[18M] Experiencing intense thoughts and mood changes

Patient Description

An 18-year-old male has been experiencing intense, mind-blowing thoughts about solving universe-related problems for the past three years, often triggered by stress. He reports severe mood swings, including episodes of mania and depression, lasting from one to three days. During manic episodes, he feels very happy and connected to others, while stress induces paranoia and distrust. He holds beliefs about a god named Farooq and experiences extreme déjà vu, epiphanies, and flashes of unfamiliar memories. He sometimes talks to himself as if others are speaking and feels like he's switching timelines, noticing changes in his appearance in the mirror. Diagnosed with schizotypal personality disorder two to three months ago, he cannot take risperidone or antidepressants due to side effects and has an allergy to amoxicillin. He is currently taking propranolol for anxiety.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Your experiences and symptoms could be related to several mental health conditions:

  • Schizotypal Personality Disorder (STPD): This condition can involve unusual beliefs, thoughts, and perceptions, as well as social anxiety and paranoia. Your experiences with intense thoughts, beliefs about Farooq, and feeling disconnected from reality align with STPD.

  • Mood Disorders: The episodes of mania and depression you describe could suggest a mood disorder. While you mentioned not being bipolar, mood swings can occur in other conditions as well.

  • Stress and Anxiety: Stress seems to trigger some of your symptoms, which is common in many mental health conditions.

Typical treatments for these conditions may include therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and medications. It's important to work closely with a mental health professional to find the right approach for you.

What you can do

Managing Stress and Anxiety:

  • Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.
  • Maintain a regular sleep schedule and ensure you get enough rest.
  • Use MDandMe to journal your thoughts and track your mood patterns.

Addressing Mood Swings:

  • Engage in regular physical activity, which can help stabilize mood.
  • Establish a routine to provide structure to your day.
  • Discuss any changes in symptoms with your healthcare provider.

Dealing with Unusual Thoughts and Beliefs:

  • Consider therapy to explore and understand these thoughts in a safe environment.
  • Stay connected with supportive friends or family members.
  • Avoid substances that might exacerbate symptoms.

What you should look out for

  • If you experience any thoughts of self-harm or harm to others, seek immediate help from a healthcare professional or contact emergency services.
  • Monitor any changes in your symptoms, especially if they become more intense or frequent.
  • Keep an eye on how your symptoms affect your daily life and relationships, and discuss these with your healthcare provider.

Remember, it's important to work with a mental health professional to receive a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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8 mo ago

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People Also Ask


What is schizotypal personality disorder and how does it affect someone?

Schizotypal personality disorder (STPD) is a mental health condition characterized by unusual thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors, as well as difficulties in forming close relationships. People with STPD may experience social anxiety, paranoia, and perceptual distortions, which can affect their daily functioning.


How can mood swings be managed without medication?

Mood swings can be managed through lifestyle changes such as regular physical activity, maintaining a structured daily routine, and engaging in therapy like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). It's important to work with a healthcare provider to find strategies that work best for the individual.


What are some effective ways to manage stress and anxiety?

Effective ways to manage stress and anxiety include practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga, maintaining a regular sleep schedule, and journaling to track thoughts and mood patterns. These practices can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being.


Why might someone experience intense déjà vu and unfamiliar memories?

Intense déjà vu and unfamiliar memories can be related to various mental health conditions, including schizotypal personality disorder. These experiences might be linked to unusual thought patterns or perceptual distortions. It's important to discuss these symptoms with a mental health professional to better understand and address them.


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