Dr Ashishji, How can society better support senior citizens who are struggling with mental health issues?

Ans: Hi seeker! In my opinion, age has nothing to do with expectations. You need to decide for yourself what expectations you should have and from whom. But age is not the measure to decide anything whatsoever.

Ans: Dear Anonymous,
He seems to want to live in a place of alternate reality where the real life is wilfully blurred and a fantasy world plays out easily. This happens when the real world facts disturb him and stress him and escaping into that alternate reality feels reassuring and calming.
This can be addressed by setting up an appointment with a Clinical Psychologist who is skilled to work with teenagers. She/he will use various techniques to ease your son into the real world. Kindly act NOW. In the meantime, surround him with a lot of love and affection.
All the best!

Ans: Dear Anonymous,
I can only imagine the unrest that you feel right now.
But this mind state is something that you can come out of by changing your mindset to only focusing on the better things happening to you.
If medicines have been prescribed, you can also look at some long-term therapy that can support your day to day thinking and behaviour. Medicines taken with alternate therapies to support healing/recovery is known to have better results. I would suggest that you see your doctor and ask him/her about this. Try this first before you explore ashrams with free treatment etc. What kind of treatment and what quality of doctors is something that may never be known! Do not experiment as you have a history of struggling with your mind state. So, please stick to what is being told and add therapy to it.
Also,
- Spend time a lot in Nature
- Filter what you see, hear or read on social media and media
- Be with people who are generally positive
- Meditate (Yoga experts can guide you on this)
- Cut down on foods that bring your mind state to a low
- Exercise everyday at least for 40 minutes
- Laugh for no reason

Learn to accept life AS IT IS and live in the MOMENT. It is known to ease the symptoms leading to depression. Having said this, continue with your medication as my suggestions are not a substitute for medicines. Kindly check with your doctor who will guide you correctly.

Life is beautiful and it can be if you choose to see it that way!

All the best and I hope you get better soon!

Ans: I'm truly sorry to hear about the challenging situation you and your family are facing. Caring for an adult child with complex medical and mental health issues can be incredibly difficult, especially when considering the future when you may not be there to provide support. Here are some steps you can take to plan for your son's care:

Consult with Professionals: Seek the advice of medical professionals, including your son's treating physicians and mental health providers. They can provide guidance on his current treatment plan and any potential long-term care needs.
Legal and Financial Planning: Consult with an attorney who specializes in elder law or disability law to help you establish the necessary legal documents and financial arrangements. This may include setting up a special needs trust, appointing a guardian, and creating a will that outlines your son's care and financial support after your passing.
Identify Caregivers: While you mentioned that there are no relatives or friends willing to take care of your son, it's essential to continue exploring potential options. You might consider reaching out to local support groups for parents of children with disabilities or mental health issues to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.
Government Assistance: Research government programs and benefits available to individuals with disabilities
Care Facilities: Investigate residential care facilities and group homes that specialize in providing care for adults with disabilities. Some facilities offer long-term care options that can provide a stable and supportive environment for your son.
Support Services: Look for local agencies and nonprofit organizations that offer support services for individuals with mental health issues and disabilities. They may provide assistance with housing, employment, and daily living skills.
Include Your Son in Planning: To the extent possible, involve your son in discussions about his future care and living arrangements. His input and preferences should be considered in the planning process.
Create a Support Network: Engage with local and online support communities for parents and caregivers of individuals with mental health and disability challenges. Connecting with others who have faced similar situations can provide valuable advice and emotional support.
Continuity of Care: Ensure that all essential medical and psychiatric records are well-documented and easily accessible for future caregivers. This will help provide a seamless transition in case of any changes in care providers.
Regular Updates: As your son's condition may change over time, it's crucial to periodically review and update your plans and arrangements to adapt to his evolving needs.
Remember that you are not alone in facing these challenges, and there are resources and professionals available to help you navigate this difficult journey. Seek guidance from experts and reach out to local disability organizations to explore available support and options for your son's future care.

Ans: Dear Shubham,
- Exercise for at least 40 mins at least 4 times a week
- Get a bit of sun exposure (avoid 11 am to 4 pm) every day
- Choose your social circle wisely
- Journal your thoughts or experiences of the day
- Make a playlist for peppy songs to play on a loop
- Watch content on OTT platforms that uplifts you
- Spend time in silence at least for 30 mins every day
- Spend time with pets (if you love that) and/or with Nature
- Indulge in what you love to do every day for at least 20 mins

All the best!