Other Emotional Health Issues / Question
Published: March 7, 2001
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I need some help and I think my problem is serious, I wanted someone to ask about it and I don't want to ask family or anyone. I want to be anonymous so I thought this would be the way to go. Recently I've been thinking I may have some kind of disorder because my mind thinks of really disgusting things and I don't want it to and it is hard making it stop. It thinks of things like death and family members having sex, and all kinds of stuff I don't want to think about, but it does. Am I seriously messed up or what? Please help me soon seriously.
Signed: Messed Up Mind
Dear Messed Up Mind,
TeenHealthFX does not think, "you are seriously messed up". It sounds like you are confused and really stressed out. Having intrusive thoughts is not uncommon and can be very scary. These thoughts are like unwelcome guests, they come uninvited and without warning. Often times a person does not want to tell anybody what he or she has been thinking out of fear of how another person will react. After awhile, the reoccurring thoughts can make you feel trapped with no place to go.
TeenHealthFX is glad you trusted our website to share what is going on with you. Be assured that your problem is something a person can experience when going through a stressful time and the mind's coping skills are on overload. The important thing to remember is that there are people available to help you with problems. Just talking about it gets it out in the open where it can be dealt with. Often times your parents, teachers, school nurse or school counselor can help guide you through a difficult time.
If you think your problem needs more intensive help, you could see a therapist. A therapist will be able to help you get past the fear and pain that is making your life unhappy. Let your parents know that you are struggling and they will help you set up an appointment. If you are not sure where to go and you live in northern New Jersey, you can call the Access Center at Atlantic Behavioral Health at 888.247.1400 for an appointment.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
Girls are more likely to intentionally abuse prescription drugs than boys.
