About The Doctor

Dr. Manu Tiwari is a Senior Consultant psychiatrist. He completed his MBBS training from Maharashtra and his post-graduation in psychiatry from the University of Mumbai. He frequently conducts CMEs on psychiatry topics and carries out patient awareness programs within the community.

Specialization

  • Mental Health And Behavioural Sciences

Frequently Asked Questions About Mental Health

What are mental health problems?

Mental health problems include a wide range of experiences: some problems may be quite mild or moderate, while others may take on a more severe form, affecting a person’s ability to cope with day-to-day living. You may have heard about some of the more common problems, such as depression, anxiety, self-harm, eating disorders, schizophrenia, psychosis, stress and bipolar disorder. According to some estimates, 1 person in 4 may have some form of mental health problem in their lifetime. For as many as 1 person in 50, this problem will be serious enough to affect their ability to work or to form and maintain personal relationships. Although figures and definitions vary, what is clear is that millions of people in India will encounter problems themselves, or know someone else who does.

What are the Signs and Symptoms to be considered about?

  • Recent social withdrawal and loss of interest in others. An unusual drop in functioning, especially at school or work, such as quitting sports, failing in school, or difficulty performing familiar tasks.
  • Problems with concentration, memory, or logical thought and speech that are hard to explain.
  • Heightened   sensitivity to sights, sounds, smells or touch; avoidance of over-stimulating situations.
  • Loss of initiative or desire to participate in any activity; apathy.
  • A vague feeling of being disconnected from oneself or one’s surroundings; a sense of unreality.
  • Unusual or exaggerated beliefs about personal powers to understand meanings or influence events; illogical or “magical” thinking typical of childhood in an adult.
  • Fear or suspiciousness of others or a strong nervous feeling.
  • Uncharacteristic, peculiar behavior.
  • Dramatic sleep and appetite changes or deterioration in personal hygiene.
  • Rapid or dramatic shifts in feelings or “mood swings.”

One or two of these symptoms can’t predict a mental illness. But a person experiencing several together that are causing serious problems in his or her ability to study, work, or relate to others should be seen by a mental health professional. All of these signs can vary in severity. Often they can be relatively minor, or pass quickly. However, if they are particularly severe or distressing, or continue for more than a short while, you may want to seek support.

What causes psychiatric disorders?

There is no simple answer to this question as there are lots of reasons why someone might develop a mental illness. They might inherit it from their family, it might be because of their lifestyle or it might be because of things that have happened to them in the past. Usually it is a combination of all of these. There is some evidence that mental illness is caused by a combination of biological factors that create vulnerability. Genetics play a part, but people can develop a mental illness with no family history at all. We know that chemical changes occur that affect functioning of the brain (both dopamine and serotonin are involved). People who are vulnerable to mental illness may experience symptoms in response to stress, social change or drugs.  

Who is susceptible to psychiatric disorders?

People with family history of psychiatric disorders, long standing prolonged stress, chronic illness, regular use of alcohol and substance use and abuse.When do I know my problems are severe enough to see someone ?If I see a psychologist or psychiatrist, does that mean I’m crazy ?How will I know if someone is developing a mental illness ?Is recovery possible ?

Is recovery possible?

Yes. Advancements in medication are continually improving the outlook for people with a mental illness. Along with psychological and social supports, a majority can live active and fulfilled lives.

What are the benefits of taking treatment through MMT instead of directly from the doctor?

We provide services from top doctors across top hospitals to ensure that you get the best treatment.