According to Dr. Bui Van Loi of the Mental Health Institute at Bach Mai Hospital, someone at the peak of negative emotions can rarely shift their perspective instantly. They need external support, especially medical intervention, to navigate the crisis.
Three factors trap people in negative thinking. First, there are biological imbalances in the brain. Mood disorders like depression often involve imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. These deficiencies diminish the ability to feel joy and hope, making suicidal thoughts a symptom of illness rather than a simple choice.
Second, emotions can overwhelm logic. When pain and despair peak, the emotional part of the brain overpowers the areas responsible for logic and planning. This hinders clear thinking and problem-solving, like a "flood" washing away reason.
Third, distorted thinking patterns emerge. Depression often involves extremes like "all-or-nothing" thinking, overgeneralization, or focusing solely on the negative. These patterns become automatic and powerful, making it hard to recognize their irrationality.
"When experiencing negative emotions and suicidal thoughts, seeking immediate help is crucial. Don't try to cope alone," Dr. Loi advises.
Overcoming negative emotions involves several steps:
Share your feelings: Don't keep them bottled up. Confide in a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional. Talking can alleviate loneliness and provide needed support.
Call a helpline: Contact the Bach Mai Hospital Mental Health Institute's hotline at 1900.888.866 or other support lines.
Create a safety plan: If you feel a high risk of suicide, develop a safety plan. This includes a list of people to call, safe places to go, distracting activities, and removal of potentially harmful items.
Seek professional help: Psychiatrists or clinical psychologists can assess your condition and recommend appropriate therapy. External support, including therapy (CBT, DBT) and medication, can stabilize emotions, change negative thoughts, and teach healthy coping skills.
Practice self-care: Prioritize enough sleep, a healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding stimulants to improve energy and mood.
Overcoming emotional disorders can be challenging, but you're not alone. Seeking help is a sign of strength. With proper support, you can overcome this phase and build a healthier, happier life.
Le Nga
