Can depression and anxiety lead to self-harming behavior?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have been depressed and anxious for a few years and do not know what to do. Talk works cannot help me and I do not know how I am going to survive waiting five years for my local gender identity clinic. I have started self-harming recently and do not know how to help myself. I am on antidepressants and have done blood tests which show normal reports. Kindly suggest.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and understand your concern. You may have a borderline personality disorder. It is a type of personality nature where you may have a chronic feeling of emptiness, emotional outbursts, overwhelming behavior, and self-harmful behavior. You mostly feel that no one understands you in this world. You may have difficulty keeping the relationship going for a long time. You may have frequent job-related issues. You may have an anger outburst. There is non-pharmacological management for it. You try to follow the below suggestions:

1. You should exercise daily for 30 to 45 minutes or at least go for a walk.

2. You should do meditation for 20 minutes daily, sit in one place in a comfortable position, and try to concentrate on your normal breathing, do not stop or force yourself to stop your thoughts, just let it be. This will help you to deal with your anxiety.

3. You should eat healthy home-cooked foods and avoid junk foods.

4. You should spend quality time with friends and family every day or video call them if you are living away from your family.

5. You should spend time on creative hobbies like reading good books, writing journals, painting, drawing, and learning new skills or language or musical instruments.

6. You should have seven to eight hours of sleep daily.

7. You must avoid tobacco or alcohol or any substance abuse.

Live your life, just do not spend it. Be bold and confident. I hope this helps you.

Thank you.