On World Mental Health Day, we take a rare look into the psychiatrist’s office, where the primary tools are not just medical instruments but the psychiatrist’s own qualities of honesty, openness, sincerity, reliability, and empathy. These are essential for uncovering deep-seated inner turmoil and peculiarities. Today, ten patients are seen, each with their unique struggles and stories.
The first patient is a despondent police officer who has lost his zest for life, burdened by shame and fear of judgment. Initially reserved, he gradually opens up, showing a willingness to work towards recovery. The second is a lawyer with severe mood swings, who after a tumultuous year of manic episodes and deep depression, is now stabilized on lithium.
The third patient, a civil servant, uses laughter and alcohol as shields against painful emotions. Through therapy, she begins to connect with her true feelings, evolving into a more balanced individual. A medical student, the fourth patient, battles mood swings, compulsive behaviors, and self-harm, making progress with medication and therapy aimed at emotional regulation.
The fifth patient, an entrepreneur, struggles with the belief that he is always right, leading to conflicts. Therapy helps him gain self-awareness and find peace. The sixth patient, a woman with a history of neglect, abuse, and domestic violence, has built a stable therapeutic relationship but faces financial barriers to continuing her treatment.
The seventh patient, a man with a history of rejection, panics and acts out when faced with rejection, finding solace in his sharp mind rather than medication. The eighth patient, a long-term attendee, reveals a shocking secret after years of therapy, highlighting the complexities of mental health.
The ninth patient, a man with episodes of grandiosity and aggression, remains manageable with medication. The final patient, a student, finds relief in the diagnosis of ADHD, which helps him manage his symptoms and improve his academic performance.
Mental health issues often arise from a combination of vulnerability and stress, influenced by biological and environmental factors. Therapy involves listening, correcting unrealistic thoughts, and sometimes, medication. However, broader societal issues like poverty and housing require governmental intervention. President Simons emphasized the importance of mental health in her annual address, raising questions about the allocation of GDP towards mental health services.
