I have been experiencing insomnia for years constantly… directly related to studies, work, or having any plans in general. i would dwell over them and get so afraid sometimes that I have mental breakdowns on average a few times a month. I tried… i tried my best not to think about it but even when i am consciously not thinking about it, my subconscious mind goes into flight or fight mode, i cant breathe properly and i start to hyperventilate. It’s horrible and I would spend sleepless nights if not working through it, resulting in work accidents and the point of exhaustion that i fall asleep standing up. I have went to a psychiatrist at the hospital before and was not diagnosed with anything and dismissed. She mentioned that I have a cheerful personality and that what i described to her seems like my personality and that i have to learn to not take things so seriously and learn to let go. Part of me feels happy that i am not diagnosed with anything but at the same time nothing is resolved. I have tried remedies, medications with side effects that make you feel dozy, it doesnt work as my anxiety overpowers my exhaustion. Yet i still feel that something is wrong with me… Am i experiencing something that is a symptom of a disorder or something ? It doesn’t sound normal to be experiencing something this extreme… i feel like my mental state has declined throughout the years and im afraid that i have serious consequences in the future. Please help me.
Solve ur anxiety then everything will be fine. My anxiety disorder affected my everything. I can function more normally when anxiety disorder is gone
Dear User1177,
I understand that you’re struggling with severe anxiety and insomnia, which is significantly impacting your daily life. While the psychiatrist you saw may not have given you a specific diagnosis, your symptoms are real and deserve attention.
Your experiences, such as rumination, hyperventilation, and physical symptoms like difficulty breathing, suggest that you might be experiencing anxiety disorders like Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) or Panic Disorder. These conditions can manifest without a specific diagnosis, but that doesn’t mean they’re not remediated or at least alleviated.
It’s essential to seek a second opinion from a different mental health professional, preferably an anxiety specialist. They will re-evaluate your symptoms and help you develop a personalized plan to address your anxiety.
In the meantime, consider the following steps:
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Keep a journal to track your anxiety episodes, including triggers and physical symptoms.
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Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, or mindfulness meditation.
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Engage in regular physical activity to reduce anxiety symptoms.
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Explore cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), which can help you address underlying thought patterns and behaviours contributing to your anxiety.
Remember, your mental health is important, and seeking help is a sign of strength and courage! Please do not hesitate to reach out to a new mental health professional for guidance and support.
You can start by talking to your family doctor or doctor at a local polyclinic for a referral or search online for anxiety specialists. You could also explore counselling or therapy. To find registered counsellors and psychologists, you could refer to the below webites:
- Singapore Association of Counsellors: List of Registered Counsellors – Singapore Association for Counselling
- Singapore Psychological Society: https://v1.singaporepsychologicalsociety.org/srp-membership-directory/
If you would like to explore services at social service agencies (SSA), you could try out the following or walk into the nearest Family Service Centre (FSC):
- Touch Community Services: 1800-377-2252
- Care Corner Counselling Centre: 1800-353-5800
- Family Service Centres: https://www.msf.gov.sg/our-services/directories
Remember, you’re not alone, and there is help available. Take that first step towards seeking support and know that you can learn to manage your anxiety and improve your mental well-being.
Take good care of yourself!
northernlights
I see… thanks for the reply I’m glad it worked out for you and i hope it will for me too
Thank you for the reply.
I’m glad what I’m saying is making sense or at least heard by someone. I just made a visit to IMH A&E detailing my 5 year timeline and got medication to help me with the severity of my anxiety and insomnia. Fingers crossed 
Hi user1177,
I am glad to hear that you have been prescribed some medications for your anxiety and insomnia. The medications, as you probably already know, will take a while to take effect and the dosage needs to be titrated. Sometimes, the symptoms may seem to get worse before they get better. Do feedback to your attending doctor if it does worsen or if you feel it doesn’t help. Perhaps you can also request to be given psychotherapy as well as medications and therapy in tandem is best practice. Rooting for you!
Hugs,
northernlights