In the last week, I've started feeling occasionally depressed and moody for no apparent reason. I've been having problems with insomnia since winter break. This week it has become more pronounced, not only do I often feel moody for no reason, but I have also experienced stomach aches, nausea, and lack of appetite. The insomnia worsened, and I often woke up early, usually only getting about four hours of sleep. The whole person is particularly tired and feels tired even if he or she is not doing anything. Decreased desire, not wanting to communicate with anyone, occasional headaches, and thoughts of self-harm.
I wonder if I have depression, but know that a clinical diagnosis requires symptoms to last more than two weeks to be meaningful. So now I don't really want to go to the doctor, I'm burdened by the fear that I'll be devastated if I'm diagnosed, and would rather believe that it's just a temporary mood problem. But it's not good to procrastinate until two weeks, should I go for counseling first?
Hi, friend! A warm hug and handshake to you first.
❤ I'm Sunshine and I'm glad to talk to you. From your description, I can feel your worry, anxiety and desire to find answers. In this information-rich era, we can easily learn all kinds of knowledge, but sometimes our own "diagnosis" may not be accurate, so let's look at it calmly together.
Let's start with a brief analysis of your situation:
Increased moodiness and insomnia in the last week, along with physical discomfort such as stomach ache and nausea, indicate that you are sensitive to changes in your body, which is a good self-awareness. Signals from the body often remind us that we need to pay attention to our health.
You suspect depression but are worried about confirming the diagnosis, this is a normal feeling for many people. Don't be quick to label yourself, we can start by dealing with it positively.
❤ ❤ ❤ ❤
I have a few practical suggestions for your situation:
First, accept how you feel right now and don't be quick to deny yourself. Think back, has anything special happened recently? Or just everyday stress? Even if you can't find an obvious cause, physical discomfort is a reminder that it's time to take care of yourself. As psychologist Wu Zhihong says in The Body Knows the Answer, the body doesn't lie, so listen to it more.
Second, if you can still hold on, try to start adjusting from the small habits of life. For example, eat a better breakfast and more foods rich in omega-3s; get 15 minutes of sunshine every day to help activate your body; exercise moderately, talk to friends, or get into a favorite hobby. Try relaxation techniques if you have insomnia at night. Take action and maybe the symptoms will ease.
Third, go to a regular hospital or mental health center as soon as possible to see and clear your doubts. Even if depression is diagnosed, don't be afraid, it is like a cold in the mind and can be improved through regular treatment and counseling. Instead of worrying, take the initiative to face it. Usually you can read books like "Embrace Your Depressed Mood" to understand depression scientifically and learn self-regulation methods.
Remember that a positive, scientific attitude is the key to dealing with depression. Let's get rid of the "black dog of depression" in the right way.
❤ I hope my sharing helps you, I'm a doctor and counselor sunshine, in, the world and I love you!