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Do you think your spouse is depressed and want to know how to help

Posted in daily writings and musings of the psychologist, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on June 20, 2026| Leave a Comment »

maxresdefaultWhen Deepti (name changed) had called on us the other day , she had wanted an appointment for her husband , who she thought had been suffering from depression for quite long time . I had advised her that she should accompany her husband to the counseling session. After a few sessions with both of them together and separately with each partner ,it emerged that both of them suffered from depression.Yet they have been in a denial mode.I have seen in many cases that partners refuse to believe that what they are suspecting others suffer from could also be happening to them .They would always believe that just because the other person is complaining he or she could be depressed.Deepti had faced similar situation when she had come to me.Explained Deepti,”my husband Sameer {name changed}blames me for the problems in our marriage.He says that we have all the problems in our relationship because I am depressed.He tells everyone in my family and his family that if my wife was not undergoing depression,there would not be any issues in our marriage.But on the contrary I believe it’s always my husband who suffers from depression.He always complains about everything and blames me unnecessarily when things do not workout as per his plans”.

Family therapist during meeting with unhappy, married coupleIt is normal to have little bit difference of opinion in marital life but should each time difference arisen become the cause of a major fight then the husband wife team need to look at their status of their perceptual faculty. It is common to become little dejected after marital argument but to think of the other person being depressed definitely should be a cause of concern for the partners.It is very likely that both partners are perceiving some issues,concerns and a few problems in marriage negatively that has been giving depression to each other.Depression is made out to be a neurotic  disorder  hence people are always afraid of agreeing that they are undergoing such state of emotional upheaval.The usual response to such situation being.”I am o.k. it is the other person who seems to be suffering from depression”.

argu cplSomewhat similar is the story of Seema and Jatin (names changed) both budding doctors still in their process of setting up their household. The problem arose when a fine day Seema threatened to commit suicide on a very small whimsical issue. She had convinced herself that her husband does not pay her as much attention as he is giving to his other female colleagues in the hospital where he works . This came as a very major shock to Jatin. Jatin had nowhere ever thought about his coworkers in this manner. No amount of explanation could convince his wife and she continued to fight with him from time to time on the same subject forcing her husband to lead a solitary life away from the friends and acquaintances.What began as a depression with one of the spouses had pulled the other partner too into the same state of mind ,giving him depression. Jatin explains his situation in the following words,” My wife Seema has been idealising suicide from her college days. Our relationship dates back to seven years now. We had begun  dating in the first year of our college. In the college too she was always throwing tantrums on me.It is quite surprising that she acts in this manner only when I am around and with me only.She would often break up with me on small pretexts and remain incommunicado for days together. She  will come out of her shell on her own. She would then hardly remember that she has not been in touch with me for so many days. Everything becomes very normal for her soon , but it leaves me completely drained out emotionally.I can never discuss about such a behaviour of my wife to any one in the family or friends as she behaves normal in front of others.I do understand that she does it to gain my attention . For me she is my wife .I do give her the required love and affection. My whole life revolves around her . But I fail to understand why would she want me to be exclusively with her  only all the times. This kind of obsessive  behaviour from my wife has started telling on my professional responsibility. I can not be a doctor in such a big hospital where I am working by living in isolation and yet I do not know how to solve the problem.You being a psychologist could possibly understand the situation better and help us”.

A few sessions with the couple revealed that they both in spite of their long dating history had failed to emotionally connect with each other so far. Seema had wanted to make the emotional connection but had not understood how to proceed with it. She had always wanted to make Jatin part of her inner life. Each time she tried she sounded more pathetic and distressed and felt completely remorseful  when she did not get the desired attention and response from Jatin.

arguing coupleJatin understood her well but he too could not connect with Seema.He did not know how to make her feel loved and understood.She just wanted him to love her and care about her. But her such behaviour had put  off Jatin, leaving him cold and at times uninterested in her .Both the partners had been frustrated and didn’t know how to handle such a situation.

It has been observed by us that one partner in a marriage is depressed , the cause would always  be a marital situation  between the two spouses.  The solution to such a situation has to be found within the marriage situation only.There can be no solution by putting the onus to only one of the  members to the marriage, as the reason is not individual but a common factor is responsible for  whatever is happening to the spouses.

psychologist-helping-couple-relationship-difficulties-office-49310915In the event of either of you suffering from depression , both of you should help each other explore how your relationship dynamic could be  causing such a depression. Though you may want the other person to get individual treatment to his or her complaints by way of the intervention of a psychologist, it is in truth be your total marital situation that needs to be looked in a different perspective as different from your own point of view.  In such a situation you would do well to get your self assessed by our   professional family therapist and counselor. We will together then  work out a plan  that works to revive your marital relationship .Always remember that  you both are equal partners to the happiness and bliss of your marriage and hence let us find the way to the resolution of the differences in marriage too together with each partner respecting and trusting the other equally.

-Ramneek Kapoor – Family Therapist, Psychologist Counselor and Science of Living Expert.

family therapyFamily will survive all storms with a little patience and perseverance

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Getting Control of your OCD in 4 Comprehensive (medication-free) Steps

Posted in daily writings and musings of the psychologist, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , on June 18, 2026| 2 Comments »

First, let’s hear from those who have bravely faced their obsessions and compulsions and, with the help of our four-step strategic therapy, have managed to reclaim control of their lives. Doesn’t it sound surprising that individuals who suffered from OCD for years, despite being on long-term medication, have finally found relief? It may seem unbelievable to many who have struggled with OCD for years. However, this is often due to a lack of proper guidance and corrective approaches.

Let’s listen to the inspiring stories of individuals who have successfully taken control of their OCD and are now leading normal lives:

Aarti’s Journey
Aarti, 22 (name changed), doesn’t even remember when she first developed the habit of compulsively washing every piece of clothing she wore outside. Each time she returned home, whether from college or the market, she would immediately head to the washroom, change her clothes, and wash them. Initially, her parents saw this as an attempt to maintain cleanliness. However, their concern grew when they noticed her repeating this behavior throughout the day, from morning until evening.

By the time Aarti came to us, she had been on strong psychiatric medications for over six years. Despite relying on anti-anxiety and SSRI pills, her OCD persisted. It wasn’t until she began our treatment program that she experienced significant relief.

Ahmad’s Story
Ahmad, a businessman in Dubai, had achieved considerable success in his career. However, he couldn’t fully enjoy his accomplishments due to intrusive, obsessive thoughts. “An unknown anxiety grips my mind over trivial matters,” Ahmad explains. This overwhelming anxiety would only subside after he performed certain repetitive acts, which frightened his family.

Prakash’s Experience
Prakash, an architect, had built a flourishing career and enjoyed a high social status. Yet, he struggled with obsessive thoughts that began in high school. Although medications temporarily alleviated his symptoms, the obsessive thoughts returned with greater intensity whenever he stopped the medications for more than a week.

Understanding OCD

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental and behavioral health condition characterized by unwanted, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions). These compulsions are performed to reduce the distress caused by obsessions, perpetuating a vicious cycle.

The cycle of OCD typically includes:

  1. Obsession: Unwanted, intrusive thoughts or impulses.
  2. Mental distress: Anxiety or fear triggered by these thoughts.
  3. Compulsion: Repetitive actions performed to alleviate the distress.
  4. Temporary relief: A short-lived sense of relief before the cycle restarts.

Common Symptoms of OCD

Obsessions

Obsessions are repetitive, intrusive thoughts that are often illogical but feel uncontrollable. These may include:

  • Concerns about safety or cleanliness.
  • Worries about relationships or social interactions.
  • Irrational fears about natural or unnatural phenomena.

Compulsions

Compulsions are repetitive behaviors or rituals performed to relieve the distress caused by obsessions. Common compulsions include:

  • Excessive cleaning or handwashing.
  • Repeatedly checking locks, appliances, or emails.
  • Counting or arranging objects.
  • Hoarding or obsessive texting.

Our Treatment Approach

We have developed an effective program to help clients overcome OCD and regain control of their lives:

  1. Trans-Cranial Cerebral Spinal Stimulation
    Using self-projected inner sound therapy (Mahapran Dhwani), this technique targets affected brain areas. Patients undergo daily or alternate-day sessions of 45 minutes for 8–12 weeks, resulting in significant OCD remission.
  2. Gut and Mind Correction Therapy
    By focusing on the gut-brain axis and ventral vagus nerve stimulation, we address the emotional and mental imbalances that trigger obsessive thoughts.
  3. Kayotsarga and Chakra Meditation
    Kayotsarga exercises and chakra-focused meditation (Swas Preksha) help patients achieve emotional balance and self-regulation.
  4. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Affirmations
    Guided CBT sessions and positive affirmations empower patients to replace compulsive behaviors with healthier coping strategies.

Transforming Lives

Through a combination of advanced therapies, holistic practices, and expert guidance, our patients have achieved remarkable results. Many, including Aarti, Ahmad, and Prakash, are now living peaceful, medication-free lives, enjoying a sense of freedom they thought was unattainable.

Please let us know if we can help you with your OCD .

Write to us

mansikPramarsh@gmail.com

http://www.mansikpramarsh.com

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Healing Dysfunctional Family Relationships

Posted in The psychology counselling services available, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on June 8, 2026| Leave a Comment »

Families are often envisioned as the cornerstone of love, support, and growth. However, the reality is far more nuanced, with many families grappling with the complexities of dysfunction, unresolved conflicts, and intergenerational trauma. In this blog post, we will deep-dive into the profound impacts of dysfunctional family dynamics, exploring real-life examples and therapeutic insights to understand the journey towards healing and restoring familial harmony.

Healing Dysfunctional Family Relationships

The Ripple Effects of Dysfunction:

Meet Kritika and Vijay (names changed), whose experiences epitomize the enduring repercussions of dysfunctional family environments. Their stories resonate deeply with countless individuals who have experienced familial dysfunction. Kritika and Vijay, having weathered tumultuous family dynamics in their formative years, continue to grapple with the emotional scars, even a decade into their marriage. Their unresolved traumas have cast a long shadow over their parenting journey, as their children inherit the legacy of unresolved conflict and emotional turmoil.

Dr. Kritika, a pseudonym for a real individual, provides a poignant example of the intergenerational transmission of dysfunction. Raised amidst the daily tumult of her parents’ disputes, she and her siblings bore witness to a triangular drama that played out with agonizing regularity. Lines were drawn, allegiances shifted, and familial bonds strained under the weight of unresolved grievances. 

The ripple effects of dysfunctional family dynamics extend far beyond the immediate participants, permeating the lives of subsequent generations. Individuals like Sejal, Sonia, Kamolika, Anand, and Sumit, though fictional in name, embody the collective struggles of those who have endured traumatic family events. From PTSD and anxiety to deep-seated mistrust and unresolved phobias, the psychological toll of dysfunctional family dynamics reverberates through every facet of their lives. Moreover, their own children and spouses find themselves unwitting participants in a cycle of dysfunction, perpetuating the cycle unless intervention occurs.

Understanding Triangulation:

Central to our understanding of dysfunctional family dynamics is the concept of triangulation. What begins as innocuous interactions can quickly devolve into accusations, misunderstandings, and unresolved emotions, with family members unwittingly assuming roles as perpetrators, victims, or mediators. Left unchecked, these patterns of dysfunction can become entrenched, eroding familial bonds and hindering individual growth.

Yet, amidst the turmoil, there is hope. Through innovative therapeutic approaches, families can take on healing and reconciliation, managing past trauma to embrace a future defined by mutual understanding and support.

The Path to Healing:

At our organization, we offer a framework for addressing the underlying issues that contribute to familial dysfunction, empowering you to break free from the shackles of intergenerational trauma. Central to this process is the cultivation of empathy and understanding, both within the family unit and in the broader community.

By creating a safe space for open dialogue and honest communication, we begin the healing process, allowing individuals to confront their past traumas and head towards a brighter future. Through individual and group therapy sessions, families learn to navigate conflict constructively.

For individuals like Kritika and Vijay, the journey towards healing is challenging, but ultimately important. By confronting their past traumas and embracing a future defined by mutual respect and understanding, they lay the foundation for a closer bond.

Conclusion:

Through therapeutic support, families heal and reconcile, overcoming past trauma for mutual understanding. Together, we can break the cycle of dysfunction.

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Rejection therapy: How to Overcome Rejection and Rebuild Confidence and Trust in Self

Posted in daily writings and musings of the psychologist, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on March 18, 2026| Leave a Comment »

Neena felt desolate and lonely, and she suffered a sense of disorientation as she had been denied the job she was so confident of getting.

Rueben had completely given up after he had been passed over for a promotion, with his employer company preferring another candidate much junior to him in experience.

Tamanna felt numb and low after her boyfriend Nahar dropped her and opted for another relationship.

All these people have been denied and rejected from doing whatever they had expected or wanted to do. Some of them had worked for and invested years in reaching where they wanted to be in their careers or relationships.

Photo by http://www.kaboompics.com on Pexels.com

Many such rejections have been witnessed in recent times, where people had to leave their homes and friends abroad after being denied extensions of visas, or students had to shelve their study plans for similar reasons.

Getting rejected breaks morale. It hurts to the core too. Whether it’s being rejected by a suitor, denial of a much-awaited promotion, or a rejected job interview, rejection is not always taken in an acceptable manner. Even though people are sometimes apprehensive of hearing a “no,” they do not want to hear it for fear of not being approved.

For some people, the fear of hearing “no” becomes so strong that it stops them from taking risks or asking for what they want. Rejection sensitivity can deeply affect daily life, leading to anger, irritation, financial stress, social stress, and often much more than what is stated above.

With so many layoffs, upheavals, and shelving of long-term plans, the hopes and confidence of many are getting derailed.

Let’s understand how we can deal with rejections and the shattering of dreams and expectations, and make rejections less hurtful and more introspective in an accepting way to help rebuild mental and emotional strength and move forward. It sounds easy, but it is not. That’s where the process of “rejection therapy” plays a very positive role in rebuilding and re-emerging as a better person.

What is rejection therapy, and how does it help?

We would rather call it a reconfirming self-technique, where we undertake self-acceptance, self-expression, and a self-improvement process that we can practice on our own when needed.

In this therapy, instead of avoiding situations where we might be told “no,” we actively anticipate them without causing apprehension and anxiety.

The dynamic social environment carries a lot of grapevine, and if we pay attention to these rumours, we can expect to be either accepted, ignored, or rejected. The anticipated discomfort begins much in advance, and we can build resilience to it in smaller steps.

You start with tiny social challenges where you expect to be rejected, and then gradually build your tolerance to discomfort.

The goal isn’t to reject rejection. The exercise helps build confidence, reduce social anxiety, and not permit fear to control your life. When we realise that rejection does not mean as much as we thought—and that many people are kinder than we imagine—it becomes easier to take risks that matter.

But that doesn’t mean you should expect only negative results. Being hopeful and positive has its rewards, and that realisation brings happiness and acceptance.

Wherever you fear and anticipate rejection, acceptance can bring wonderful surprises and self-acceptance.

Gradually, the human brain learns that rejection can be worked through by looking for substitute rewards, and that rejection is not as damaging as expected.

Small steps in dealing with anticipated refusals make you more accepting and comforted. You move on in life and develop maturity and patience to bear the brunt of major challenges.

Each rejection handled with calmness and maturity builds mental and emotional strength and equips the brain with a better understanding of the subject, developing resilience and adjustment.

Rejection then becomes less painful and traumatic as you learn to manage such situations deliberately.

Rejection becomes less self-effacing and more about learning and adjustment. Your brain rewires itself to see social situations as opportunities for growth rather than threats to avoid.

If the thought of anticipated rejection or refusal causes severe anxiety, panic, or intense negative emotions, you should seek professional support from a therapist rather than trying to handle it alone. We at Alka Mansik Pramarsh Foundation can help you manage such anxiety, fear, or panic and help you move forward.

Rejection does not define your life in totality. It can be an opportunity to build a stronger future and prepare yourself to overcome the fear of rejection.

When you stop letting the possibility of hearing “no” determine your worth and start adding value to your decisions for the future, you open yourself to opportunities, connections, and experiences you might have overlooked.

You can contact us at Alka Mansik Pramarsh Foundation if you feel you need professional counselling in the following situations:

  • When your anxiety, fear, or stress worsens and causes distress
  • When you are unable to move past feelings of rejection and constantly feel sad or hopeless
  • When you experience panic
  • When you develop physical symptoms or traumatic stress linked to negative thoughts
  • When you find yourself becoming avoidant, overly self-critical, or nihilistic
  • When you feel overwhelmed or have thoughts of self-harm
  • When you are unable to carry out your day-to-day functioning

Please call or reach out to us at @mansikpramarsh. We would be glad to help you.

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Perceptive Meditation & CBT: A Medicine-Free Path to Overcoming Depression, Anxiety, and Stress

Posted in daily writings and musings of the psychologist, tagged , , , , , on February 20, 2026| Leave a Comment »

In a world where stress, anxiety, and depression often feel like unavoidable parts of life, many are looking for a way to heal that doesn’t rely solely on a prescription bottle.

The “Science of Living” offers a powerful, drug-free alternative by combining two proven methods: Perceptive Meditation and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). While CBT gives you the mental tools to handle life’s challenges, Perceptive Meditation works directly on your body’s internal chemistry, helping to balance your hormones and nervous system from the inside out.

Together, these therapies bridge the gap between the mind and the body, offering a holistic path to lasting peace and emotional resilience.

The Body-Mind Connection

Modern science is beginning to validate what traditional practices have long held: the “psychic centers” of the body—biologically known as the endocrine glands—are the bridges between our physical and mental states. This field, known as psychoneuroendocrinology, studies how our thoughts affect our hormones, emotions, and intellectual functioning.

Recent evidence highlights the power of focusing on these centers:

  • Hormonal Reset: A 2025 study in Nature confirmed that specific breathing and focus techniques (like those in Perceptive/Preksha meditation) increase oxytocin and endorphins while significantly lowering cortisol.
  • Neuroplasticity: 2026 research shows that short-term meditation can “shrink” the amygdala (the brain’s fear center) and “thicken” the prefrontal cortex (the center for logic and control).
  • Genetic Impact: Trials indicate that 8 weeks of consistent practice can positively alter gene expression related to immunity and metabolism.

2. Defining the Two Pillars

What is Perceptive Meditation?

Perceptive Meditation is a technique focused on the psychic centers (endocrine glands) to transform emotions, attitudes, and behaviors. By meditating on these centers with complete absorption, practitioners can “rectify” chemical secretions—shifting them from negative (stress-inducing) to positive (wellness-inducing).

It works on three levels:

  1. Physical: Rejuvenates the immune system and improves circulation.
  2. Emotional: Harmonizes the nervous system to eradicate depression, anxiety, and psychosomatic disorders without medication.
  3. Psychological: Cleanses the mind of suicidal ideation, low self-esteem, and chronic negativity.

What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)?

Cognition refers to the conscious mental processes of thinking and reasoning. CBT is a goal-oriented “talk therapy” designed to help individuals rectify distorted thinking patterns that occur during emotional distress.

When we experience trauma or upheaval, our minds often lose touch with healthy cognition, leading to a “negative filter” through which we view all events, people, and ourselves. CBT provides the tools to challenge these thoughts and return to a balanced perspective.

3. How the “Joint Therapy” Works

By combining these two methods, we create a two-pronged approach to healing:

FeaturePerceptive Meditation (The Body)CBT (The Mind)
FocusInternal “Psychic Centers”External Triggers & Beliefs
MechanismFlushes negative chemicals; calms the nervous system.Identifies sources of distress (e.g., bullying, trauma).
GoalPhysical re-tuning of the stress response.Cognitive tools to handle future triggers.

4. Real-World Applications

Clinical trials from 2024–2026 show that this integrated approach produces spectacular results for:

  • Severe Conditions: PTSD, Chronic Pain, and Clinical Anxiety.
  • Behavioral Disorders: OCD, ADHD, and Eating Disorders (Anorexia/Bulimia).
  • General Well-being: Improving resilience in students and retirees, and preventing depression relapses.

5. What to Expect in a Session

This joint therapy is a collaborative, non-medicinal process. A standard program involves:

  • Frequency: 50-minute sessions, 3 times per week.
  • Practice: Combining deep meditation on endocrine points with written and spoken cognitive exercises.
  • Outcome: A long-lasting empowerment that develops new cognitive abilities and a positive self-perception without causing additional mental trauma.

By Ramneek Kapoor – Family Therapist, Psychologist, and Science of Living Expert

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Understanding the Additional Advantages of Mindful Perceptive Meditation(Preksha Dhyan)

Posted in daily writings and musings of the psychologist, The psychology counselling services available, tagged , , , , on February 2, 2026| Leave a Comment »

Would you believe it that the best armies in the world today are making use of Mindful Perceptive Meditation (Preksha Dhyan) in different forms to train their personnel? On self-discipline, stress management, develop focus and resilience, and improve performance in all areas of their professional life, and lead a holistic, meaningful personal life too.

What does Mindful Perceptive Meditation (Preksha Dhyan) do, and how does it become beneficial in our professional, student, and personal life?

The therapeutic technique of Preksha Dhyan or Mindful Perceptive Meditation includes five ‘A’ exercises: Attention, Acceptance, Appreciation, Adjustment, Adoption, or Adaptation. These extensive exercises, emphasizing the mental perception build-up of a solid personal and professional self, are undertaken during the therapy on a regular basis.

How does it help me better my professional self?

Stress Reduction: Stress happens to all. There is always stress of performing better than everyone, more so if you are under evaluation, be it a study examination, competitive performance, doing better in business relationships, or even regular work and jobs. Such stress often saps your confidence and energy, bringing about a feeling of not being up to it.

Preksha Dhyan sessions help in all situations of professional and personal life. A few sessions of Preksha Dhyan (Mindful Perceptive Meditation) enable professionals, students, trainees, and others to regulate their autonomic nervous system to “turn off” the stress response, and re-energize them with a fresh sense of taking on tasks with new vigor and a positive mindset. Preksha Dhyan or Mindful Perceptive Meditation training thus becomes a key element of inoculation training against any kind of stress and brings instant relief, and when done on a regular basis, it keeps stress away.

Enhanced Performance: Preksha Dhyan or perceptive meditation therapy aims to improve focus, analytical understanding, memory, ability to recall, decision-making, overall cognitive performance under pressure, and make delivering better performance each time a regular habit, improving effectiveness in all areas of life of students, professionals, executives, sportsperson, and industrial workers.

Integration: It brings about harmony with the self and the external world, improving understanding of the self and of the environment around. A better interaction of both takes place each time a challenge occurs in life. Incorporated into daily, easy-to-do cerebral exercises of a few minutes, it goes a long way in keeping the mind and body at peace with each other, reducing anxiety to a minimal level, developing general resilience, body awareness, and awareness of the environment. Conflicts in life are thus handled by the person in a very cool, calm, positive, and unperturbed manner.

Key Programs & Concepts:

Mindfulness-Based Mind Fitness Training (MBFMT): Instead of working only on stress, the program aims to focus on training the mind to stay fit in all kinds of situations and stay alert, with inbuilt positive responses to environmental and atmospheric changes.

Resilience Training: Preksha Dhyan or Mindful Perceptive Meditation aims to build stronger mental strength and a truthful, transparent character with inherent qualities of honesty and morality in modern times.

Evolution of a holistic personality that is always learning, adopting, and adapting thus becomes the main force of any individual undertaking training in Preksha Dhyan (Mindful Perceptive Meditation) at Alka Mansik Pramarsh Foundation.

You can call or email us:

0731-4263087

mansikpramarsh@gmail.com

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High-functioning depression: Symptoms, causes, and treatments

Posted in daily writings and musings of the psychologist, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on November 11, 2025| Leave a Comment »

What is high-functioning depression?

Sudhir (name changed ) has been managing his large company for years together and didn’t believe it could happen to him when he was told by this psychologist ,” you have been suffering from high functioning depression”. “ But how is this possible ,I have been managing all my affairs well and attending to all my routine .However the family could notice him being bored quite quickly and Sudhir has of late been getting tired often ,showing signs of irritation and impatience .

Often it is believed that a high functioning individual can never be depressed or even tired because he seems to always be active ,agile and his metabolism could be working at its best .But that may not be the case always .

High-functioning people always seem to be on the drive manning not only their work but also of others work too. High functioning depression is a term used to describe people who experience symptoms of depression  while largely maintaining their daily responsibilities and outward appearance. Such high functioning individuals often are able to maintain high flying careers, professional relationships, and social lives, making it difficult even for themselves to recognize their own depressed state of mind .It could generally be taken as tiredness and distraction and they shrug it away ,when told that they could have a depression.

Is high -functioning depression a mental illness or an emotional disorder ?

The term high-functioning depression has not been officially recognised anywhere till now neither in ICD 10 or even in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). It is thus obviously not diagnosed by your psychiatrist or a psychologist.

It’s possible for a person to meet the diagnostic criteria for major depressive disorder (MDD) or persistent depressive disorder (PDD) while hiding many of the signs and symptoms by their being busy active and over the situation.When this is the case, they may be informally described as having high-functioning depression.

Persistent Depressive disorder is a recognised mental health condition characterized by long-term, chronic bouts of depression.

High-functioning depression and PDD share similarities, but they’re not the same. The term “high-functioning depression” describes someone who mostly keeps up appearances ,despite depressive symptoms.

If you think you or a loved one may be experiencing any form of depression and feel that because of your high functioning you are not able to decide what it is , it’s important to seek professional help. A professional psychologist or a psychiatrist can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Symptoms of high functioning depression

Because it’s not an official diagnosis, high-functioning depression doesn’t have distinct symptoms. Warning signs of high-functioning depression, and of depressive disorders generally, can include:

  • Persistent feelings of aloofness ,sadness  or emptiness
  • Difficulty concentrating or making decisions with clarity
  • Periodic low self esteem and self-doubts
  • Persistent fatigue or regular low energy
  • Erratic or altered sleep patterns (not able to sleep or oversleeping)
  • Change in eating habits .Appetite changes (increased or decreased)
  • Irritation or restlessness
  • Loss of interest in normally previous enjoyed activities
  • Feelings of giving up ,hopelessness or pessimism
  • Physical symptoms like headaches or digestive issues
  • Thoughts of self harm ,death or suicide .

The situation can be different for different people.Depression can look different for everyone, and you don’t need to hit a bout of actual sickness or depression. Now is the good time for you to seek help.

People with high-functioning depression may try to hide their symptoms from others, often out of fear of being judged or a feeling of embarrassment.Seeking help isn’t a sign of weakness. Even if coping with high-functioning depression seems possible on your own, you don’t need to manage without help. Treatment can help alleviate symptoms, improve quality of life, and prevent the condition from worsening over time.A person attempting to hide symptoms of depression may aggravate the problem hence let’s not delay further but talk now .

You can reach out to us

Call 7224896739 or email

mansikpramarsh@gmail.com

http://www.mansikpramarsh.com.

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Panic Attack :How to identify one and calm down during a panic attack

Posted in daily writings and musings of the psychologist, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on September 11, 2025| Leave a Comment »

When Rashi had her first panic attack she was appearing for school board exams .She didn’t know she was having one till her throat felt dry ,her hands started trembling and all of a sudden she felt she was going to faint .That made her cry out loud for help .She wanted to immediately get out of the examination hall.

However a timely intervention by the people around helped her recover faster as she was given the first aid support in time.

Panic attacks do not come with a warning and they become too scary to those who suffer one all of sudden and if a timely help is not available the same can turn a little damaging too .

Rashi did have some stress of her ensuing examination but she had also been suffering from fever for a few days and had not yet fully recovered . She had been feeling weak, a bit tired and sleepy . In this kind of stressful situation she had suddenly developed an anxiety   and lost control of mind .Her breathing seemed to have become very shallow,rapid and she had hyperventilated .

The feeling passed after little first aid support and within a few minutes she felt better although still dazed .No one knew that she had experienced her first panic attack that day, until it happened again when she was in a crowded shopping mall .

How to know if it is a panic attack

It can happen to anyone and can take place in any situation.We discuss hereunder the early signs and symptoms indicating about panic attack :

Usually it begins with a dizziness of the head and the person feels a little disoriented to the environment around .The other symptoms not necessary all of them together can be :

  • Mild pounding of heart in the middle of chest and feeling of fast heart beats
  • Shortness of breathing and feeling of suffocation
  • Breathless and major discomfort breathing even though the environment is not claustrophobic
  • Feeling a sense of numbness in the arms or legs or both
  • Chest pain
  • Hot flashes or cold sweat
  • Nausea
  • Trembling and shaking of body parts

Anxiety attack vs. panic attack

An anxiety doesn’t come all of a sudden but it builds up over time ruminating or apprehending some of the anticipated events and it remains there even when the event may not take place .Thus anxiety is triggering of the apprehension but it stays as a constant feeling disrupting the normal functioning .

A panic attack on the other hand has more debilitating effect , comes out all of a sudden and much more intense episode of fear ,anxiety and a feeling of oncoming loss of consciousness and breathing difficulty takes over .

Anxiety and panic attacks even though have similar symptoms, but panic can make one feel like one is losing control of one’s awareness,orientation .The person feels that brain and body are not coordinating . This can happen repeatedly leaving one helpless and worrying of being vulnerable all the time .Resultantly one may stop stepping out of home alone .

Some of the ways to calm down during a panic attack

Rashi was lucky when her first panic attack lasted only a few minutes and went away after help from the people around but the second time she wasn’t because it occurred in a shopping mall and help took a little longer .

Panic attacks tend to peak within a few minutes and go away also sooner but for some occasions these attacks can last longer and the person becomes restless with fear of something happening to him or her and gets panicky .

How do we control when a panic attack seems to be occurring or seems imminent:

Perceptive and Meditative Breathing;

Deep breathing has often been recommended as the compulsory activity to do when stressed .

In anxiety and panic perceptive breathing can really do magic on your mood.Lets understand how :

  1. Close your eyes softly
  2. Keep your body and spine supple and stress free
  3. Now focus on the lower end (tail end ) of your spine and breathe from the nose very slowly .The mind must be completely involved in the breathing .
  4. Inhale slowly from the nose feeling it’s impact on the lower end of the spine .
  5. Exhale slowly from the nose taking as much time as you took inhaling
  6. Continue for five to seven minutes
  7. Soon you would realise your mind and body relaxing and the anxiety level coming to almost nil .
  8. Repeat this exercise as often as you want to .

Relax your muscles and body by kayotsarga (progressive muscle relaxation exercise )

Anxiety and panic can cause your whole body to tense up making you feel uncomfortable. You can help reduce the stiffness of muscles of the body relaxing them one muscle at a time .Focus on each muscle beginning from the toes of the feet one by one and going upwards covering all parts of body one by one .An auto suggestion like ( my toes are relaxing ,my calf muscles are relaxing cover till the top of your forehead .

Move your body:yes that’s true:

Rather than sitting or lying down in panic going out for a walk or doing brisk walk in the room itself can help you bring your stress anxiety and the impending fear to a much reduced level .

Preferably you can, go for a walk outside or do some light stretching. Take yourself out of the environment that’s causing your anxiety .It will help ease your symptoms.

If you feel a panic attack coming on in a closed environment like bus ,train or an aircraft while travelling and you can’t get up and move , try these basic breathing exercises to help ground yourself and reduce the intensity of the attack.

  • Do some deep breathes and focus on the tip of your nostrils to feel the air getting in and exhaled air coming out . Soon you will feel better with diverted focus .
  • Breathe in deeply and exhale every breathe from the fingers of your feet one by one and later through each finger and toes of your hands .You will feel an ease coming to your mind and body soon.
  • Rub the palms of your hands slowly and putting the palms on your eyes later will help .

Doing this activity with your hands can help take your mind off anxiety a calmness sets in .

Repeat positive affirmations to yourself

A positive affirmation is a phrase or a sentence you repeat to yourself over and over but if you can write it and read it aloud ,the impact is many times more and empowering .

The statement can be

“ I am a calm person I am a powerful person “

or “I am a powerful person I can handle this situation “

Or “ I am a powerful person I have the power of mind “ .

Reading and saying these affirmations out loud can help, but if you’re in a public place and don’t feel comfortable with that, just say it silently to yourself. Make sure to read or speak the words slowly in your mind.

Get help of psychologist /Counselor

In order to prevent repeated occurrences ,you must seek the help of a psychologist .You can reach out to us at

Alka Mansik Pramarsh Foundation

http://www.mansikpramarsh.com

Family Therapy India

http://www.familytherapyindia.com

Or email

mansikpramarsh@gmail.com

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Why You Dread Mondays: Signs You’re Burning Out

Posted in daily writings and musings of the psychologist, The psychology counselling services available, tagged , , , , , on May 6, 2025| Leave a Comment »

“It happens to me every Monday morning, and believe me, doctor, I have come to dread my Sunday evenings too because I look at them as harbingers of the next week’s grueling work again,” averred Rajan*.

“At the beginning of every day, I usually open my work desk disinterestedly, with an apprehensive mindset that I may not be able to survive another week in this job,” says Lily*.

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels.com

When you feel that you aren’t keeping pace with your job and procrastination becomes a habit rather than an exception, it’s time to take stock of your mental and physical health. As more and more tasks pile up, you begin with a disinterested mind. Your motivation vanishes. You start playing with the idea of going on a vacation or looking for another job. But even that doesn’t happen, as your body, mind, and brain all seem locked up in ennui.

This is exactly the time to seek help from a professional to understand whether it is simple stress or the beginning of depression. But more important is to analyse if it is a burnout situation, which can often be misunderstood as depression.

When Your Efficiency Curve Declines

The efficiency curve of humans is like any other performance curve with various stages of physical, emotional, and mental output. The curve has a rising phase, where work performance can be quite mood-elevating, bringing with it expected rewards and revenues. But soon, stagnant work performance and declining strength and output catch up with you. Your body and mind feel exhausted, and a regular sitting job in front of a laptop or computer seems very taxing. Whenever that happens, you feel quirky, irritated, or disinterested. A short break does help with rejuvenation, but repeated situations like this need to be analysed and understood.

This is where the journey of prolonged stress begins, and exhaustion or burnout creeps in without you realising why or what is happening.

How Do You Know If It’s Stress or Burnout?

There’s a difference between being stressed and being burned out. Stress happens when you’re engaged in work and sometimes get overly involved. Burnout, on the other hand, means being disengaged.

Burnout feels like you’ve checked out of your life emotionally and have nothing left to give. This severe and chronic condition goes beyond feeling overwhelmed, anxious, frustrated, or fatigued. You might even experience physical effects like muscle tension, headaches, or digestive problems.

You can tell burnout from stress by noticing whether you’re avoiding work, frequently tired, and easily distracted. You also feel like a heavy load has been placed on your body and mind. People who are stressed believe things will improve once the source of stress is resolved. In burnout, nothing seems to work, and you feel like you can’t handle anything.

Signs You May Be Dealing with Burnout

Burnout occurs gradually over time. It creeps into your mental, physical, and emotional being and drains your energy completely. You sleep erratically and wake up wishing daylight had been delayed. You know you’re stuck in a vicious cycle—either of sleeplessness or oversleeping and avoidance.

Work piles up, phone calls remain unanswered, deadlines are missed. Headaches, body aches, and a general sense of listlessness and disinterest take their toll on your psyche.

When you browse the internet or seek advice, it can often be misunderstood or misdiagnosed as depression.

We advise you to get in touch with us if you need a professional assessment of your situation. Self-assessment or assumptions won’t give you an accurate diagnosis.

Our psychologist can assess, diagnose, and help you manage your burnout more effectively.

*Names and details have been changed to protect privacy. 

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The Psychological and Physical Effects of Chronic Worry

Posted in daily writings and musings of the psychologist, tagged , , , , on January 6, 2025| Leave a Comment »

Please note: All names and identifying details in the following article are fictional and used for illustrative purposes only.

Worry is a natural human emotion. It serves a purpose when it prompts us to constructively analyze a situation and plan a course of action. However, when worry spirals into constant fear and apprehension, it can become a debilitating emotional disturbance, hijacking the mind with perceived dangers that may never materialize. This chronic state can lead to anxiety, phobias, irrational thoughts, and obsessive behaviors.

Photo by energepic.com on Pexels.com

Case Studies: Two Sides of Worry

The impact of excessive worry can manifest in various ways. Consider Mrs. Sharma, whose daughter, Julie, attends a local kindergarten. Initially, Julie was excited about school. However, she suddenly began complaining of stomach aches and refused to go. A pediatrician found no physical cause, leading to counseling sessions with Julie, her parents, and her teacher. These sessions revealed that Julie was constantly worried about her mother being alone at home.

This anxiety mirrored Mrs. Sharma’s own behavior. Concerned about her daughter’s safety on the school bus, Mrs. Sharma’s concern evolved into obsessive behavior. She would repeatedly ask the bus driver to drive slowly, and even follow the bus on her scooter until it reached the school gates. This “melodrama,” as the article calls it, continued for over a month, eventually prompting the bus attendant to request Mr. Sharma’s intervention.

Another example is Mrs. Narwhal, whose fear of germs led to elaborate rituals. She kept a separate set of clothes in her bathroom to change into immediately upon returning home. She would then bathe and wash the clothes she had worn outside, believing this would cleanse her of any contamination. While this ritual provided her with temporary relief, it disrupted the peace of her family. Any attempts to dissuade her from these practices were met with resistance, further isolating her.

The Psychology of Excessive Worry

Just as young Julie’s mind created a narrative of her mother’s potential vulnerability at home, excessive worry can distort reality for adults. It can trigger a cascade of fears, apprehensions, and dark imaginings about the safety of oneself and loved ones. This can manifest as:

  • Chronic anxiety: A persistent feeling of unease and apprehension.
  • Phobic thoughts: Irrational fears of specific objects or situations.
  • Obsessive compulsions: Repetitive behaviors performed to alleviate anxiety.
  • Generalized anxiety: Worrying about a wide range of everyday matters.
  • Panic attacks: Sudden episodes of intense fear accompanied by physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, and sweating.

In severe cases, individuals may even begin to worry about their own worrying, creating a vicious cycle.

The Physical and Emotional Toll

Chronic worry can also have significant physical effects, including:

  • Breathlessness
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Excessive sweating
  • Choking sensations
  • Mental suppression and distress
  • Difficulty focusing and concentrating
  • Sleep disturbances

Seeking Help

When worry becomes chronic and debilitating, professional help is crucial. Effective treatments include:

  • Psychotherapy: To address the underlying causes of anxiety and develop coping mechanisms.
  • Cognitive therapy: To identify and challenge negative thought patterns.
  • Holistic therapy: To address the mind-body connection and promote overall well-being.
  • Mindfulness and meditation: To cultivate present moment awareness and reduce anxiety.

Conclusion

While occasional worry is a normal part of life, excessive worry can have a profound impact on mental and physical health. Recognizing the signs and seeking appropriate treatment are essential steps in reclaiming control and living a more fulfilling life.

-Ramneek Kapoor – Family Therapist, Psychologist Counselor and Science of Living Expert

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