Psychiatrist

Conditions Treated

• •Depression — More than sadness — a medical condition affecting brain chemistry, causing persistent low mood, loss of interest, and physical symptoms.
• •Anxiety Disorders — Excessive worry and fear that interferes with daily life — includes generalized anxiety, social anxiety, and phobias.
• •Bipolar Disorder — Condition causing extreme mood swings between manic highs and depressive lows.
• •OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) — Recurring unwanted thoughts (obsessions) leading to repetitive behaviours (compulsions).
• •Insomnia — Persistent difficulty falling or staying asleep despite adequate opportunity, affecting daytime functioning.

Health Tips

• •Seek help early — mental health conditions are medical, not character flaws
• •Maintain a regular sleep schedule
• •Exercise is a proven antidepressant
• •Stay connected — isolation worsens mental health
• •Limit alcohol — it's a depressant, not a coping tool
• •Practice mindfulness or deep breathing daily

How to Prepare for Your Visit

• •Write down your main concerns and symptoms — it's harder to remember during the appointment
• •Note when symptoms started, what triggers them, and what helps
• •List all medications, supplements, and substances you use
• •Bring a trusted family member if you're comfortable — they can provide additional perspective
• •Be honest about your feelings — there is no judgement in a psychiatrist's office
• •Mention any substance use — alcohol, cannabis, or other drugs affect treatment
• •Discuss sleep patterns, appetite, energy levels, and concentration
• •Ask about confidentiality — your information is protected by medical ethics
• •Give medication at least 2-4 weeks before judging its effect — most psychiatric medications take time to work
• •Don't stop medication suddenly without doctor's advice — tapering is usually necessary
• •Keep a mood diary to track progress
• •Reach out immediately if you experience worsening symptoms or suicidal thoughts

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

• •Is medication necessary, or can therapy alone help?
• •How long will I need to take this medication?
• •What side effects should I watch for?
• •Will this medication interact with anything I take?
• •Should I also see a psychologist/therapist?
• •Is my condition genetic — should my family be aware?

When to See a Specialist

A Psychiatrist is a medical doctor specializing in mental health — depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other conditions. They can prescribe medication unlike psychologists.

• •Persistent sadness or hopelessness lasting more than 2 weeks
• •Severe anxiety affecting daily life and work
• •Panic attacks — sudden intense fear with physical symptoms
• •Sleep problems — insomnia or sleeping too much
• •Hearing voices or seeing things others don't
• •Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
• •Addiction — alcohol, drugs, or behavioural addictions
• •Mood swings — extreme highs and lows

CRISIS: If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, call iCall (9152987821) or Vandrevala Foundation (1860-2662-345) immediately. You are not alone.