When life is overwhelming. Stress, anxiety, fear of tomorrow…

There are situations in life that are literally paralyzing. Your thoughts revolve around this one problem, everything around you reminds you of it, and it prevents you from functioning normally. And the worst is the feeling of helplessness! It doesn't matter if the problem is personal, unique to you, in your family, with your partner, at work, or of a social nature—a pandemic, war, the suffering of innocent victims, growing hatred. A difficult situation always affects our mental health, causing fatigue, discouragement, frustration, and growing fear for the future, your sense of security, and the everyday normalcy you love so much.

How to deal with such a difficult situation?

First and foremost, you need to acknowledge the problem and accept what you have no control over. Helplessness is a feeling you must come to terms with, even though it seems impossible. Name your feelings! Have you been feeling anxiety and uncertainty about the future for a long time, causing your body to operate in a constant state of tension? You produce too much cortisol, adrenaline, and noradrenaline. This hormonal "mess" has far-reaching consequences. In the long run, stress wears you down—sapping your strength and preventing you from resting.

What does long-term stress do to you?

Uncertainty and helplessness, felt over a long period of time, create stress that doesn't easily subside. And what are the consequences? Research findings are clear. As a result of the coronavirus pandemic, nearly one in four Poles has experienced symptoms of depression. Worryingly, however, most people are unwilling to consult a specialist.

Why is this happening? After all, you wouldn't try to fix a broken leg or pull a toothache on your own. The same should be true for a "broken soul." If you feel overwhelmed by life's situations, or you can't cope with your emotions, don't try to heal yourself .

How can a psychologist help?

First, remember that a low mood doesn't always mean depression. Sometimes it's a consequence of problems you can't cope with. If your low mood doesn't interfere with your daily functioning and you don't notice symptoms like difficulty concentrating, insomnia, or psychosomatic pain, you can consult a psychologist. A specialist will teach you how to cope with problems, suggest ways to resolve conflicts in the family or at work, and show you how to cope with everyday stress. If you're unable to determine whether your symptoms indicate the beginnings of depression, a visit to a psychologist is also a good option. They can assess your condition and, if necessary, refer you to a psychiatrist.

Take advantage of the advice of a psychologist, especially since we can choose to visit one of the many CM Luxmed clinics.

Who will find help at a psychological counseling center:

– children and adolescents with various developmental, emotional and cognitive difficulties,
– parents having problems raising children,
– people in difficult life situations,
– people with depression,
– people experiencing a lack of life satisfaction,
– if you have difficulties communicating and cooperating with your environment,
– in situations where you have problems with self-esteem and autonomy.

When to see a psychiatrist?

A psychiatrist is a medical specialist who can help you through difficult, crisis situations. a psychiatrist when symptoms related to a low mood interfere with your daily functioning. If you lack the energy to live, experience anxiety and fear (often unfounded), or have trouble concentrating and sleeping. Such a visit is essential if you notice suicidal thoughts! In such a situation, you should not hesitate for a moment! People with serious health problems that significantly worsen their mental health often need a psychiatrist's consultation and support.

A psychiatrist is the only mental health specialist who can prescribe medication or issue a sick note. Modern antidepressants no longer have as many side effects as those from decades ago. They also don't have addictive properties, so we don't need to worry if a doctor recommends long-term use.

You do not need a referral to a psychiatric clinic.

To summarize, in what situations can a psychiatrist help you? If you experience:   

– mood disorders, anxiety and psychosomatic disorders,
– depression, neurosis, alcohol addiction,
– insomnia,
– psychotic crises, adjustment disorders,
– mental disorders of old age.