Understanding Schizophrenia Through Patient Stories: A Call for Compassion and Whole Person Care
By Dr. Vinita Mathew, Family Physician and Counselor, Mumbai Schizophrenia is a complex mental illness that affects people of all ages and backgrounds. By sharing real stories from patients and families, we can foster understanding, advocate for early intervention, and drive lasting stigma reduction. Here’s a concise look at four cases that highlight different aspects of living with psychosis—and the vital roles families, communities, and healthcare providers play in recovery. Case 1: Young Student Facing Psychosis A 21-year-old woman preparing for a high-stakes exam began showing warning signs—muttering to herself, unexplained smiling, dropping out of school, and fears that someone wanted to harm her. She struggled to concentrate on studies and was found at a police station after going missing. Key learnings: Early Red Flags: Changes in speech, behavior, social withdrawal, and paranoia(suspicious belief that others may harm/persecute/deceive) need urgent attention. Early Intervention: Starting low-dose medication and supportive measures(therapy,lifestyle change,social support) at the first sign of illness improves outcomes. Family Support: Families should learn about the disorder from credible sources to offer better support and deal with stigma,encourage treatment and academic engagement and seek school or community help. Safety and Empathy: Balancing understanding with safety—especially in behaviors like wandering—is critical.Hence understand the root cause,create a safe environment, involve the individual in safety planning, build trust, get caregiver training/ psychoeducation,use tracking technology to track location and adapt as per need. Case 2: Chronic Psychosis and Social Challenges A 36-year-old beautician with untreated schizophrenia became suspicious, aggressive, and socially isolated. Delayed care led to worsening symptoms and personal setbacks, including a broken engagement. Initiating antipsychotic medication brought notable improvement, but relapses occurred whenever treatment stopped. Key learnings: Recognize Symptoms: Delusions ( which are fixed, strong beliefs that aren’t true, but the person believes them no matter what evidence is shown otherwise. These beliefs can seem strange or unrealistic from the outside, but to the person with schizophrenia, they’re very real and convincing), disorganized speech, aggression, and poor insight signal chronic psychosis. Managing Aggression: Families should seek emergency help and professional guidance for violent behavior. Medication Adherence: Consistent use of antipsychotics is essential—family support is crucial for sticking to treatment. Transparency: Open family discussions and counseling can guide decisions about disclosure in relationships and marriage. Case 3: Brief Reactive Psychosis in a Professional A 40-year-old IT worker experienced frightening auditory hallucinations (voices urging self-harm), but no long-term symptoms. Early medication led to full recovery within a month, and the patient returned to work. Key learnings: Defining Brief Psychosis: Short-term, dramatic symptoms need correct diagnosis; not all hallucinations (auditory,visual,olfactory,gustatory,tactile) signal chronic illness. Recovery and Return: Rapid response to treatment is common; workplace accommodations can support reintegration. Hopeful Narratives: Sharing stories of fast recovery helps reduce stigma and encourages help-seeking. Case 4: Late-Onset Psychosis and Cognitive Decline An older adult displayed paranoia, confusion, memory problems, and changes in sleep and appetite. Comprehensive assessment and cautious treatment—combined with family education—helped stabilize functioning. Key learnings: Differentiating Causes: Physicians must separate psychiatric from organic conditions (like dementia). Ongoing Monitoring: Regular support protects against relapse and cognitive decline. Empathy Matters: Late-onset psychosis needs as much compassion and medical integration as any other illness. Takeaway: Breaking Stigma, Building Support Across these stories, several themes emerge: Early recognition and family vigilance save lives and futures. Medication adherence, psychoeducation, and compassionate family support drive recovery. Multidisciplinary teamwork—physicians, mental health specialists, social services—optimizes care and outcomes. Open discussion and real-life recovery stories encourage acceptance and fight stigma. By listening, sharing, and supporting—at home, school, work, and in the clinic—we can help those affected by schizophrenia reclaim hope and meaningful roles in society. Let’s continue this conversation. Recovery is possible, and every act of compassion makes a difference.
Finding Your Rest – Sleep Tips From Your Family Doctor
By Dr. Vinita Mathew, Family Physician and Counselor, Mumbai 20th August 2025 “The best bridge between despair and hope is a good night’s sleep.” —E. Joseph Cossman Some practical, gentle ways to invite sleep! Hello! If you’re reading this because sleep is a struggle, you’re in good company. As a family Physician who loves helping people thrive—body, mind, soul and spirit —I know how much a good night’s rest matters. Let’s talk about practical, gentle ways to invite sleep in, the same way you welcome a friend into your home. Sleep Hygiene: What’s That? Think of sleep hygiene like bedtime habits that set the stage for a restful night—just like how brushing and flossing helps keep your teeth strong and healthy. For sleep, the right habits create the perfect conditions for your mind and body to relax, so you can drift off more easily and wake feeling refreshed. A patient once told me, “Trying to sleep feels like trying to catch a butterfly in the dark!” Sound familiar? The truth is, you can’t “force” sleep, but you can create an inviting garden so the butterfly of sleep will naturally land. “Your future depends on your dreams, so go to sleep.” — Mesut Barazany Simple Steps for Better Sleep 1. Keep a Steady Rhythm Ever noticed how kids get cranky when bedtime shifts around? Grown-ups aren’t so different! Going to bed and waking up around the same time each day—even weekends—teaches your body when it’s time to wind down. A Real-life example: My patient Maria started setting an alarm for both bedtime and wake-up time. After a week, her mornings felt more energetic and her nights less restless. 2. Create a Wind-Down Ritual Remember as a kid, when someone read you a story or tucked you in? Even as adults, our brains love cues that it’s time for sleep. Pick something relaxing: read a book, listen to soft music, take a warm shower, or jot down three things you’re grateful for. Tip: One patient swears by lighting a lavender candle and listening to mellow tunes for 20 minutes before lights out. 3. Turn Your Bedroom Into a Sleep Sanctuary Your bedroom should be a place your brain connects with rest—not work, emails, or late-night scrolling. Make it cool, dark, and quiet. Invest in soft sheets, blackout curtains, and if the world is noisy, try earplugs or a soothing white noise app. Success Story: A young couple I see bought affordable blackout curtains—suddenly, those early morning wakeups became a thing of the past! 4. Ease Up on Stimulants (and Screens) That afternoon cup of coffee or late-night phone check? They can steal your sleep. Try switching to herbal tea after lunch, and put phones or tablets away an hour before bed. The blue light from screens sends “stay awake” signals to your brain just when you want to rest. 5. Daytime Movement, Evening Calm Physical activity is fantastic for sleep, but keep tough workouts for earlier in the day. Evening is for unwinding. Example: Sam, a teacher, swapped his 8PM run for a lunchtime brisk walk. He found it so much easier to fall asleep—and his students noticed his perkier mood, too! 6. Quiet the Mind Worries love to visit at bedtime. If your thoughts are racing, keep a notebook by the bed. Jot down tomorrow’s tasks so your mind can let go (at least for tonight). Gentle breaths, prayer, or a meditation app can work wonders. “Sleep is the golden chain that ties health and our bodies together.” — Thomas Dekker Sleep Is More Than Just Bedtime When you struggle with sleep, it’s not just about the bed. Stress at work, worries about family, or even physical problems like pain or snoring can play a role. As your doctor, I care about the whole you—and want to help figure out what’s standing in your way. When to Ask for More Help If you’ve tried these tips for a few weeks and sleep is still stubborn, let’s talk. Sometimes sleep troubles are a sign of something deeper—like anxiety, depression, or a medical issue that needs special attention. You Deserve Rest Caring for your sleep isn’t selfish—it’s self-respect. A well-rested you is a kinder, more energetic you! Sleep doesn’t always come easily, but keep tending your “sleep garden.” Be gentle with yourself. And remember: my door is always open if you want to talk more about how to make restful nights a reality. Sweet dreams,Dr. Vinita Mathew
Beyond Symptoms: How I See the Whole Person in Every Consultation
By Dr. Vinita Mathew, Family Physician and Counselor, Mumbai Why care for the whole person As a family physician trained in Family medicine my approach is shaped by faith, science, and a deep commitment to seeing each patient as a whole being. It’s not about treating a person with a collection of symptoms. Family Medicine is a medical specialty focused on providing comprehensive and continuous care to individuals and families across all ages and health conditions where consultations go beyond the immediate complaint. My aim during the consultation is to understand the full tapestry of a person’s life – body, mind, spirit, and relationships, by using family assessment tools and a holistic Christ centered perspective. In this blog, I share why this approach matters, especially for Indian families, and how it leads to better health outcomes. Symptom-Centered Care versus Whole-Person Care Traditional medical consultations often focus on diagnosing and treating symptoms in isolation. While this can address immediate concerns, it frequently misses the underlying factors-family stress, social dynamics, emotional struggles, or spiritual needs-that shape health and healing. For Indian patients, whose lives are deeply intertwined with family and community, this narrow focus can leave much of the story untold. My faith teaches me to see each patient as created in God’s image, worthy of dignity, respect, and compassionate care. This means recognizing the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs-not just the diagnosis. The Christ centered healthcare in India has long championed this holistic model, serving not only physical ailments but also addressing poverty, stigma, and community well-being. Family Assessment Tools to understand the Bigger Picture My desire is to truly understand each person, and therefore I use the following family assessment tools during my consultations: Family Genogram: this is a visual map of your family’s structure, relationships, and medical history, helping uncover patterns that influence health. Family APGAR: through a quick questionnaire, a family physician can assess your satisfaction with family functioning-adaptation, partnership, growth, affection, and resolve. Family Circle and Mapping: These tools illustrate family roles, communication patterns, and support systems, revealing sources of stress or resilience. These tools allow me to see how family dynamics, history, and resources shape the health journey which is especially relevant in Indian households where multigenerational living, caregiving, and shared stressors are common. A peek at Whole-Person Consultation During the visit to my clinic the conversation goes beyond “What brings you here today?” I ask about: Family relationships and recent changes Emotional well-being and stressors Spiritual beliefs and practices Social support and community ties Lifestyle, work, and environmental factors By weaving these threads together, I can identify root causes, anticipate challenges, and tailor care that fits each person’s unique context. Advantages for Indian Patients Culturally Relevant Care Indian families are often close-knit, with health decisions influenced by elders, traditions, and collective values. Family assessment tools respect and leverage these dynamics, ensuring care plans are practical and acceptable within your social context. Early Detection of Hidden Issues Many health problems-like diabetes, hypertension, or depression-run in families or are exacerbated by family stress. Genograms and family mapping help spot these patterns early, allowing for preventive care and timely intervention. Addressing Mental and Emotional Health Stigma around mental health remains high in India. By normalizing discussions about family stress, conflict, or grief, I create a safe space for a person to share concerns that might otherwise go unspoken, leading to more comprehensive care. Empowering Families, Not Just Individuals Health is a shared journey. Engaging family members in consultations means better support at home, improved adherence to treatment, and shared responsibility for wellness. Continuity and TrustFamily medicine is rooted in long-term relationships. By knowing a family’s story, I can offer consistent, personalized care over years-building trust and making it easier to navigate complex health challenges together. Faith-Inspired Compassion and Dignity I strive to treat every person with dignity and respect, honoring your beliefs, values, and preferences. This aligns with the principles of person-centered and family-centered care: respect, information sharing, participation, and collaboration. Irrespective of the person’s faith background, you will be welcomed and valued. Stories from My Practice A young woman with repeated stomach pain found relief only when we addressed the stress of caring for her aging parents and the lack of family support. An elderly patient’s depression improved when his family, guided by our assessment, recognized his need for meaningful roles and connection. A child’s asthma attacks decreased after mapping family routines and reducing environmental triggers at home. Conclusion: Beyond Symptoms, Toward Wholeness In every consultation, I see each person as a whole person-shaped by family, faith, and community. By using family assessment tools and a compassionate, holistic approach, I can offer care that heals not just the body, but the heart and soul as well. For Indian families, this means care that is relevant, respectful, and rooted in the realities of each one’s life. So when you walk into my clinic, know that I see the whole you. And together, we journey toward lasting health and wholeness. References:https://www.nextgen.com/blog/health-it-101/what-is-whole-person-care https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9138803/
Beyond the Screen: How Early Experiences Fuel Social Media Anxiety
By K.SHEETHAL, MA clinical psychologist In today’s super-connected world, social media anxiety is a big problem. Many of us know the “bad cycle”: a quick good feeling from a “like,” then constantly checking for more, and finally, disappointment when nothing new appears. This can lead to feeling useless, upset, and sad. It can even cause physical problems like tense muscles, dizziness, or trouble sleeping. But what if the real reasons for this modern problem go much deeper than just apps and websites? The way social media anxiety works is clear: it starts when you post a picture. Then come the thoughts like, “I’ll keep checking for more likes or mentions!” This leads to feelings of excitement, then worry, frustration, sadness, and worthlessness. These feelings make us behave in certain ways, like constantly scrolling and refreshing, or even pretending to have a different life online. Our body also reacts with a quick burst of good chemicals, followed by tension, sleep problems, and an upset stomach. While we see the immediate effects of social media, it’s vital to understand what makes people open to this cycle. Often, the roots of social media anxiety are planted when we are young, especially because of certain parenting styles and early life experiences. When Connection is Missing When parents can’t spend enough time with their kids, they might miss important things happening in their children’s lives. Relying a lot on caretakers, even good ones, can mean kids don’t get enough dedicated care, love, and watchful attention. This lack can leave an empty space that children later try to fill by seeking approval from others. Another big factor is bullying from other kids. Even if parents are doing a good job, bullying can have a deep and lasting effect. Mean words or being left out, which might seem “silly” to an adult, can really hurt a child’s confidence and feeling of self-worth. According to Erik Erikson’s theory on how people develop, not getting enough love, care, and attention during important childhood stages can make children feel self-doubt and have low self-esteem. They might struggle to accept themselves as they are, always looking for others to tell them they’re “good enough.” This basic feeling of being unsure makes them very likely to fall for the appeal of social media and the worries that come with it, where likes and mentions seem to measure their value. A Real-Life Example: The over-scheduled Child Think about a common situation today. A parent recently worried that their 2nd-grade child wasn’t getting good grades and immediately thought of a “learning disability” after watching a movie. But this same child’s day was packed: school, then tutoring, and then more “online learning apps” on a phone. The parent herself was often busy with her own online life, perhaps as an influencer. This story shows several big problems. Too much focus on grades at a young age, plus a too-busy schedule, can take away the free play and real interaction that kids need to grow up healthy. When screens replace parents being present and connecting, children learn to look for attention and approval elsewhere. The parent’s own search for online approval can, without meaning to, teach the child that pretending or showing a perfect image is needed to be liked – which is just like “pretending to have a different life on social media.” Thinking there’s a “disability” can sometimes hide the real issue: not enough steady, caring attention from parents. Breaking the Cycle: Solutions from Early Nurturing The good news is we can fix these basic problems to help stop social media anxiety. The answer is to build a strong sense of self-worth and inner strength from a young age: Praise and Encourage: Always praise your children for their efforts and achievements, no matter how small. Teach them that learning and practicing more leads to becoming good at things. This helps them want to grow and learn, instead of just wanting quick praise. Help Them Solve Problems: Help your children learn to think for themselves by encouraging them to think through and solve their own problems. This builds their confidence in what they can do and makes them less reliant on others’ approval. Support Talents and Interests: Actively praise and boost their talents. Whether it’s getting a star at playgroup or good comments from school, notice their successes and show real interest in what they do. Understand Their Experiences: Never ignore how experiences like bullying can affect them. Even a “small” comment can really hurt a child’s confidence. Listen to your kids, understand their feelings, and take their worries seriously. By making love, attention, and building self-esteem top priorities in childhood, we can give the next generation the inner strength to handle social media.9 This helps them have a healthier relationship with both their online and real-world selves. It’s about being truly present, not just physically, but emotionally, to build a strong foundation for confident and resilient individuals. Do you think schools and teachers should also help build good self-esteem in kids, and what could they do?
Fibromyalgia: A Patient’s Guide to Understanding and Managing Chronic Pain
By Dr. Vinita Mathew, Family Physician & Counsellor (M.B.B.S, PGD Counselling Psychology, PGD Mental Health) Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbances. It’s more common than you might think, affecting about 1 in 20 primary care patients, with women being ten times more likely to be affected than men. The typical age of presentation is between 20 and 50 years, but it can occur in children, adolescents, and older people. What Causes Fibromyalgia? The exact causes are still unclear but are believed to involve a combination of environmental factors (like trauma or illness) and genetic factors. People with a family history of fibromyalgia are more likely to develop it. It’s also linked to factors like not finishing education, low income, being female, and divorce. Some consider it a psychogenic or psychosomatic condition, but research points to it being a disorder of pain regulation, specifically a form of central sensitization. This means the brain amplifies pain signals. What are the Symptoms? The main symptoms include: Chronic widespread pain: Pain in multiple areas of the body. Fatigue: Persistent tiredness. Sleep disturbance: Difficulty sleeping. Other common symptoms include: Muscle pain and tenderness Forgetfulness or trouble concentrating Morning stiffness Paraesthesia (numbness or tingling) Headaches Dizziness Weight fluctuations Anxiety and depression Symptoms often worsen with cold, humid weather and stress. How is Fibromyalgia Diagnosed? Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on a doctor’s evaluation. There are criteria from the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) that include a symptom survey to assess pain locations, fatigue, sleep issues, and mood. To meet the ACR criteria, certain conditions must be met: A widespread pain index (WPI) and symptom severity score must meet specific thresholds. Symptoms must have been present at a similar level for at least three months. Other disorders that could explain the pain must be ruled out. Note: Fibromyalgia is not a diagnosis of exclusion. While lab tests aren’t usually needed to diagnose fibromyalgia, they can help rule out other conditions. Associated Conditions Fibromyalgia can occur alongside other conditions like: Anxiety and depression Irritable bowel syndrome Rheumatoid arthritis Lupus Restless leg syndrome Chronic fatigue syndrome Treatment Options The best approach involves managing symptoms to improve quality of life through both medication and non-medication methods. Non-pharmacological treatments: Patient education: Understanding the condition is crucial. Exercise: Regular aerobic and strength training can be helpful. Sleep hygiene: Improving sleep habits. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): Helps manage psychological aspects and stressors. Pharmacological treatments: Pain relievers: Paracetamol, NSAIDs, and tramadol can help manage pain. Antidepressants: Can reduce pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbances. Other medications: Pregabalin and gabapentin may help reduce pain in some patients. Important Note: Corticosteroids and strong opioids are not recommended. Living with Fibromyalgia Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition, and managing it can be challenging. Working closely with your doctor to find the right combination of treatments and support is essential for living well with fibromyalgia.
Beat the Mumbai Heat: Your Family’s Ultimate Summer Survival Guide
By Dr.Vinita Mathew, Family Physician & Counsellor (M.B.B.S, PGD Counselling Psychology, PGD Mental Health) Mumbai summers are legendary-intense heat, relentless humidity, and the ever-present bustle of city life. For families, this season brings unique challenges, from keeping kids hydrated to ensuring elderly relatives stay cool and comfortable. As a family physician practicing Whole Person Care in Mumbai, I believe that a holistic approach-addressing physical, mental, and environmental well-being-can help your family not just survive, but thrive during the hottest months of the year. Hydration Hacks for Every Age Dehydration is a common summer woe, especially for children and seniors. Mumbai’s humidity causes us to sweat more, losing essential fluids and electrolytes. Encourage your family to drink water regularly, even before they feel thirsty. Infuse water with fresh mint, lemon, or cucumber slices for added flavor and nutrients. Traditional drinks like nimbu pani (lemonade), chaas (buttermilk), and coconut water are excellent choices to replenish salts and keep the gut cool. For kids, make hydration fun-offer colorful water bottles, set reminders, or create a “hydration chart” as a family project. For elders, keep water within easy reach and offer small sips frequently, as their thirst sensation may be reduced. Sun Safety: Shield Your Skin and Eyes Mumbai’s sun can be harsh, especially between 11 am and 4 pm. Dress your family in lightweight, loose-fitting cotton clothes that allow the skin to breathe and sweat to evaporate. Wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses provide extra protection for sensitive skin and eyes. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) to all exposed skin, and reapply every two hours, especially if sweating or outdoors for long periods. Encourage outdoor play and errands in the early morning or late evening when the sun is less intense. If you must be out during peak hours, seek shade whenever possible. Keep Your Home a Cool Haven With power cuts and soaring temperatures, keeping your home cool can be a challenge. Use light-colored curtains to reflect sunlight, and keep windows open for cross-ventilation during cooler parts of the day. Switch to cotton bed linens and avoid using heavy blankets. If you have air conditioning, set it to a moderate temperature to avoid sudden chills. Simple hacks like placing a bowl of ice in front of a fan or using damp washcloths on the forehead and neck can provide instant relief. Encourage everyone to take cool showers, especially after returning from outside. Spot the Signs of Heat Illness Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are serious risks in Mumbai’s summer. Watch for symptoms like excessive sweating, dizziness, headache, nausea, rapid heartbeat, or confusion. If anyone in your family shows these signs, move them to a cool place, offer fluids, and seek medical help immediately if symptoms worsen. Mind and Mood: Stay Mentally Cool The heat can make tempers flare and sap our energy. Create a calm home environment-play soothing music, encourage quiet indoor activities, and ensure everyone gets enough rest. Practice simple breathing exercises or yoga as a family to stay mentally balanced. Your Summer Checklist Mumbai’s summer is tough, but with a few mindful habits and a whole-person approach, your family can stay healthy, happy, and ready to enjoy all the season has to offer.
Are You Running on Empty? Understanding the Key Characteristics of Burnout
By Dr. Vinita Mathew, Family Physician & Counsellor (M.B.B.S, PGD Counselling Psychology, PGD Mental Health) In our fast-paced world, many of us find ourselves juggling multiple responsibilities, striving for success, and caring for others. While these are often fulfilling aspects of life, they can also lead to a state of chronic exhaustion known as burnout. At Raahat Wellness Center, we understand the importance of whole-person care, recognizing that our physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being are interconnected. If you feel like you’re running on empty, it’s crucial to recognize the signs of burnout and take steps toward recovery. So, what exactly are the key characteristics of burnout? Let’s explore three core elements: 1. Overwhelming Exhaustion: At the heart of burnout is a profound sense of exhaustion. This isn’t just ordinary tiredness; it’s a persistent fatigue that doesn’t go away with rest. This type of exhaustion stems from a depletion of your ability to cope with your environment, leaving you feeling drained, both physically and mentally. When you’re burned out, you may experience: This chronic exhaustion affects not just your body but your mind and spirit, making it difficult to engage fully in life. 2. Emotional Detachment: Another hallmark of burnout is emotional detachment. You might find yourself feeling emotionally numb, disconnected from others, or as if you don’t really care about things you once found meaningful. This can manifest in several ways: This emotional detachment can strain relationships and lead to a sense of loneliness and isolation, compounding the effects of burnout. 3. Reduced Sense of Accomplishment and Discouragement: Burnout can also erode your sense of personal accomplishment and purpose, leading to feelings of discouragement and self-doubt. You may experience: This reduced sense of accomplishment can lead to a downward spiral, where you feel less motivated and more discouraged. Recognizing these three key characteristics of burnout is the first step toward recovery. If you are experiencing these symptoms, know that you’re not alone, and help is available. By understanding the signs, you can take proactive steps to address the underlying causes of your burnout and restore balance in your life. At Raahat Wellness Center, we offer a range of resources and support to help you overcome burnout, including counseling, mindfulness practices, and strategies for self-care. Remember, caring for yourself is not selfish; it’s essential for your well-being and for your ability to care for others. Reach out to us today to start your journey toward a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Surprising link between Cancer and Mental Health
By Dr. Mathew S.P Greetings from Shalom Lifecare’s new initiative, Raahat. My wife Dr Vinita Mathew and myself, Dr Mathew S Peedikayil, are Medical Doctors. Our mission is to bring the Shalom of God into Healthcare. I would like to share three vital tips that will help us to overcome this deadly disease, Cancer, and other diseases as well. And these tips will not cost you any money!,How many would like to know them?We are from Raahat, a total person wellness centre with a vision to provide A place of comfort – refreshing, rejuvenation and restoration of mind, body, soul and spirit through whole person care. Coming to the topic at hand, Cancer. Research shows that our Mental health is closely linked to this deadly disease. Here are three ways in which mental health and Cancer are related: Unforgiveness and Cancer: Michael Barry (DMin, Fuller Theological Seminary; MA, Princeton Theological Seminary) is Director of Pastoral Care at the Cancer Treatment Centers of America, where he specializes in the connection between spirituality and health. In the Forgiveness Project: The Startling Discovery of How to Overcome Cancer, Find Health, and Achieve Peace https://g.co/kgs/G6WxebF, he shows the startling link between unforgiveness and cancer. Dr. Anna Maria Clement, one of the co directors of Hippocrates Health Institute in Florida, USA, observed after 40 years of study, that anger, bitterness, unforgiveness, and anxiety are linked with cancer. There is an increased risk. How do we overcome this? As the word of God reminds us, there is a way: Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. (Col 3:12-13 NIV) Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in God Christ forgave you. Ephesians 4:32 When the Bible tells us to be kind, compassionate and forgiving towards each other, it is actually telling us what is best for our health. All of God’s commands to us are intended to bless and to bring healing to our bodies. Forgiveness is one of the most therapeutic phenomena in the whole world. Unforgiveness and resentment is destructive to our mind and body. Dr Dallas Willard says, “Everything you can do with anger, you can do better without it”. People with an angry disposition often destroy three things in their lives: career, health, and relationships, ending up either in a jail, hospital or mortuary. We all experience anger occasionally. Few minutes of anger is legitimate, it is a natural reaction to hurt or injustice but when you dwell on it and allow it to fester it turns into resentment and bitterness. There is a popular saying, “resentment is like drinking poison and waiting for the other person to die” Here, let me also remind you that forgiveness is not: * Approving what others did when they clearly have done something wrong: * Excusing what they did, though it has caused you pain. ‣ Justifying or trying to nullify the other person’s actions. * Reconciliation, because it takes two people who have come to an understanding and who are on the same page. Reconciliation does not mean that I become the best of friends with people who have hurt me and allow them to hurt me again. * Denying what others did. * Being blind to what happened. * Forgetting Childhood abuse and Cancer Many years ago, I heard Dr Caroline Leaf, a christian neuroscientist say that if a person has experienced any severe form of abuse by the age of 12, be it sexual, physical, or emotional, the probability of them getting cancer in adulthood increases by 30%. A 2007 survey conducted by The Ministry of Women and Child Development in lndia revealed that over 53 percent of children in India had been subjected to one or more forms of sexual abuse and over 20 percent were subjected to severe forms of sexual abuse. Childhood abuse and trauma occurs in many forms. Cancer and Mental Health: Studies have shown that following a cancer diagnosis, people commonly experience a change in mental health, with 1 in 4 experiencing depression and many others experiencing anxiety. One of the first steps to addressing your mental health following a cancer diagnosis — and throughout your entire cancer journey — is to recognize changes in your emotions and getting help when you need it. At Raahat, we believe in both prevention and treatment. We are here for you, always! Tags: Cancer, Mental Health, Forgiveness, Love, Peace, Envy, Anger, Jealousy, Shalom
Climate Change & Mental Health
By Sujata Jayaprakash, Family & Youth Counsellor Has it ever occurred to you that climate change isn’t just an environmental issue but can also significantly impact mental health? It affects people across all ages, economic backgrounds, and regions. Though the experiences and responses may differ based on various factors, here are some key ways climate change affects mental health. As the realities of climate change become more visible, such as rising temperatures, frequent natural disasters, and extreme weather events, many people experience heightened anxiety about the future. This “climate anxiety” or “eco-anxiety” is a growing concern, particularly among young people and those deeply aware of environmental issues. The uncertainty about what life will look like for future generations are making people fearful, leading to chronic worry and feelings of helplessness. Experiencing or witnessing climate-related natural disasters like floods, hurricanes, and wildfires can also cause trauma and lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Loss of homes, livelihoods, and even loved ones can deeply affect an individual’s psychological well-being. Those who lose jobs, income, or homes due to climate disasters face heightened stress levels. These economic and social insecurities can worsen mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. We have recently witnessed that in Wayanad after the landslide and losses. In general, people feel unable to change or adapt to worsening conditions. Young people are particularly vulnerable to climate-related anxiety because they face a future that will be heavily shaped by climate change. This can lead to feelings of uncertainty, hopelessness, and frustration. Older adults may feel vulnerable due to their physical limitations in coping with extreme weather events, contributing to heightened stress and anxiety. Social disconnections due to extreme weather events or disasters can disrupt social networks and communities, leading to feelings of isolation. People may become cut off from support systems, worsening loneliness and mental health struggles. Frequent disruptions in day-to-day life due to climate events—whether it is school closures, travel delays, or loss of resources—can cause stress and strain mental well-being. The pervasive and global nature of climate change can lead some people to question their purpose and existence. They may wonder why they should plan for the future if the environment is deteriorating. This can result in apathy, hopelessness, or even nihilism, which can have a significant impact on mental health. Physical health effects such as heat stress, air pollution, and other consequences of climate change can worsen physical conditions, which in turn can impact mental health. Poor health can limit a person’s ability to function normally, leading to mental health concerns. Increased aggression and violence are also to some extent the outcome of climate change. As resources such as water and land become scarcer, conflicts may arise between groups, leading to increased tension and psychological stress. Studies have shown that extreme heat can intensify aggression and violent behavior, which could further impact community well-being and mental health. A conclusion is that climate change affects mental health by triggering anxiety, stress, trauma, and existential dread. While no one is immune, those in economically disadvantaged communities and regions more vulnerable to climate impacts often experience heightened mental health challenges. The long-term solution involves not only addressing climate change itself but also ensuring psychological support for those impacted. This could also include people not living in those areas but have families that could be affected.
Reasons for Isolation in Seniors
Sujata Jayaprakash Sujata Jayaprakash Senior citizens may isolate themselves for a variety of reasons, including physical, emotional, social, and environmental factors. Isolation can have significant negative impacts on their body, mind, and spirit, as well as on their communication, social relations, and family relationships. One of the major reasons for isolation in seniors is their physical health decline.They struggle with mobility issues due to conditions like arthritis, chronic pain orfrailty which can make it difficult for them to leave home. Some seniors also suffer from respiratory issues which limit their ability to participate in social activities.The second reason is mental health conditions like depression and anxiety whichleads to lack of interest in socializing and contribute to feelings of hopelessness orfear. There may be other reasons like dementia or Alzheimer’s disease leading toWithdrawal. The third reason could be the environmental factors which include living alone.Seniors who live by themselves may have fewer opportunities for social interaction, especially if they live in isolated areas or buildings where there are not many families they could connect to. As true as the reasons are valid for isolation it has an impact on their body, mind and spirit. Isolation is associated with higher risks of chronic illnesses such as heart disease, high blood pressure and weakened immune system. They may neglect proper nutrition, leading to malnutrition or worsening of existing health conditions. Isolation also impacts their social lifestyle, and lack of social interaction often leads to a more sedentary lifestyle, increasing the risk of obesity, diabetes and other health issues. Mental and emotional well-being is also affected by isolation. It can intensify their feelings of depression and anxiety, leading to a decline in mental health. Chronic loneliness can lead to feelings of worthlessness, despair, and a reduced quality of life.Ultimately it affects their spiritual well-being as well. Isolation can lead to a loss of meaning and purpose in life, which is often tied to social roles and connections.Seniors who are isolated may feel disconnected from their religious or spiritualcommunities, impacting their spiritual well-being. Finally, isolation has an impact on family relationships. When the seniors isolatethemselves, it leads to less frequent contact with family members, resulting inweakened family bonds. Lack of regular communication can lead tomisunderstandings and emotional distance between seniors and their familymembers. Often seniors withdraw further due to feelings of being a burden, whichcan exacerbate the sense of isolation. By addressing the factors that contribute to isolation and implementing strategies to support social engagement, we can help seniors maintain their physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, as well as their relationships with family and the broader community. Let’ us “Help the Seniors” in our homes, neighborhood, society and in the larger community,