1. Introduction
📍 Welcome back to the Ananya Child Development Center podcast! I'm your host, Madhavi Adimulam, founder and director of Ananya CDC. Today, we are shifting our focus to a topic that's incredibly important yet often shrouded in stigma: mental health.
We are so fortunate to be joined by Dr. Kotipalli Jyothirmayi, a senior psychiatrist here in Hyderabad who's dedicated her career to breaking down those barriers and making mental health care more accessible to everyone. Dr. Jyothirmayi is not only a highly skilled clinician, but she's also a passionate advocate for her patients.
She recently co-founded Manaha Clinic in Kokapet, a space dedicated to providing holistic and compassionate mental health treatment. We are so excited to have you join us today, Dr. Jyothirmayi. Welcome to the podcast!
Dr. Jyothirmayi: Thank you, Madhavi.
2. The Vision of Manaha Clinic
Madhavi Adimulam: Dr. Jyothirmayi, what inspired you to create Manaha Clinic? What is your vision for this center, and what makes it stand out in the landscape of mental health care in Hyderabad?
Dr. Jyothirmayi: My journey towards creating Manaha Clinic began during my MBBS days. I vividly remember visiting the Institute of Mental Health (Erragadda Hospital) and being struck by the patients, their struggles, and the environment. That experience ignited a spark in me—I knew I wanted to be a psychiatrist.
Of course, there was stigma even then, both from my peers and my family. They couldn't understand my desire to specialize in psychiatry. But I was determined. I completed my post-graduation at the same institute, gaining valuable experience treating a wide range of mental health conditions.
After years of practice, I began to envision a different kind of space for mental health care. A space where people could come to feel better, not just physically but emotionally and mentally. A space that was welcoming, non-judgmental, and focused on holistic healing.
Research has shown that all psychiatric disorders have a biological basis, involving neurotransmitters and neurochemicals. So, I wanted to create a center that integrated neurology, psychiatry, psychology, and neuromodulation—all under one roof. And that's how Manaha Clinic was born.
At Manaha, we have a team of neurologists, psychiatrists, and psychologists who work collaboratively to provide comprehensive care. We also offer neuromodulation therapy, specifically rTMS (repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation), which is FDA-approved for conditions like depression, OCD, and anxiety disorders. It’s a non-invasive and highly effective treatment option.
We believe in a biopsychosocial approach, meaning we look at the biological, psychological, and social factors that contribute to a person’s mental health. We address the whole person, not just their symptoms.
For example, if someone comes to us with memory issues, we don’t just assume it’s dementia. We explore potential causes like depression, hormonal imbalances, vitamin deficiencies, and other medical conditions. We use questionnaires and scales to assess the severity, and if needed, we refer them to our neurologist for further evaluation. We also provide counseling and therapy to address any emotional or psychological factors that might be contributing to their difficulties.
Our goal is to help people understand their challenges, find effective solutions, and live fulfilling lives.
Madhavi Adimulam: That’s a wonderful vision, Dr. Jyothirmayi. Creating a space that feels safe and welcoming is so important for individuals seeking support for their mental health and neurological well-being. And I’m particularly intrigued by the neuromodulation therapy, specifically rTMS, that you offer at Manaha.
It's fascinating to see how technology and innovative therapies are being integrated into mental health care, and speaking of integrating different approaches, I know Manaha Clinic works with both adults and children. What drew you to working with not just adults, but also children and adolescents within this innovative approach to mental health care? What do you find particularly rewarding about helping this younger population navigate their mental and neurological health?
Dr. Jyothirmayi: Well, we believe in treating the whole family, not just the individual. And when it comes to children, early intervention is key. By addressing mental health concerns in childhood, we can potentially prevent more serious issues from developing in adulthood. It's about reducing the burden of mental illness for future generations and creating a healthier society overall.
Madhavi Adimulam: That’s a proactive and hopeful approach, focusing on prevention and early support. And speaking of hope, you've been a vocal advocate for reducing the stigma around mental health.
3. Breaking Down the Stigma
Madhavi Adimulam: Why do you think there's so much stigma, especially here in India? What are some common misconceptions about mental health that you encounter?
Dr. Jyothirmayi: The stigma is deeply rooted in our culture. Many people believe that mental illness is a sign of weakness, a character flaw, or even a curse. They might think it’s something to be ashamed of, something to hide.
I often hear misconceptions like:
- “Mental illness is not real.”
- “People with mental illness are dangerous.”
- “Mental illness is a choice.”
- “You can just snap out of it.”
These misconceptions prevent people from seeking help. They fear judgment, rejection, and discrimination. They might worry about the impact on their family, their career, or their social standing.
Madhavi Adimulam: It’s tragic that these myths keep people from getting the help they deserve. What can we do to encourage more open conversations about mental health?
4. The Power of Openness
Madhavi Adimulam: How can we, as individuals and as a society, create a more supportive environment for those struggling with their mental health?
Dr. Jyothirmayi: We need to start by talking about mental health more openly and honestly. We need to normalize these conversations, just like we talk about physical health.
Here are a few ways we can contribute:
- Share our own experiences: By talking about our own struggles with mental health, we show others that they're not alone.
- Listen without judgment: Create a safe space for people to share their feelings without fear of criticism.
- Educate ourselves: Learn about different mental health conditions and challenge misconceptions.
- Support mental health initiatives: Get involved in organizations that are working to break down stigma and increase access to care.
Even small actions can make a difference. Every conversation, every act of kindness, every effort to challenge stigma brings us closer to a more compassionate and understanding society.
Madhavi Adimulam: Beautifully said, Dr. Jyothirmayi. We’re starting to see a shift in the conversation, and it’s encouraging. Now, back to Manaha Clinic, you've spoken about the holistic approach you take.
5. Manaha Clinic: A Vision for Holistic Care
Madhavi Adimulam: Can you tell us more about what that means in practice and the types of therapies you offer?
Dr. Jyothirmayi: At Manaha, we believe that true healing comes from addressing the whole person—their physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs. We offer a variety of therapies, including:
- Individual therapy
- Group therapy
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Mindfulness-based therapies
- Yoga and meditation
- Art therapy
- Music therapy
We also work with nutritionists and other healthcare professionals to address any underlying physical health concerns that might be contributing to a person's mental health challenges.
Madhavi Adimulam: It sounds like a truly integrative approach. And you mentioned earlier that medication isn’t always the first line of treatment.
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6. Beyond Medication: Exploring Other Treatment Options
Madhavi Adimulam: What are some of the other therapeutic approaches that you find effective, such as therapy, lifestyle changes, or alternative therapies?
Dr. Jyothirmayi: Medication can be helpful in some cases, especially for severe mental illnesses. But we always try to explore non-pharmacological options first, especially for children.
Therapy can be incredibly powerful. It provides a safe space for individuals to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, to develop coping skills, and to work through past traumas or negative experiences.
Lifestyle changes can also play a significant role. Getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, spending time in nature, and nurturing social connections can all have a positive impact on mental health.
We also explore alternative therapies like yoga, meditation, and mindfulness practices, which can help to reduce stress, improve emotional regulation, and promote a sense of inner peace.
Madhavi Adimulam: It's about finding the right combination of approaches for each individual. Now, anxiety and depression are two of the most common mental health challenges, affecting people of all ages.
7. Anxiety and Depression: Common Challenges
Madhavi Adimulam: What are some signs and symptoms that people should be aware of? And when is it time to seek professional help?
Dr. Jyothirmayi: Anxiety and depression can manifest in various ways. Common signs of anxiety include excessive worrying, fear, restlessness, difficulty sleeping, and physical symptoms like a racing heart or sweating.
Depression often involves persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite or sleep, fatigue, and feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness.
If these symptoms last for more than two weeks, interfere with daily life, or are accompanied by thoughts of self-harm or suicide, it’s crucial to seek professional help immediately.
Madhavi Adimulam: It’s so important to recognize those signs and to know that help is available. Now, you specialize in treating both women and children.
8. Supporting Children and Adolescents
Madhavi Adimulam: What are some of the unique mental health challenges that children and adolescents face? What advice would you give to parents in Hyderabad who are concerned about their child’s mental well-being?
Dr. Jyothirmayi: Children and adolescents often struggle to express their emotions and might not have the same coping skills as adults. They might express their distress through behavioral changes, like:
- Becoming withdrawn or isolated.
- Having difficulty concentrating in school.
- Exhibiting increased anger or irritability.
- Experiencing changes in sleep or appetite.
- Losing interest in activities they used to enjoy.
If you notice any significant changes in your child's behavior, mood, or social interactions, it’s important to take those concerns seriously. Don’t dismiss it as “just a phase.” Talk to your child, listen to their concerns, and if needed, seek professional guidance.
Madhavi Adimulam: It’s about being attuned to those changes and seeking support early on. Now, I know from my experience at Ananya that the parent-child relationship is so vital in a child's development.
9. The Parent-Child Connection
Madhavi Adimulam: How important is the parent-child relationship in fostering mental wellness? What are some things that parents can do to build a strong and supportive connection with their children?
Dr. Jyothirmayi: The parent-child bond is absolutely crucial for a child’s mental and emotional well-being. Children need to feel safe, loved, and understood. They need to know that they can trust their parents and turn to them for support.
Here are a few tips for building that strong connection:
- Spend quality time together: Put away your phones, turn off the TV, and focus on being present with your child.
- Listen attentively: Really listen to what your child is saying, even if it seems trivial. Show them that their thoughts and feelings matter.
- Engage in activities they enjoy: Play games, read together, go for walks, or simply talk about their day.
- Express your love and appreciation: Tell your child you love them, give them hugs, and acknowledge their efforts and achievements, no matter how small.
- Create a safe and supportive home environment: Make sure your child feels comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment or criticism.
Madhavi Adimulam: Those are wonderful reminders, Dr. Jyothirmayi. It’s so easy to get caught up in the busyness of life, but those moments of connection are so valuable for children. Now, living in a city like Hyderabad can be quite stressful, for both adults and children.
10. Managing Stress in a Busy World
Madhavi Adimulam: What are some practical strategies for managing stress and promoting mental well-being in the midst of those daily demands?
Dr. Jyothirmayi: It’s essential to prioritize self-care and to build healthy coping mechanisms. Here are a few tips:
- Get enough sleep: Aim for at least 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night.
- Eat a balanced diet: Nourish your body with wholesome foods.
- Exercise regularly: Even a short walk can boost your mood and reduce stress.
- Spend time in nature: Connect with the calming presence of nature.
- Practice relaxation techniques: Explore yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.
- Connect with loved ones: Nurture your relationships and seek social support.
- Engage in activities you enjoy: Make time for hobbies, creative pursuits, or anything that brings you joy.
Madhavi Adimulam: It's a good reminder that taking care of our own well-being is essential, not just for ourselves, but for our families as well. You mentioned self-care earlier.
11. The Importance of Self-Care
Madhavi Adimulam: What does self-care really mean in the context of mental health? What are some simple yet effective self-care practices you recommend?
Dr. Jyothirmayi: Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential. It’s about prioritizing your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. It’s about taking time for yourself, doing things that bring you joy, and setting boundaries to protect your energy.
Even small acts of self-care can have a significant impact:
- Taking a relaxing bath
- Reading a good book
- Listening to music
- Spending time in nature
- Connecting with friends
- Getting a massage
- Pursuing a hobby
It’s about finding what nourishes your soul and making time for those activities, even if it's just for a few minutes each day.
Madhavi Adimulam: I love that perspective. It’s a reminder that self-care is not an indulgence; it’s a necessity. And for those struggling with their mental health, it can be even more crucial.
12. Seeking Help: The First Step to Healing
Madhavi Adimulam: For those who are struggling, taking that first step to seek help can be the hardest. What advice would you give to someone who's hesitant or unsure about reaching out for support?
Dr. Jyothirmayi: You are not alone. Many people experience mental health challenges at some point in their lives. It takes courage to reach out for help, but it’s a sign of strength, not weakness.
Here’s my advice:
- Talk to someone you trust – a friend, family member, or your primary care physician.
- Research mental health professionals in Hyderabad and find someone who specializes in the areas you're struggling with.
- Remember that therapy is confidential. You can share your thoughts and feelings openly without fear of judgment.
- Be patient with yourself. Finding the right therapist and the right approach takes time.
Madhavi Adimulam: Dr. Jyothirmayi, this has been such an open and insightful conversation. Thank you for sharing your expertise and your passion for making mental health care more accessible and approachable.
Dr. Jyothirmayi: It’s been a pleasure to be here, Madhavi. I believe that by talking openly about mental health, we can break down stigma and create a more supportive and compassionate community.
Madhavi Adimulam: For our listeners in Hyderabad who are seeking mental health support, I highly recommend reaching out to Dr. Jyothirmayi and her team at Manaha Clinic in Kokapet. You can find more information about Manaha Clinic on their website at [insert website address].
We’re also excited to announce a new initiative at Ananya Child Development Center: Recommended Physicians. We’re creating a dedicated section on our website, www.asap.org.in, where we’ll feature trusted medical professionals like Dr. Jyothirmayi, who are committed to supporting children and families in Hyderabad.
Remember, mental health is just as important as physical health. It’s okay to not be okay, and there’s no shame in seeking help. You are not alone.
I’m Madhavi Adimulam, and this is the Ananya Child Development Center podcast.
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