Stress had been an overwhelming part of my life for as long as I could remember. Whether it was work deadlines, family expectations, or just the general hustle and bustle of living in a fast-paced city like Seoul, I felt like I was always on edge. It got to the point where the stress started affecting my sleep, my physical health, and even my relationships. I knew I needed help, but I wasn’t sure where to turn, especially in a country where mental health isn’t always openly discussed.
After hearing some positive feedback from a few expats in Korea, I decided to make an appointment at Seoul Psychiatry Clinic in Gangnam, and it turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
My First Visit: Understanding Stress and Its Impact
When I first walked into the clinic, I was feeling anxious and a bit overwhelmed by the idea of seeking help. But from the start, Dr. Paul J. Woo put me at ease. He took the time to ask about my lifestyle, work-life balance, and what stressors were particularly impacting me. Instead of just focusing on the symptoms, Dr. Woo wanted to understand the bigger picture, which really helped me feel heard and understood.
Stress Management Treatments Offered:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Dr. Woo recommended Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as one of the core treatments. CBT helps you identify negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to stress. Through the sessions, I learned practical techniques to reframe my thinking, manage my stress triggers, and develop healthier coping strategies. The therapy gave me tools to deal with day-to-day stress more effectively and to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
- Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: One of the most transformative aspects of my treatment was learning mindfulness-based stress reduction techniques. Dr. Woo introduced me to breathing exercises, guided meditation, and body scans—simple but incredibly effective tools for staying grounded and calm in stressful situations. These practices didn’t just help during therapy sessions; I began incorporating them into my daily routine, and over time, they made a huge difference in my stress levels.
- Biofeedback Therapy: Another interesting treatment at the clinic was biofeedback therapy. It’s a non-invasive technique that helps you gain awareness of your body’s physiological responses to stress (like heart rate and muscle tension) and learn how to control them. This was a game-changer for me. Once I understood how my body reacted to stress, I could use relaxation techniques to calm myself down much more effectively.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Dr. Woo also helped me take a more holistic approach to managing my stress. We talked about things like sleep hygiene, the importance of physical activity, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. It felt like a total reset for my approach to daily life, and these small changes have had a big impact on my stress levels over the long term.
- Medication (If Necessary): While I didn’t end up needing medication for stress specifically, Dr. Woo explained that some patients benefit from medication if their stress is impacting their ability to function. They offer a range of options, including anti-anxiety medications or antidepressants, but Dr. Woo emphasized that they always try non-medication treatments first, which I appreciated.
How Effective Were These Treatments for Long-Term Wellness?
Looking back, the treatments at Seoul Psychiatry were incredibly effective, not just in managing my stress in the moment, but in building long-term resilience. I learned how to address the root causes of my stress, not just deal with the symptoms. The techniques I learned in CBT and mindfulness have stuck with me, and I’ve been able to apply them in various situations since.
For the first time in a long while, I feel like I have control over my stress. I can manage work pressures without burning out, I’m sleeping better, and I’ve noticed an improvement in my physical health as well—less frequent headaches, lower blood pressure, and a more balanced mood overall.
I also want to mention Dr. Han-mil Choi, who I had the pleasure of meeting during my treatment. His calm and empathetic approach to therapy really helped me stay engaged in the process. He has a knack for making you feel heard and understood, which made a huge difference during tough moments.
Why I Recommend Seoul Psychiatry Clinic:
If you’re in Korea and dealing with stress, Seoul Psychiatry Clinic in Gangnam is a fantastic place to get help. Their approach is comprehensive and personalized, combining therapeutic techniques, lifestyle changes, and even cutting-edge treatments like biofeedback. The clinic offers a space where you can really dig deep into what’s causing your stress and find long-term solutions, rather than just short-term relief.
If you’re struggling with stress and want to take a proactive approach to your mental health, I highly recommend making an appointment. The team at Seoul Psychiatry Clinic helped me not only manage my stress but also improve my overall mental wellness.
Here’s their information: Seoul Psychiatry Clinic – Gangnam
Dr. Paul J. Woo
Dr. Han-mil Choi