PRABHAT VERMA
PSYCHIATRIST, TMH

What are the most common mental problems prevalent among people?

There are a few common disorders like depression, schizophrenia, excessive anxiety and drug and alcohol abuse.

Are these problems on the rise?

Psychiatric problems have not suddenly surfaced. It was always there. But today it has become easier to prepare a data because people have started visiting psychiatrists. But I think there has been a conspicuous rise in such cases. Expectations have suddenly increased. In this competitive world people are constantly thinking of ways to outwit others. Life has become taxing and people find it difficult to cope with pressures.

Why do you think more and more stress-related cases are being reported every year?

This has been possible because of the awareness generated by the media. Earlier stress and depression were not taken seriously and popping pills for temporary relief seemed enough. But now people have realised that counselling is more beneficial than pills.

What remedies are available to cure such disorders?

The remedy available is primarily pharmacotherapy, which involves medication and psychotherapy. Therapy also includes behavioural modification which begins once the patient starts opening up to the doctor.

Is there some kind of resistance which a psychiatrist faces from his patients?

There is a lot of resistance from patient, especially when there is so little awareness. People think a visit to the psychiatrist would mean that they are insane and they would he branded an outcast. But of all the patients who visit a psychiatrist only one per cent are diagnosed as madness.

What changes would you like to bring about in the field of psychiatry?

Awareness is the most crucial change that I would like to bring about. Just like a body can have problems, the mind too can. And it can be treated.

Savvy Soumya