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Hindustan Times
16-05-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Psychiatrist shares 4 risks of sleep deprivation in postpartum mothers, suggests how to manage
Sleep deprivation is one of the most common challenges new mothers face, whether it's cradling the baby back to sleep, feeding, or responding to every cry throughout the night. Taking care of a newborn or even a toddler is very demanding, both physically and mentally. As mothers take care of all the needs, sleep gets compromised. Sleepless nights are often brushed off as a normal part of motherhood, something to simply 'brave through with patience.' But beyond the yawns and microsleeps lie deeper and more dangerous consequences for a mother's mental health. It's not something that should be normalised as the side effects are harmful to the entire wellbeing. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Tonmoy Sharma, Psychiatrist, CEO and Founder of Merlin Health, shared the consequences of sleep deprivation on maternal mental health. He said, 'Motherhood is often celebrated for its joys and transformative power, but hidden behind the lullabies and milestones is a reality many women quietly endure, the exhausting impact of sleep deprivation. Across urban and rural India alike, postpartum women navigate not just physical recovery but also the cognitive and emotional strain that comes from inadequate rest. It is time we acknowledge maternal sleep not as an afterthought, but as an integral part of comprehensive healthcare. The message is clear that maternal health cannot thrive in the absence of consistent, quality sleep.' ALSO READ: Pumpkin seeds for better sleep: A complete guide to their nutritional value and how to add to your diet Dr Tonmoy Sharma shared a detailed guide with us that covers the effects of sleep deprivation on mental health: Dr Tonmoy explained the measures to alleviate this challenge. He concluded, 'Even small interventions, short daytime naps, coordinated nighttime help from partners or relatives, and greater awareness around infant sleep patterns, can yield meaningful change. When mothers are supported in their rest, through shared responsibilities, community understanding, or structured postpartum care, outcomes improve for both mother and child.' ALSO READ: Mother's Day 2025: Expert tips to support the mental wellbeing of working, stay-at-home and single moms Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
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Business Standard
13-05-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
Karan Johar reveals he lives with body dysmorphia disorder: What it means
When someone as successful and celebrated as Karan Johar opens up about his struggles with mental health, it reminds us that mental illness can affect anyone, regardless of fame or success. In a recent podcast with YouTuber Raj Shamani, the 52-year-old filmmaker spoke candidly about battling body dysmorphia—a condition he says continues to impact him. 'I go through that even now,' he said, explaining how he still finds it difficult to look at himself in the mirror. What is body dysmorphic disorder (BDD)? According to the Cleveland Clinic, body dysmorphic disorder is a mental health condition in which a person becomes obsessively focused on perceived flaws in their appearance—flaws that are often invisible to others. People with BDD may engage in repetitive behaviours like checking mirrors, seeking reassurance, or avoiding social situations altogether. Emotional toll: What BDD feels like BDD can deeply affect emotional health and daily life. Those affected may feel: Ashamed or disgusted with their appearance Anxious and socially withdrawn Unworthy of love or approval Constantly preoccupied with how they look Karan Johar's confession—'I can't even look at myself in the mirror'—reflects the distress experienced by many living with BDD. How common is BDD, and why is it overlooked? A 2024 study in the Annals of Indian Psychiatry estimates that BDD affects around 2.4% of the global population, with nearly 1 million cases diagnosed each year in India. Yet the condition remains underdiagnosed due to stigma and lack of awareness. Does social media worsen body dysmorphia? Yes. Platforms that prioritise appearance and visual perfection often fuel unhealthy comparisons and unrealistic expectations. Psychiatrist Dr Tonmoy Sharma, CEO of Merlin Health, said excessive social media use—especially among teenagers—has been associated with poor body image and increased dissatisfaction. What causes body dysmorphic disorder? Genetics: A family history of anxiety or obsessive-compulsive traits Neurological factors: Imbalances in brain chemicals like serotonin Environmental triggers: Childhood bullying, trauma, or abuse Cultural and media pressures: Unrealistic beauty standards in popular culture Symptoms: Could you or someone you know have BDD? The Cleveland Clinic lists the following as signs: Excessive concern with minor or imagined flaws Avoiding mirrors or becoming obsessed with them Skipping social events due to appearance anxiety Seeking repeated cosmetic procedures Persistent need for validation about looks How is BDD diagnosed? There are no specific lab tests for BDD. Mental health professionals use interviews and questionnaires to evaluate symptoms and determine diagnosis. The goal is to understand the patient's thought patterns, behaviours, and emotional distress. Is Karan Johar using weight-loss injections? The director has denied using medications like Ozempic or Mounjaro. 'People don't know my truth,' he said, adding that he manages his thyroid condition through lifestyle changes and discipline. Why Karan Johar's admission matters Karan Johar's openness about living with body dysmorphia helps destigmatise a disorder that often hides behind silence and shame. BDD isn't about vanity—it's about the distress caused by distorted self-image. If you're struggling with body image issues, professional help is available—and healing is possible.
Hindustan Times
11-05-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Mother's Day 2025: Expert tips to support the mental wellbeing of working, stay-at-home and single moms
Mothers' Day 2025: Motherhood is a symbol of selfless love. Mothers quietly sacrifice their own needs to nurture and care for their families. Mothers often don't rest as they simultaneously manage multiple responsibilities and work without missing a beat, showcasing unwavering dedication. For every problem, the word 'mom' is the first thing that comes to mind, as she seems to have all the answers to your problems, whether it's finding your lost sock pair or grounding you during life's biggest storms, breakups, or failures. A post shared by LADY ARAYA | Homeschool | Health Conscious Motherhood (@ladyaraya) But at the end of the day, we tend to forget that our mothers are also human. They are expected to always be available with their problem-solving skills and cater to daily responsibilities, so much so that their own needs, passions, and desires are neglected. On May 11, Mother's Day, it's important to realise that your mother is also more than just a mother that she is a woman with her own needs. With the pressure to be always available at their families' beck and call, their mental health takes a hit. ALSO READ: Mother's Day 2025: Dietician shares the role of gut health in every mom's journey, recommends 7 essential nutrition tips In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Tonmoy Sharma, Psychiatrist, Founder and CEO of MerlinHealth, shared the importance of mental health in mothers. He said, 'Whether managing a demanding career, caring for children full-time, or doing it all alone, the emotional and mental load mothers carry can feel endless. The pressures to be perfect, the guilt over not doing enough, and the burnout that comes from constantly giving are common feelings, yet they're often dismissed or internalised. But a mother's mental health matters, regardless of her situation or role. Remember, mothers aren't just caregivers. They're human beings, with their own fears, hopes, and exhaustion, their own messy, lovely humanity.' He further shared a guide on caring for mental health for different types of moms. Here's the guide Dr Tonmoy shared: Dr Sharma concluded, 'Regardless of their unique circumstances, all mothers need to remember that their emotional well-being is not secondary. It is central to their ability to nurture and support others. Taking just 10 minutes alone each day, saying 'no' when things feel overwhelming, reaching out to a friend or support group, and allowing rest without guilt are small but powerful steps. When mothers feel stable and supported, their families benefit too. Taking care of your mind and heart isn't weakness, it's wisdom. ' Similarly, Sumanta Kar, CEO of SOS Children's Village, bringing in his expertise, highlighted the profound impact mothers have on nurturing both individuals and communities, the very backbone of society. He said, 'Mothers are the first architects of a child's values, resilience, and dreams, laying the foundation for stronger communities and a more compassionate society. Across cultures, they nurture not just families but entire generations, shaping the future through everyday acts of care, guidance, and perseverance. The unconditional love shown and nurturing environment created by a mother enables the child to reach their fullest potential and become the best version of themselves.'
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Business Standard
05-05-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
Behind the filter: Misha Agrawal's death sparks mental health wake-up call
Influencer Misha Agrawal's death has triggered a national reckoning on how online validation, social media pressures, and mental health intersect in the lives of Indian youth and influencers New Delhi It looked like she had it all: fame, fashion, fans, and a feed full of comedy sketches and social commentary. But behind the curated posts, 24-year-old Misha Agrawal, founder of Mish Cosmetics and a prominent social media personality with about 360,000 Instagram followers, was silently struggling. Her death by suicide in late April, just two days before her 25th birthday, has left her followers stunned and asking the question that netizens have avoided for too long: Are we truly okay behind our screens? Online popularity vs real-world validation: A dangerous confusion For followers, the news of Misha's death hit like a punch in the gut. She wasn't just another Instagram personality, she was a face people saw every day, someone whose content was relatable and brought smiles, and whose reels inspired and challenged the traditional norms of society. According to her sister, she had been battling depression, which was exacerbated by a decline in her follower count, a metric she closely associated with her self-worth and career aspirations. Despite holding a law degree and preparing for a judicial career, Misha was deeply invested in achieving the milestone of one million followers, even setting it as her phone's wallpaper. Her sister shared a message on Instagram, urging others to recognise that online popularity does not equate to real love or value. Misha's sister recalled how, starting in April, she became 'deeply depressed' and often expressed concern about the potential to lose followers and how that could impact her career. 'I tried to console her, explaining that this isn't her entire world, it's just a side job, and if it doesn't work out, it's not the end,' the post continued. Psychiatrist Dr Tonmoy Sharma, CEO of Merlin Health, a Gurugram-based mental health treatment centre, calls her passing 'a national alarm bell.' In his words, 'It's a reminder that in a hyperconnected world, emotional well-being cannot remain an afterthought.' It's easy to miss the signs when someone is on camera, but the red flags are often there. Dr Jyoti Kapoor, Senior Psychiatrist and Founder of Manasthali, explains, 'Early signs of depression include withdrawal, irritability, or losing interest in things they once loved. Many even start posting existential content or dark memes online, subtle cries for help that we often ignore.' Dr Trideep Choudhury from Fortis Healthcare breaks it down further, 'Depression is more than sadness. It alters sleep, appetite, energy levels, and even basic motivation. If suicidal thoughts emerge, that's a psychiatric emergency.' And yet, how many of us truly listen when someone's light dims, even a little? The emotional toll of being an influencer in India Being an influencer may seem glamorous, but as Misha's story reveals, the pressure behind the scenes is relentless. 'It's a lonely profession,' says Dr Kapoor. 'You're not just competing locally, it's global. You're chasing algorithms, reacting to criticism in real-time, and constantly putting yourself out there.' The world of social media thrives on instant feedback. But this comes at a cost. Dr Trideep warns, 'Instant gratification through likes and comments can become addictive. When those numbers drop, it can feel like instant invalidation. For those who tie their self-worth to this feedback, the emotional impact can be devastating.' Why social media platforms aren't built for mental health support Social platforms weren't built to care for your mental health, they were built to keep you scrolling. 'Social media is commercial,' says Dr Kapoor. 'It promotes content, not creators. Mental health isn't its job, so creators must look out for themselves.' This is why experts insist on setting boundaries, time-limited use, honest content, real-life connections, and offline validation. 'We need to disconnect to reconnect, with ourselves and with people who matter,' says Dr Kersi Chavda, Psychiatry Consultant at P. D. Hinduja Hospital & Medical Research Centre. Mental health infrastructure in India still far behind While Misha's death has sparked national conversations, India's mental health discourse is still behind, and the infrastructure is still woefully inadequate. As Dr Trideep points out, depression is often misunderstood as weakness, and seeking help is still stigmatised. 'Families can be the first line of defence, but they need awareness, not judgment,' he says. Dr Kapoor adds that trained professionals are unevenly distributed, mostly in urban centres, while rural and semi-urban India remains neglected. Even well-intentioned government initiatives like Tele-MANAS (Tele Mental Health Assistance and Networking Across States) or National Mental Health Program (NMHP) lack consistent execution. 'Therapy is seen as a luxury,' says Dr Chavda. 'Schools rarely have counsellors. And worse, people confuse Googled advice with professional care.' What can families, schools, and audiences do next? For starters, talk. Listen. And don't assume a smile means someone is fine. 'Ask the hard questions,' says Dr Sharma. 'Not just to friends who seem sad, but to those who seem perfectly fine too.' Experts say that parents need to create an emotionally safe home, schools should treat mental wellness with the same seriousness as academics, and influencers must be encouraged to be authentic, not perfect. Let Misha's story be a turning point for India's mental health narrative Misha's death should not be in vain. Doctors urge her followers to make it the turning point, for influencers, for families, for schools, and for society at large. Let it be the reason we pause before we scroll past someone's cry for help. Because, behind every curated feed, there could be a very real cry for connection.
