" Mental Pain is less dramatic than physical pain, but it is more common & also more hard to bear.."
I’m Dr. Shwetha Purkanti, Psychiatrist working in Hyderabad with 12+ years of experience
My Passion for psychiatry drives me to practise art of active listening and understanding my client’s problems as a whole in the person’s biopsychosocial context
The initial consultation may run for 30 minutes or more, depending on the complexity of the issues at hand. I will collect a thorough medical and psychiatric history and address the issues that brought you in. At the end of the session I will offer my recommendations and produce a treatment plan. Sometimes this may be a referral to another treatment setting. Medication prescriptions are sometimes but not always written in the first session.
No, mental illness does not indicate weakness. Mental illnesses are complex conditions that can affect anyone, regardless of their strength, character, or personal qualities. Mental health issues are not a reflection of an individual’s weakness or lack of willpower.
Mental illnesses arise from a combination of various factors, including genetic predisposition, brain chemistry, environmental influences, life experiences, and more. They are legitimate medical conditions that can impact a person’s thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and overall well-being.
It is important to recognize that mental health is just as crucial as physical health. Seeking help and treatment for mental health concerns demonstrates strength, resilience, and self-awareness. It takes courage to reach out for support and to actively engage in the process of managing and recovering from mental illness.
Promoting understanding, empathy, and compassion regarding mental health issues is essential for creating a supportive and inclusive society. It is crucial to challenge stigmatizing beliefs and stereotypes and recognize that mental illness is not a sign of weakness, but rather a common human experience that deserves care, understanding, and support.
If you are experiencing issues that are affecting your daily functioning and physical health, it might be a good idea to seek help. For example : distressing thoughts, disturbed sleep, irritability, appetite disturbances,trouble at work, relationship issues etc.
Psychiatrist is a licensed physician with specialisation in the field of psychiatry.
Psychiatrist obtain medical degree (MBBS) upon attending medical college for 5 years followed by a further year of rotating clinical internship in medical specialties. They then receive basic residency training and qualification in psychiatry for 3 years (M.D in Psychiatry).They are qualified in assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental illness and prescribe medicines only if necessary.
Psychologists receive training in clinical psychology/ counselling psychology. After graduation they pursue M.phil and Ph.D. Depending on their training and education, they specialize in different types of therapies for mental health issues.
Any past medical or psychiatric records, psychological assessments.
For tele-consultations please keep your ID with you.
Yes. All psychiatric consultations are confidential. Your records will never be shared with anyone at any time without your consent.
Except :
1)when there is an imminent danger to you or others.
2) Required by law.
It depends on the nature and degree of a depressive episode. Usually for the first episode, one would need to take an antidepressant for up to 5-6 months. If they have remained symptoms free for the duration mentioned above, then an attempt can be made to taper down the dose and stop where appropriate.
In case of multiple episodes, a long term course of medicines is required.
Not all psychiatric medications are addictive. While some psychiatric medications can have the potential for dependence or addiction, many others do not. It’s important to understand that addiction and physical dependence are different concepts.
Psychiatric medications, such as antidepressants, antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, and anti-anxiety medications, are prescribed to treat various mental health conditions.
It’s important to work closely with a healthcare professional when starting or stopping any psychiatric medication to ensure the safest and most effective use. They can provide guidance on potential risks and benefits specific to your situation.
Technology-based patient consultation e.g. telephone, video,
Technology-based patient consultation e.g. telephone, video, devices connected over LAN, WAN, Internet, mobile or landline phones, Chat Platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger etc., or Mobile App or internet based digital platforms for telemedicine or data transmission systems like Skype/ email/ fax etc.
If you are in crisis, please contact the following helplines depending upon the emergency :
Suicide Helpline :http://www.aasra.info/helpline.html
Domestic Violence : National Commission for women (NCW) Whats App number –7217735372
Children helpline number is – 1098
