[25M] Experiencing worsening anxiety and anger issues

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, it seems like you may be experiencing a combination of anxiety and possibly depression. Here's a breakdown of what might be happening:

• Anxiety: Your symptoms of overthinking, panic in response to normal interactions, and self-critical thoughts are common in anxiety disorders. Anxiety can manifest in various ways, including generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, or panic disorder. Treatment often involves therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and sometimes medication.

• Depression: Given your history and family history of depression, it's possible that some of your symptoms, like feelings of inadequacy and intense anger, could be related to depression. Depression can also exacerbate anxiety symptoms. Treatment typically includes therapy and may involve antidepressant medications.

• Anger and Impulse Control: The intense waves of anger and thoughts of physical retaliation could be related to underlying anxiety or depression, or they might indicate a separate issue with impulse control. Therapy can help address these feelings and develop healthier coping mechanisms.

What you can do

Anxiety and Depression:

• Seek Professional Help: Consider reaching out to a mental health professional, such as a therapist or counselor. They can provide a formal diagnosis and help you explore treatment options. Therapy, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can be effective for both anxiety and depression.

• Lifestyle Changes: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep can help improve mood and reduce anxiety. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation or yoga, can also be beneficial.

• Limit Alcohol and Tobacco: Reducing alcohol consumption and smoking can have positive effects on your mental health. These substances can sometimes worsen anxiety and depression symptoms.

• Use MDandMe: Consider using MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track your progress, and gain insights into your mental health. This can also help you share detailed information with your healthcare provider.

Anger Management:

• Identify Triggers: Try to identify specific situations or interactions that trigger your anger. Understanding these triggers can help you develop strategies to manage your reactions.

• Develop Coping Strategies: Work with a therapist to develop coping strategies for managing anger, such as deep breathing exercises, counting to ten, or taking a break from the situation.

What you should look out for

While your symptoms are concerning, they are not immediately life-threatening. However, it's important to seek help if you experience:

• Thoughts of self-harm or harming others
• Severe mood swings or changes in behavior
• Difficulty functioning in daily life

Remember, seeking help from a healthcare professional is crucial for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. You don't have to navigate this alone, and support is available.