Dr. Abhishek Pathak, leading psychiatrist in Lucknow, shares insights on anxiety, depression, and stress. Learn why mental health matters and how treatment can help.
Anxiety, Depression, Stress… These Aren’t Just Moods – They’re Real Conditions That Deserve Care
Mental health is often misunderstood. While physical ailments are met with empathy and immediate attention, emotional struggles like anxiety, depression, and stress are often minimized or dismissed with statements like “It’s just a phase” or “You’ll be fine.” But these are not simply passing moods. They are real medical conditions that can deeply affect a person’s life, relationships, and overall well-being.
I’m Dr. Abhishek Pathak, a psychiatrist based in Lucknow, and I want you to know: mental health is just as important as physical health. And more importantly — you don’t have to face it alone.
Understanding the Reality of Mental Health Conditions
Let’s start by clearing a common misconception: feeling sad or worried isn’t the same as having depression or anxiety.
- Anxiety is not just being nervous before an exam or meeting. It’s an ongoing feeling of fear, restlessness, or worry that may not go away — even when there’s no clear reason.
- Depression is not just feeling low for a few days. It’s a persistent sense of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in things you once enjoyed. It affects sleep, appetite, concentration, and motivation.
- Stress is not always “motivating pressure.” Chronic stress can harm your body, lead to burnout, and affect your emotional and physical health.
These are serious conditions that affect your brain chemistry, your thoughts, your ability to function, and your body itself.
The Stigma Must End
Unfortunately, stigma still surrounds mental health — especially in India. People often hesitate to seek help due to fear of judgment, family pressure, or cultural misconceptions.
Some common myths include:
- “Talking about mental health is a sign of weakness.”
- “Only mad people go to psychiatrists.”
- “You should be able to control your feelings on your own.”
These beliefs are harmful and outdated. Mental health issues are not signs of weakness — they’re signs that you’re human. And like any illness, they deserve professional attention and compassion.
You Are Not Alone — And Help Is Available
The good news is: help is available, effective, and accessible.
At my practice in Lucknow, I offer a range of mental health services tailored to individual needs, including:
- Psychiatric Evaluation & Diagnosis
A detailed assessment to understand your emotional health, symptoms, and challenges. - Therapy & Counselling
Professional, evidence-based therapy approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy, and supportive counselling. - Medication Management
In cases where necessary, medication can help balance brain chemistry and ease symptoms, especially when used alongside therapy. - Stress Management Techniques
Tools like mindfulness, relaxation strategies, and lifestyle modifications to help reduce and manage stress effectively.
No two patients are alike — and no treatment is one-size-fits-all. Together, we build a personalized treatment plan that respects your needs, values, and goals.
Taking the First Step
If you’re reading this and thinking, “I might need help, but I’m scared,” let me reassure you: there’s no shame in reaching out.
Just like you’d see a doctor for diabetes or a broken bone, seeking help for anxiety or depression is the smart, responsible, and healthy thing to do.
Signs you or a loved one may need help:
- Persistent sadness or worry
- Irritability or anger without clear cause
- Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
- Fatigue or low energy
- Difficulty concentrating
- Withdrawal from social life
- Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
Even if your symptoms don’t match every point on this list — if something doesn’t feel right, listen to your inner voice. That is your signal to seek care.
Mental Health Is Health
The mind and body are deeply connected. Chronic mental health conditions can lead to physical symptoms such as headaches, digestive issues, heart problems, and weakened immunity. Ignoring mental health can worsen physical illnesses — and vice versa.
On the other hand, improving your mental health can boost your:
- Physical energy and vitality
- Immune system
- Productivity and focus
- Relationships
- Quality of life
Taking care of your emotional health is not a luxury — it’s a necessity.
Let’s Heal, Together
As a psychiatrist, I’ve seen lives change. I’ve seen people go from hopelessness to purpose, from fear to strength. All it takes is that first step — reaching out.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, don’t wait. The earlier you seek help, the better the outcomes.
Let’s break the stigma. Let’s talk openly about mental health. Let’s support one another. Let’s heal, together.
Book an Appointment Today
Top Psychiatrist in Lucknow
Specializing in anxiety, depression, stress disorders, and holistic mental health care.
Call: 096868 75471
Location: MANSAROVAR, NM JOSHI Bhavan Type D, 4/656 Vijayant Khand, Gomti Nagar, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh 226010
Website: www.drabhishekpathak.com
Because you matter — and your mind deserves care, too.