Birth of a child is one of the most beautiful moments in the life of a couple.  However, there are often unnoticed cases of depression which occurs in parents (mostly mothers) post the birth.  This condition is known as Postpartum Depression.  The condition is often confused with baby blues.  Baby blues occurs in mother’s post-delivery due to the hormonal imbalance in their bodies.  Postpartum depression on the other hand is more long term and serious condition.

Postpartum Depression is characterized by a number of symptoms which includes irritability, extreme sadness or frustration, irregular eating habits, low energy, feeling moody or restless, physical aches including frequent headaches, trouble over bonding with the baby and also doubts about the ability to take care of the baby. The onset of postpartum depression usually takes place between two to three weeks after pregnancy although there are cases where it starts right after birth and certain case where it starts month before or after the birth. If untreated, it can last for months or years which can endanger the lives of both the mother and the child.

Not all of the symptoms are exhibited by the parents who are under postpartum depression.  The symptoms can vary from person to person and it is important to visit the doctor in order to properly assess and diagnose the condition.  In mothers, hormonal changes during and after pregnancy is one of the main cause which leads to Postpartum Depression.  The levels of oestrogen and progesterone are higher in women during the time of pregnancy and the sudden drop of these hormones after giving birth causes this condition.

While usually mothers can develop PPD, fathers can also develop similar mood changes due to the emotional turmoil. Half of the men whose wife is under postpartum depression are depressed themselves. And if untreated in men, studies claim dads turn out to be violent towards their kids. Couples who are unprepared for child can experience more stress and are more vulnerable to the chances of developing the condition. PPD can have a negative effect on children and babies too as mothers may become hostile towards them. This might disrupt the proper development of the children which might lead them to be anxious, fearful and unresponsive towards people. Studies reveal that babies who are breastfed by mothers who suffer from PPD gain weight at a slower rate than the babies whose mothers don’t suffer from PPD.

Although antidepressants can be prescribed if necessary after detailed evaluation by a professional. It is highly recommended that parents seek help from a professional psychologist or psychiatrists. Apart from these couples can attend counselling sessions. Spending time with family members and loved ones are also considered to be effective to tackle feelings of isolation. Maintaining a healthy diet and proper sleep are equally important during PPD.

Dr. Naveen Jayaram
Psychiatry – Bengaluru

The post Postpartum Depression – An Overlooked Challenge appeared first on Health Vision.

Anxiety and depression are among the most prevalent mental health conditions affecting a significant portion of the global population. Approximately 350 million individuals worldwide grapple with anxiety disorders annually, with 1 in 10 individuals at risk of experiencing them at some point. Recognizing these issues constitutes the initial step towards addressing anxiety and depression. Familiarizing yourself with the symptoms not only enhances understanding but also aids in proactive decision-making for a healthier future.

Distinguishing between the symptoms of anxiety and depression can be challenging for many. However, it’s essential to recognize that these conditions often coexist, with anxiety and depression acting as two sides of the same coin. As the saying goes, “We get anxious when we are depressed, and we become depressed when we are anxious.”

Anxiety Disorders
Individuals dealing with anxiety disorders may experience heightened fear or unease in specific situations, accompanied by physical symptoms such as perspiration and a racing heart. While some level of anxiety in unfamiliar situations is normal and healthy, persistent and overwhelming anxious thoughts can significantly impact daily life, relationships, and overall well-being.

Key indicators of prolonged anxiety include:
Sleep disturbances
Rapid breathing
Sweating
Palpitations
Rapid heartbeat
Agitation
Feelings of despair
Fatigue
Difficulty focusing on anything other than the current problem

Causes of Anxiety Disorders
Contrary to misconceptions associating anxiety issues with lack of confidence or self-esteem, these conditions require careful, patient, and medical intervention. They are not caused by personal flaws, emotional weaknesses, or parenting issues. Various factors can trigger anxiety, including:
Genetic predisposition
Trauma
Chemical instability resulting from extreme or chronic stress

Types of Anxiety Disorders
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Characterized by repetitive actions aimed at alleviating obsessive thoughts.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Involves intense and unreasonable stress without apparent justification.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Occurs after exposure to a traumatic event.
Panic Disorder: Marked by sporadic, intense feelings of dread or fear.
Social Phobia or Social Anxiety Disorder: Involves extreme self-consciousness and anxiety in public encounters.

When to Consult a Doctor
If you are experiencing anxiety-related symptoms, it is advisable to consult a doctor promptly. Waiting until symptoms worsen or additional issues arise is unnecessary. You don’t need to exhibit all anxiety symptoms to seek professional advice.

Treatment & Medications
The primary treatments for pervasive anxiety disorders include psychotherapy and medication. Combining both approaches may yield the best results, although finding the most effective treatment for an individual may require some experimentation. Cognitive-behavioural therapy has proven to be particularly successful in treating anxiety disorders. Don’t hesitate to seek help; your mental well-being is paramount.

Dr. Chalapathy
Vydehi Super Specialty Hospital (VSH), Vittal
Mallya Road, Ashok Nagar, Bengaluru 500001
Ph: 080-22277979/9148972991
Vydehi Institute of Medical
Sciences & RC, White field, Bangalore – 560066
ph : +91-80-4906 9000 Extn:1147/1366 www.vims.ac.in

The post Identifying and Mitigating Anxiety Issues appeared first on Health Vision.

Teenagers are today spending excessive time on social media, which is adversely impacting their mental health. Today, our lives have become predominantly online due to covid and its aftereffects, be it work, school, or catching up with friends. As teenagers spend majority of their time on social media, it results in them becoming more introverted and they begin to face difficulties in making friends and talking to people. Teenagers are being guided by a virtual, fake world where there is immense competition, comparative issues, financial hardships, and fleeting, multiple relationships.

Additionally, sedentary lifestyle has given rise to various addictions be it a gaming, social media, pornography, or gambling addiction. The National Alliance on Mental Illness cites that one in five teenagers, aged 13-18, will have a mental illness. 11% of the population would suffer from a mood disorder like depression, or bipolar disorder and 8% would be diagnosed with an anxiety disorder like GAD, panic disorder, OCD, or social anxiety disorder.

Children today are more concerned about their followers on social media rather than developing friendships in flesh and blood. This could negatively affect teenagers by distracting them, disrupting their sleep, and could expose them to bullying, rumour spreading, unrealistic views of other people’s lives and immense peer pressure. Behavioural changes like not spending enough time with friends and family, being aloof and low, spending more time on the phone and in the room, having a drastic change in academic results and seeing changes in mood and behaviour are concerning and should be looked into urgently

Mental health and psychological issues being witnessed in children today are depression, anxiety, loneliness, ADHD, eating disorders, behavioural issues, parent-child bonding issues, identity crisis, peer pressure, relationship issues be it parent-child or amongst friends, sexual concerns, and abuse/violence. Most of these can be attributed to the growing use of social media in the daily lives of children/adolescents today. Furthermore, it also could lead to an identity crisis as there is a major tussle between virtual relationships and real relationships today.

For Parents, educating younger kids on the risks of social media is of paramount importance. Their device time must be restricted to maintain a healthy balance and certain sites and webpages should be filtered through site blockers for age-appropriate viewing. Parents could also utilize cyberbullying resources, could stay up to date on their child’s privacy settings and should set ground rules for social media use. It is also crucial to understand that communication is not built overnight. It must be developed slowly and gradually over a period of time. Gentle communication should be practiced through effective ways like engaging one’s child in routine conversations, be it about news or worldly affairs, information about relatives and family life, personal tales, etc. Moreover, having at least one family meal a deal would greatly complement this practice. Furthermore, restricting activity or movement will do you no good, until and unless it is for younger children

Various studies from across the world clearly indicate a deep link between high levels of social media use and depression or anxiety symptoms. Multiple studies show that people who use social media excessively, do so because they are either bored, need an escape from their immediate physical environment, are feeling overwhelmed and stressed, are lonely, have few real-time friends or need to feel appreciated and validated. The use of social media by teenagers may sometimes turn into seeking validation for personal moments leaving adolescents develop mental health issues. It can also force different behavioral outcomes from teenagers as they might feel that parents are less present in the moment with them. Therefore, engaging in social media too much takes a toll on teenagers’ mental health as they themselves start to look for appreciation and validation from strangers.

Parents must actively work towards achieving a balance, which is the major concern! When the balance is lost, that’s when things start going downhill. The best way to keep it in check is to create and maintain trust.  Trust is a two-way street and must be respected by both parties involved. One should understand early on that communication is key and forcing one’s child into anything will not yield any beneficial results. Listen to your children and try to understand them – the relationship with all its facets should be organic and natural, and this could easily be achieved by using methods of autonomy and responsibility for your children/adolescents.

As more children and teenagers are drawn towards cell phones and technology, it is in their best interest that parents take substantial interest in physical activities. Instead of just stopping children usage of technology, parents need to understand that they need to set examples by their own actions.

Dr Rachna Khanna Singh
Consultant – Mental Health and Behavioural Science
Artemis Hospital Gurugram

The post Social media: Adversely impacting on mental health appeared first on Health Vision.

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of mental health and its impact on individuals and communities. While progress has been made in reducing the stigma surrounding mental health, there is still much work to be done. One powerful tool that can contribute to breaking the stigma is media representation. By portraying mental health issues accurately and compassionately, the media can shape the discourse surrounding mental health and promote understanding and empathy.

Media has an enormous influence on society, shaping perceptions, attitudes, and beliefs. It has the power to both perpetuate stereotypes and challenge them. Unfortunately, mental health has often been misrepresented in the media, perpetuating negative stereotypes and reinforcing stigma. Characters with mental health conditions are frequently depicted as dangerous, unpredictable, or simply dismissed as “crazy.” Such portrayals not only misrepresent the reality of mental health but also contribute to fear, misunderstanding, and discrimination.

However, things are slowly changing. Over the past decade, there has been a notable increase in media representations that aim to depict mental health issues more accurately and sensitively. When media accurately represents mental health, it has the potential to challenge stereotypes and generate empathy. By showcasing diverse experiences and highlighting the common humanity in all of us, media representation can break down the barriers that contribute to stigma. When viewers see relatable characters struggling with mental health, they may feel less alone in their own experiences or gain a better understanding of what their loved ones might be going through.

Media representation can also play a role in educating the public about mental health. It can provide accurate information, debunk myths, and promote help-seeking behaviors. When media depicts characters seeking therapy, reaching out for support, or engaging in self-care, it normalizes these actions and encourages viewers to do the same. By showing that recovery is possible and that seeking help is a sign of strength, media can inspire individuals to take their own mental health seriously.

Furthermore, media representation can influence public policy and resource allocation. When mental health is portrayed authentically and compassionately, it can generate public awareness and demand for better mental health services. This, in turn, can lead to increased funding, improved access to care, and a more supportive environment for individuals living with mental health conditions.

Of course, media representation alone cannot solve the complex issue of mental health stigma. It is just one piece of the puzzle. Other factors such as education, legislation, and community support are also crucial. However, media has a unique reach and impact that cannot be ignored. By harnessing the power of storytelling and visual representation, media can shape public perceptions and influence social change.

Media representation plays a vital role in shaping mental health discourse and breaking the stigma surrounding mental health. Accurate and compassionate portrayals in film, television, and other forms of media have the power to challenge stereotypes, generate empathy, educate the public, and influence policy. As consumers of media, we have a responsibility to demand accurate and sensitive portrayals of mental health. By doing so, we can contribute to a society that understands, accepts, and supports individuals with mental health conditions. Together, we can break the stigma and create a more inclusive and compassionate world.

Dr. Jyoti Kapoor
Founder-Director and Senior Psychiatrist
Manasthali

The post How Media Representation Can Shape Mental Health Discourse. appeared first on Health Vision.

In today’s fast-paced and competitive work environment, ensuring the well-being of employees is more important than ever. Mental health plays a crucial role in employee performance, job satisfaction, and overall productivity. However, many workplaces still struggle to address this sensitive issue adequately. By implementing strategies that prioritize employee well-being, organizations can create a healthier and more productive work culture. This article explores essential strategies for navigating mental health in the workplace.

1- Foster a Culture of Openness and Support:

A stigma around mental health can discourage employees from seeking help or discussing their struggles. To combat this, organizations should foster a culture of openness and support. This can be achieved by encouraging open communication, destigmatizing mental health issues, and providing access to resources and support networks. Managers and leaders should lead by example and show empathy towards employees’ challenges.

2- Promote Work-Life Balance:

Long working hours, excessive stress, and burnout can take a toll on employees’ mental health. Encourage work-life balance by implementing flexible work arrangements, promoting time off, and setting realistic workload expectations. Providing employees with the opportunity to recharge and engage in activities outside of work helps prevent burnout and boosts overall well-being.

3- Offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs):

Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) are confidential resources that provide counseling and support for employees facing personal or work-related challenges. These programs can offer services such as counseling, financial advice, and legal assistance. EAPs can significantly contribute to reducing stress and enhancing employees’ mental health.

4- Provide Mental Health Training:

Equip managers and supervisors with mental health training to recognize signs of distress in employees and provide appropriate support. Training can also include tips on fostering a positive work environment and promoting mental well-being among their teams. This ensures that employees feel understood and supported by their immediate supervisors.

5- Develop Wellness Initiatives:

Implementing wellness initiatives can have a positive impact on employees’ mental health. Consider organizing workshops on stress management, mindfulness, and relaxation techniques. Encourage physical activity through fitness challenges or offering gym memberships. When employees feel their employer cares about their well-being, they are more likely to feel satisfied and motivated at work.

6- Reduce Workplace Stressors:

Identify and address potential workplace stressors. This might involve streamlining processes, clarifying job roles, and ensuring that employees have the necessary resources to perform their tasks effectively. Regularly review workloads and provide assistance to those who might be struggling with their responsibilities.

7-Encourage Social Interaction:

Loneliness and isolation can contribute to poor mental health. Encourage social interaction and camaraderie among employees through team-building activities, lunchtime gatherings, or virtual events for remote teams. A supportive work community can provide a sense of belonging and enhance overall well-being.

8- Communicate Resources and Benefits:

Ensure that employees are aware of the mental health resources available to them, such as counseling services, helplines, or support groups. Communicate information about benefits packages that cover mental health treatment, including therapy and counseling sessions.

Navigating mental health in the workplace is essential for fostering a healthy, productive, and supportive work environment. By promoting a culture of openness, offering support programs, and prioritizing work-life balance, organizations can create an atmosphere where employees feel valued and cared for. Remember that investing in employees’ mental health not only benefits the individual but also leads to a more engaged, motivated, and successful workforce. Together, organizations and their employees can work towards building a mentally healthier workplace for the long term.

Dr. Jyoti Kapoor
Founder-Director and Senior Psychiatrist
Manasthali

The post Navigating Mental Health in the Workplace appeared first on Health Vision.

Studying abroad is an exciting and enriching experience that offers numerous opportunities for personal and academic growth. However, it can also present unique challenges to one’s mental health. Being away from familiar support systems, adjusting to a new culture, and academic pressures can contribute to stress, anxiety, and homesickness. To ensure a successful and fulfilling study abroad journey, it is essential to prioritize mental well-being.

Here, we will explore practical strategies and tips on how to deal with mental health issues while studying abroad:

1- Preparing for the Journey

A solid foundation is crucial for maintaining mental well-being while studying abroad. Start by conducting thorough research on the host country’s culture, lifestyle, and potential challenges you may face. This will help you to set a realistic expectations and make informed decisions. Additionally, consider the following:

1a- Build a support network: Establish connections with local students, international student organizations, and study abroad advisors. They can offer support, guidance, and a sense of belonging.

1b- Create and maintain communication: Stay in touch with family and friends back home. Regular communication can provide emotional support during challenging times and help combat homesickness.

1c- Learn coping skills: Familiarize yourself with stress management techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or journaling. These strategies can be invaluable during overwhelming moments.

2- Prioritizing Self-Care

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and self-care routine are essential for mental well-being. While studying abroad, prioritize the following aspects of self-care:

2a- Physical well-being: Engage in regular exercise, maintain a balanced diet, and get enough sleep. Physical activity not only boosts mood but also helps manage stress and anxiety.

2b- Time management: Establish a structured routine that allows for a healthy balance between academics, socializing, and personal time. Effective time management can reduce feelings of overwhelm and prevent burnout.

2c- Seek support when needed: Don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you find yourself struggling. Many universities have counseling services available to support international students. Utilize these resources to address any mental health concerns.

3- Embracing Cultural Adjustment

One of the most significant challenges while studying abroad is adapting to a new culture. The following strategies can help ease the transition and promote mental well-being:

3a- Open-mindedness: Approach the host country’s culture with an open mind and a willingness to learn. Embrace differences and celebrate the unique experiences this new environment offers.

3b- Establish routines and find familiar activities: Incorporate elements of your home culture into your daily routine. Engage in hobbies, sports, or join clubs that align with your interests. These activities can provide a sense of familiarity and comfort.

3c-  Foster social connections: Engage with local students and other international students. Participate in cultural events, join language exchange programs, or volunteer. Building relationships will help you feel more integrated and supported.

4- Building Resilience and Coping Strategies

Studying abroad may present unexpected challenges. Strengthening your resilience and developing effective coping strategies can help you navigate these hurdles:

4a- Embrace uncertainty: Accept that not everything will go as planned. Cultivating adaptability and resilience will help you overcome obstacles and manage stress.

4b- Seek professional help if needed: If you find yourself struggling with mental health issues, don’t hesitate to seek professional support. Universities often offer counselling services that can provide guidance and assistance.

4c- Practice self-compassion: Be kind to yourself and acknowledge that it is normal to experience ups and downs while studying abroad. Treat yourself with compassion, practice positive self-talk, and give yourself permission to make mistakes and learn from them.

Studying abroad offers unparalleled opportunities for personal growth, but it can also present unique mental health challenges. By preparing thoroughly, prioritizing self-care, embracing cultural adjustments, and building resilience, you can effectively navigate these challenges.

Dr. Jyoti Kapoor
Founder-Director and Senior Psychiatrist
Manasthali

The post How to deal with mental health issues while studying abroad appeared first on Health Vision.

Most of us at one point of the day worry or feel anxious about something or another thing. It might be about an exam, job interview, illness,  home chores, or anything else. It is quite normal to worry as it is a part of one’s life but worrying persistently and excessively about anything could take a toll on physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Chronic stress and worrying can be one of the major symptoms of Generalized Anxiety Disorder, a very common anxiety disorder that involves stress, tension, anxiety, worry, and negative thinking that can make one’s life very difficult and even affect concentration at home, job, school, exams or anything you do in your daily life.

 SYMPTOMS

 Excessive stress and anxiety can take a serious toll on physical, emotional, and mental health or wellness. A few common symptoms include –

1. Persistent Headache

2. Insomnia

3. Body ache

4. Irritation

5. Lack of concentration thus decreases productivity

6. Nausea

7. Palpitations

8. Fear

9. Trembling

10. High blood pressure

11. Unwanted thoughts

12. Increased negative thinking

13. Nervousness

14. Feeling tired or restless most of the time.

TIPS TO MANAGE ANXIETY

A few tips to feel calm and manage anxiety –

1.Deep breaths and Small Walk

One of the easiest ways to reduce anxiety immediately is to go for a walk either with your favorite person or your headphones with your favorite music on. Long-term exercise or walking release feel-good chemicals and reduce emotional outburst thus producing calming effects.

When anxious, your breathing pattern changes, it becomes rapid and irregular. Take some deep breaths to reduce anxiety thus decrease in blood pressure, and heart rate and ultimately calming the body and brain both.

2. Distracting Yourself

Distracting yourself or shifting your attention from an activity that is causing anxiousness is a must. Distraction would interrupt your negative thoughts and anxiousness both.

Indulge in an activity that could make you feel good such as cooking your favorite dish, binging on some favorite comedy show, talking to your favorite person, painting, or reading your favorite novel or book.

3. Intake of foods that help in reducing food

Various foods help in reducing anxiety naturally such as green leafy vegetables, Apples, Berries, and Legumes. These foods improve the quality of life with various health benefits and are even beneficial in lowering anxiety levels.

4. Hot Water Bath

Hot water or sauna bath reduces anxiety and relaxes the body. A hot water bath enhances mood, producing a calming effect. You could also pamper yourself with good tea/coffee/fresh juice as per your mood after that.

5. Spend time with nature

 Keeping yourself busy in some or another thing reduces anxiety to an extent. If you are free and feeling anxious due to running negative thoughts in your mind spend time with nature. Sitting in the garden, enjoying nature, or doing gardening lowers heart rate, anxiety attacks, and stress hormones.

6. Complimentary treatments like Meditation , Massage

Anxious every time? Try some meditation and good massage on daily basis. Meditating daily for at least 5 – 10 minutes helps in reducing anxiety and improving general and mental well-being.

According to Mayo Clinic reports, massaging for 60 minutes reduces stress hormones up to 30 percent after just one session.

7. A Good Night Sleep

 To beat anxiety, try to maintain a regular schedule of going to bed, even on weekends or holidays. Try to forgo napping after 3 p.m so that you could be able to sleep well and early at night.

8. Limit Screen Time

Phone, T.V, and laptops emit light that keeps your brain awake and interrupts sleep. Checking emails, scrolling applications, and binging Netflix most of the time till late at night trigger anxious thoughts and thus anxiety. Thus it is important to limit your screen time the entire day. Calm your brain by reading some good books or listening to soothing music before sleep to reduce anxiety.

Conclusion

On the final note, I would like to add that with these tips you are not able to manage or control your anxiety, Ask for expert advice or help from your doctor or counselor. Anxiety is treatable, so consider and trust yourself, your doctor, and the process.

Dr Jyotsana Anand Suri
Certified medical content writer
Email: jyotsana789@gmail.com

The post Anxiety disorder : How to reduce and manage? appeared first on Health Vision.

Teenagers are today spending excessive time on social media, which is adversely impacting their mental health. Today, our lives have become predominantly online due to covid and its aftereffects, be it work, school, or catching up with friends. As teenagers spend majority of their time on social media, it results in them becoming more introverted and they begin to face difficulties in making friends and talking to people. Teenagers are being guided by a virtual, fake world where there is immense competition, comparative issues, financial hardships, and fleeting, multiple relationships.

Sedentary lifestyle has given rise to various addictions:

Additionally, sedentary lifestyle has given rise to various addictions be it a gaming, social media, pornography, or gambling addiction. The National Alliance on Mental Illness cites that one in five teenagers, aged 13-18, will have a mental illness. 11% of the population would suffer from a mood disorder like depression, or bipolar disorder and 8% would be diagnosed with an anxiety disorder like GAD, panic disorder, OCD, or social anxiety disorder.

Children today are more concerned about their followers on social media rather than developing friendships in flesh and blood. This could negatively affect teenagers by distracting them, disrupting their sleep, and could expose them to bullying, rumour spreading, unrealistic views of other people’s lives and immense peer pressure. Behavioural changes like not spending enough time with friends and family, being aloof and low, spending more time on the phone and in the room, having a drastic change in academic results and seeing changes in mood and behaviour are concerning and should be looked into urgently.

Increase in mental health and psychological issues:

Mental health and psychological issues being witnessed in children today are depression, anxiety, loneliness, ADHD, eating disorders, behavioural issues, parent-child bonding issues, identity crisis, peer pressure, relationship issues be it parent-child or amongst friends, sexual concerns, and abuse/violence. Most of these can be attributed to the growing use of social media in the daily lives of children/adolescents today. Furthermore, it also could lead to an identity crisis as there is a major tussle between virtual relationships and real relationships today.

For Parents, educating younger kids on the risks of social media is of paramount importance. Their device time must be restricted to maintain a healthy balance and certain sites and webpages should be filtered through site blockers for age-appropriate viewing. Parents could also utilize cyberbullying resources, could stay up to date on their child’s privacy settings and should set ground rules for social media use. It is also crucial to understand that communication is not built overnight. It must be developed slowly and gradually over a period of time. Gentle communication should be practiced through effective ways like engaging one’s child in routine conversations, be it about news or worldly affairs, information about relatives and family life, personal tales, etc.

Social media leads to depression or anxiety:

Moreover, having at least one family meal a deal would greatly complement this practice. Furthermore, restricting activity or movement will do you no good, until and unless it is for younger children. Various studies from across the world clearly indicate a deep link between high levels of social media use and depression or anxiety symptoms. Multiple studies show that people who use social media excessively, do so because they are either bored, need an escape from their immediate physical environment, are feeling overwhelmed and stressed, are lonely, have few real-time friends or need to feel appreciated and validated.

The use of social media by teenagers may sometimes turn into seeking validation for personal moments leaving adolescents develop mental health issues. It can also force different behavioral outcomes from teenagers as they might feel that parents are less present in the moment with them. Therefore, engaging in social media too much takes a toll on teenagers’ mental health as they themselves start to look for appreciation and validation from strangers. Parents must actively work towards achieving a balance, which is the major concern!

Also Read: Effect of screen time on child’s speech and language development

Listen to your children and try to understand them:

When the balance is lost, that’s when things start going downhill. The best way to keep it in check is to create and maintain trust.  Trust is a two-way street and must be respected by both parties involved. One should understand early on that communication is key and forcing one’s child into anything will not yield any beneficial results. Listen to your children and try to understand them – the relationship with all its facets should be organic and natural, and this could easily be achieved by using methods of autonomy and responsibility for your children/adolescents.

As more children and teenagers are drawn towards cell phones and technology, it is in their best interest that parents take substantial interest in physical activities. Instead of just stopping children usage of technology, parents need to understand that they need to set examples by their own actions.

Also watch: Computer Vision Syndrome

Dr Rachna Khanna Singh

Consultant – Mental Health and Behavioural Science

Artemis Hospital Gurugram.

The post Teenagers spending excessive time on social media adversely impacting mental health appeared first on Health Vision.

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused major disruptions to daily life and children are feeling these changes deeply. While a return to school is welcomed by many students, some are facing anxiousness and fright. The transition from real time school to virtual and again real time hasn’t been very smooth for some. While many children have dealt well with restrictions and school closures caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, for others it was challenging to cope with all the changes and uncertainty.

Rise in anxiety and stress levels:

Post-pandemic, as children return to their physical classrooms in huge numbers, mental health specialist are seeing a disturbing rise in anxiety and stress levels. A lot of students are facing anxiety related to exams, facing teachers, answering questions, discipline and punctuality, peer interaction and other school-related issues. A lot of primary school children are facing panic attacks due to the fear of facing teachers and answering questions in the classroom. Apart from this a lot of children are finding it difficult to complete class work as they have lost touch of writing fast and hence find the time inadequate to copy from the board. Even completion of task has become challenging due to decreased dexterity.

The grief, anxiety, isolation and depression children have faced during the pandemic is also spilling over into classrooms and hallways, resulting in crying and disruptive behaviour in many younger kids and increased violence and bullying among adolescents. For many other children, who keep their grief and fear hidden, the burdens of school have become intense.

Watch our video: STRESS MANAGEMENT DURING COVID-19

Children are lacking in socio-emotional skills:

Children are lacking in socio-emotional skills like empathy, self-control, expressing feelings, decision making, social awareness, discipline along with basic skills like reading, comprehension, or solving simple math problems which is worrisome. Added to this are some social and interpersonal concerns. Children are becoming less social and lonesome. They are finding solace in gadgets and mobile phones instead of indulging in physical activities and playing games. Social interaction is making them irritated and causing social anxiety. They are taking time adjusting to a socially stimulating environment after a long haul of living in isolation within the four walls of their homes.

As children often take their emotional cues from the key adults in their lives – including parents and teachers – it is important that adults manage their own emotions well and remain calm, listen to children’s concerns, speak kindly and reassure them.

Children should be given enough time:

Teachers should ease the children into the curriculum. They should be given enough time and opportunities to calm the anxiety. Weekly class tests, orals on short topics, handwriting and dictation practise on regular basis should be strictly indoctrinated to help children face their fears. Teachers should be sympathetic towards children, avoid punishments and try warning the children until they get adjusted to schooling. Classroom can be made interesting through socialisation, role play, interactive sessions.

Parental help goes a long way in monitoring child behaviour and psychology. Parents should be vigilant about their children’s behavioural changes and extend the child a helping hand. Instead of lecturing the child, try to have a bi-directional conversation to understand the child’s point of view. Also bring to the notice of the teacher the anxiety issues the child is facing. Have exclusive family time to avoid child feeling lonely or helpless. It’s important to be calm and proactive in your conversations with children – check in with them to see how they are doing. Their emotions will change regularly and you need to show them that’s okay.

Also Read: Embracing Children -Golden rule of Parenting

Dr. Shradha Shejekar

Consultant – Psychiatry

The post Anxiety bouts as children return to school in Covid times appeared first on Health Vision.

 What is postpartum depression?

Postpartum depression, also known as postnatal depression, is a type of mood disorder that can affect women after they give birth. It is a relatively common condition, influencing between 10 and 15 percent of new mothers.

Pregnancy and childbirth can trigger chemical, social, and psychological changes in women that lead to postpartum depression. The phrase refers to a number of physical and emotional adjustments that many new mothers experience. Medication and counseling are both effective treatments for PPD.

Symptoms can include feeling sad or hopeless, mood swings, problems with sleep or appetite, feeling overwhelmed or anxious, and thoughts of harming oneself or the baby. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms after giving birth, it is important to seek help.

 Signs and Symptoms

Postpartum depression is difficult to detect. Following childbirth, many women experience these symptoms:

• Trouble sleeping
• Appetite changes
• Severe fatigue
• Lower libido
• Frequent mood changes

These symptoms, which can also be found in other types of major depression and aren’t typical following childbirth, include:

• Being uninterested in your baby or feeling like you’re not bonding with them
• Crying all the time, often for no reason
• Depressed mood
• Feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, and helplessness
• Thoughts of death or suicide
• Thoughts of hurting someone else
• Trouble concentrating or making decisions
• Severe anger and crankiness
• Loss of pleasure

Untreated postpartum depression can be fatal for new moms and their children. If a new mother experiences the following symptoms, she should see a doctor:

• Symptoms persist beyond 2 weeks
• They can’t function normally
• They can’t cope with everyday situations
• They have thoughts of harming themselves or their baby
• They’re feeling extremely anxious, scared, and panicked most of the day

 Causes of Postpartum Depression

Despite the fact that there is no one specific reason for postpartum depression, these physical and emotional concerns can trigger it:

1. Hormones – The decrease in estrogen and progesterone after delivery may be a factor. Other thyroid hormones produced by your gland may plummet significantly, making you feel tired, sluggish, and sad.

2. Lack of sleep- When you’re sleep-deprived and overwhelmed, even little issues may become challenging to solve.

3. Anxiety- You may be concerned about being able to care for a newborn.

Self-image. These symptoms might affect your self-esteem, make you question your identity, or cause you to believe that you’ve lost control over your life.

Any of these issues can contribute to postpartum depression.

Types of Postpartum Depression

The three words used to describe the emotional swings that mothers may experience after childbirth are:

• Following childbirth, up to 70% of females are afflicted by the “baby blues.” You might have extreme mood swings, such as feeling delighted one minute and sad the next. You may shed tears for no apparent reason and feel irritable, disagreeable, restless, anxious, lonely, or depressed.
• The baby blues can range from a few hours to 1 to 2 weeks in duration. Baby blues seldom need treatment from a health care provider. Joining a group of new moms or speaking with other parents can help.
• Postpartum depression (PPD) is a type of sadness that can begin any day or even weeks after childbirth. PPD can strike anybody, not just the firstborn child, following the birth of a child. You might feel sad and miserable, as though you were experiencing the baby blues, but you’ll notice that they’re much more intense.

Postpartum Depression can make it difficult for you to complete the tasks that you need to do on a daily basis. You should see a health care professional, such as your OB/GYN or regular doctor, if your capacity to function is hampered. This doctor will screen you for depressive symptoms and devise a treatment strategy based on those factors.

If you do not get treatment for PPD, your symptoms can get worse. While PPD is a serious condition, it may be treated with medicine and counseling. Postpartum psychosis is a severe mental illness that can strike new moms. This sickness may manifest itself rapidly, with most cases occurring within the first three months after delivery. Women might lose touch with reality and hear voices (hearing things that aren’t real, such as a person talking) as well as delusions (believing strongly in things that are irrational).

Hallucinations (seeing things that aren’t there) are less prevalent. Other signs include insomnia (not being able to sleep), restlessness, and strange emotions and actions. Women who have postpartum depression require immediate therapy and almost always need medicine. Women are sometimes hospitalized because they are a danger to themselves or others.

How to prevent Postpartum Depression

If you have a history of depression, tell your doctor as soon as you find out you’re pregnant, or if you’re planning to become pregnant.

1. During pregnancy– Your doctor can keep an eye on you for symptoms. Support groups, counseling, and other therapies may all help with minor depression symptoms. Medications, even during pregnancy, may be used by your doctor.

2. After your baby is born- To look for symptoms of depression, your doctor may recommend an early postpartum check-up. The sooner you’re diagnosed, the sooner you can start treatment. If you have a history of postpartum depression, your doctor might prescribe therapy as soon as the baby is born.

 Treatment for Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression is classified differently, depending on the nature of the symptoms and how severe they are. Antianxiety or antidepressant medicines, psychotherapy, and participation in a group for emotional support and education are all possible therapies.

In the case of postpartum psychosis, antipsychotics are frequently used to treat it. In many circumstances, hospitalization is required.

Don’t assume that you can’t take antidepressants, anxiety, or even psychotropic medications if you’re breastfeeding. Consult with your health care provider. Many women take medication while breastfeeding under the supervision of their doctors. This is a decision to be made between you and your doctor.

If you’re looking for expert and affordable medical care, visit Altius Hospitals or call +91 8882799799

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