something as I want to live my life cleanly, normally and healthily and I just don't believe in myself ability to do it anymore...
Thanks in advance. Peter
A: Dear Peter: I suppose you realize that alcohol and weed will only deepen your depression and anxiety, but as you say you are using these substances to try to find some relief. It is difficult to access whether or not you are bi-polar from your email, please take the bi-polar quiz in the disorders section of our web site as it may help guide you temporarily. You really should consult with a veteran mental health professional who specializes in mood and addiction disorders. Many very capable people suffer from disorganized lives filled with stress and overwhelming tension and there are therapies that can help immeasurably if you make the effort to fully engage in the process. Also consider reading"Managing the Stress of Success: How to Balance Work, Love and Well-Being" available on the web site. I wish you the best and hope you will pursue these recommendations as it is quite likely you can be helped to live the life you desire.
Depression or Bipolar?
Q: Hi, my name is Teri. I am 25. I've been on anti-depressants pretty much since i was 18. Had breaks.. I’ve never felt they’ve really improved me, only caused issues to be worse. I’ve tried many different ones. My moods are extremely up and down. I get irritable, frustrated, angry, annoyed. Over nothing 99% of he time. Completely out the blue, no control. I have not one negative in my life, i have a wonderful life. So why is this happening to me. I’ve spoken to doc many times and psychotherapist. I don’t feel they understand. Its easy fot them to assume depression....right.
I feel i may be bipolar from what I’ve read. How do i say this to the doctor. I’m scared he'll dismiss it. I need to know what’s wrong, i don’t feel normal. It’s ruining my mental health. Taking over me. Please help.
A: Dear Teri: I am very sorry you have suffered for so long. The symptoms you are describing could be related to bi-polar illness, and if so you may benefit from being on a mood stabilizer rather than an anti-depressant. I would strongly encourage to try again to meet with a clinical psychologist who is experienced in treating bi-polar illness and depression. Even though you believe your life is wonderful there may be hidden causes to your distress you are unaware of. Take the comments you made in this email and share them with the clinician you consult with, tell this individual how much you have suffered and request that you be given ample time so that he or she can make a proper diagnosis. You should not have to continue suffering, often times it takes several attempts before you click with a psychotherapist. Please do not give up, your life is worth living with happiness. I wish you the best and thank you for having the courage to write to us.
Diagnosed 2 years ago, but Am I bipolar?
Q: I've known I'm different forever. I've never been able to hold a job. I've been on disability for 35 years for a back defect. I was told by a doctor about 2 years ago filling in for my regular doc of 25 years I was bi polar. I was shocked and relieved. Shocked because I had never been told. relieved because it explained a lot. I still go through phases of thinking they're wrong and don't know what they're talking about. They gave me zyprexa and it worked great much to my dismay because in my head if a psych med works I must be a mental. I keep going off the med when I go through the mood that says you're not crazy they are. I also get paranoid that they're poisoning me on purpose because I'm worthless. So I guess my question is are my feelings normal for a person with bi polar? Or are they trying to poison me?
A: Dear Sir/Ms: It is in fact quite common for people with bi-polar to go off the very medications that help them for the reason you stated, " I must be mental". It often takes a significant time in psychotherapy to accept the reality that you have a disorder, it does not make you less than others but it is necessary to come to a time of acceptance for the genetic difficulty you were born with. Remember you didn't create this difficulty, it is likely as genetically based as the color of your eyes. Please make sure you see a mental health professional for regular psychotherapy as those with bi-polar who combine medication with psychotherapy have a far better outcome than those who take medications alone. I wish you the best in overcoming the idea that you are "mental" as you begin to accept the fact that you are "human". My Best
Success Anxiety
Q: Hello again: this is my second time to send you my problem or question, i would to thank you for helping me now am very ok with my first problem which was insomnia...
I am also always worried about my future and I want to study for my master degree overseas like London and am very worry about that I afraid not be successful in my studying; I am thinking a lot all the time. I want your help because I really want to study and it's my dream to study aboard......thank you again.
A: I am so glad to hear your insomnia problem has been solved. Please remember that when we try new things we often feel anxious, not knowing exactly how situations will turn out and how we will cope with a new environment. This is a natural reaction to having the courage to face a new, exciting challenge. I would also recommend reading and doing the exercises in Transforming Anxiety into Joy: A Workbook to Gain Emotional Freedom, available on the Soundmindz site. I wish you the best in pursuing your dream.
Worry causing Insomnia
Q: I am 23 graduated from college and i have a good work, but recently my friend died and i cannot sleep at night. I feel like i'll die and am afraid from everything....please help me; I am really in need.... thank you very much for your help..
A: Dear Ms. or Mr,: I am very sorry to hear of your friend's death. When we lose someone close to us it is natural to then be afraid of your own death as well as being more afraid than usual. Please talk to family and friends you are close to you about your fears, grief needs to be shared with others who care, the burden is too much to carry alone. If you find your fears continue regardless of the support and love of family and friends it will then be time to consult a mental health practitioner for psychotherapy. Also please watch "Overcoming Trauma and Insecurity" in the Video Therapy Section of the Soundmindz’ Website. I hope your fears lift very soon. Thank you for having the courage to seek help.
Accident Anxiety
Q: I think I am having Anxiety disorder. I always feel afraid of road accidents. I always prefer bus over my bike, I feel more safe travelling by bus. I am also afraid of losing my loved ones. I worry a lot about my father's health. So please tell me that is it Anxiety or anything else. And how to overcome it?
A: Dear Ms. or Mr: I strongly suggest reading Transforming Your Anxiety into Joy: A Practical Workbook to Gain Emotional Freedom. The workbook is available on the Soundmindz site and can be read on-line or in paperback. The book contains much information to help you identify the origins of your anxiety and also contains many recommendations as to how to free yourself of anxiety. If your symptoms worsen please consult the nearest mental health professional. I wish you the best.
Depression and Worry
Q: I have been taking medication for depression for a number of years now but I still feel my days and sleepless nights are filled with fear of people I love dying or becoming ill, I also worry that I die or become ill and my family will not cope. I imagine my own and my family's funerals and how awful it would be and I cannot get rid of these thoughts, they are there all the time. I fall asleep easily but cannot sleep all night after a few hours I wake every half or until the morning
A: Dear Ms. or Mr.: Although you have been taking anti-depressants for years you make no mention of being in psychotherapy with a qualified mental health professional. Medication alone seldom provides lasting relief. I would strongly suggest that you pursue a mental health clinician experienced in treating depression and schedule weekly if not twice weekly sessions. Your fears of loss are deep and you need help in finding out how it has come about that you fear loss so intensely. I can hear your pain and hope you will seek the help you deserve. In addition to seeking a therapeutic relationship you also have a medication review to make sure the anti-depressant you are taking is the one best suited for you. I wish you the best.
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