In the city of Bengaluru, the demand for mental health support is reaching an all-time high. Dr Asfiya Khaleel, director and a consultant psychiatrist at UMMEED Deaddiction and Rehab Centre, with over a decade of experience, observes that mental health cases are rising rapidly, driven by modern stress and addiction. However, as the numbers climb, so do the hurdles, from the persistent stigma surrounding medication to systemic failures in the education and healthcare sectors.
One of the primary challenges psychiatrists face is not just diagnosing the illness, but convincing patients to follow the treatment. Dr Asfiya notes that taking psychiatric medication is still widely considered a taboo. Even when patients are willing 1to seek help, family members often interfere by encouraging them to reduce doses or stop medication prematurely. To combat this, Dr Asfiya emphasizes psychoeducation. By explaining that side effects are often temporary and the long-term benefits to a patient’s life are significant, doctors can increase treatment compliance. “Mental health disorders are treatable.”
While social media has made “depression” and “anxiety” common buzzwords, clinical diagnosis requires strict adherence to guidelines. For a condition to be labelled as clinical depression, symptoms must persist for at least two weeks and significantly impair daily functioning, physical health, or relationships. Interestingly, mental health issues are deeply personalized. What triggers depression in one person may not affect another, as it often depends on what an individual values most, be it their career, family, or personal relationships. Dr. Asfiya also highlights distinct gender differences in symptoms: women often internalize their struggles, presenting with headaches or body aches, while men are more likely to externalize their distress through anger and irritability.
Physical symptoms often mask mental health crises, leading to confusion. Many patients experience panic attacks characterized by chest discomfort, and a fear of believing they are having a heart attack. In the realm of addiction, the situation is increasingly volatile. Dr Asfiya notes that the use of psychotropic agents is leading to rising cases of psychosis among younger people, manifesting as disorganized behaviour and violence. These cases often require emergency intervention and admission to specialized centres.
While schools are starting to recognize mental health, many rely on general counsellors who are unequipped to handle serious clinical issues. Dr Asfiya advocates for the appointment of clinical psychologists to screen students and provide proper care. The rise of ADHD in children is linked to increased screen time and the “fast-moving” nature of social media reels, which makes traditional academic focus difficult for developing minds
In India, the lack of affordable government-run centres has led to the rise of illegal de-addiction centres. Despite these challenges, there is a glimmer of hope. The younger generation is becoming more proactive, often “putting their foot down” to demand help from their parents. For Dr Asfiya, the message remains clear: mental health is a priority that requires personalized care, ethical treatment centres, and a commitment to staying the course of medication.
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