Devendra Singh Psychologist

24/05/2025

A recent poem

🌸 She Was Not Sick, She Was Suppressed 🌸

She was not sick—
She was a garden
planted in shadow,
where the sun forgot to look.
She bloomed anyway,
between concrete cracks,
her colors muted,
but never gone.

She was not broken—
She was bending,
like a willow in the storm,
whispering secrets to the wind
that no one stopped to hear.
She cried not for weakness,
but for the weight
she was too young to carry.

She was not lost—
She wandered, yes,
through mirrors that lied,
through voices that told her
she wasn't enough.
But deep in her silence,
a compass stirred—
etched in truth,
in art,
in breath.

She was not sick—
She was a soul
screaming in stillness,
her light painted over
by the brushstrokes of others.
She wore masks of smiles,
of silence,
of strength,
but her spirit longed
to dance bare-faced in the sun.

She was not empty—
She was full of stories,
inked in her diary,
dripping from her brush,
woven into dreams
where she could be free.
A healer in the making,
a phoenix not yet born,
an artist of her own becoming.

She was not fragile—
She was forged
in the fire of judgment,
yet chose gentleness,
again and again.
She was light in the underworld,
a breath among screams,
a prayer wrapped in poetry.

She was not sick—
She was suppressed.
But now—
she speaks.
She paints.
She breathes.
She rises.

🌿 And the world will learn—
That what they called weakness
was a garden waiting
for the courage to bloom.

Copyright@Devendra Singh 2025

Depression is curable! Seek help today!

05/05/2025

Social Media Post on Pahalgam, and the Suspension of a Teacher: How Emotionally Intelligent Heads Should Respond :

(By a Head Learning and Development & Psychologist)

In recent days, India mourned yet another painful tragedy—the terror attack in Pahalgam, which left our nation grieving and furious in equal measure. While most responded with solidarity and sorrow, a few voices chose a different path—provocative posts on social media that appeared to belittle the loss or question the narrative.

Among these was a teacher's post that triggered institutional backlash. In Lucknow, the Vice-Chancellor of a reputed university promptly issued a show cause notice to a faculty member. In Varanasi, another teacher faced suspension for a similarly controversial comment. Both actions were swift, decisive—and perhaps necessary in the eyes of the public.

But here’s the real question we must ask as educational leaders:

Is punishment the only path, or should we lead with emotional intelligence in moments like these?

🎯 The Dilemma of Institutional Heads
As heads of institutions, we carry the dual responsibility of upholding institutional values and protecting the emotional safety of our academic communities. At the same time, we must remain fair, reflective, and emotionally intelligent—even when the pressure to act punitively is immense.

A teacher's personal social media post, especially in the context of national grief, carries consequences. But our response must be more than a reaction—it must be a considered response that educates, restores, and sets a precedent for dignity.

🧠 What Emotional Intelligence Looks Like in Action
1. Pause Before Action
Emotionally intelligent leaders first regulate their own emotions. Instead of reacting out of outrage or fear of reputational harm, they seek to understand before acting.

“What was the intention behind the post? Was it ignorance, immaturity, or malice?”

2. Engage in Dialogue
Before serving a notice, consider initiating a private, respectful conversation. This allows the teacher an opportunity to reflect, explain, and—if warranted—apologize.

“Do you understand how your words impacted grieving students or staff?”

3. Differentiate Intent from Impact
While the post may have caused hurt, it’s essential to discern whether it was malicious or misguided. Emotional intelligence doesn’t excuse poor judgment—it adds nuance to accountability.

4. Use the Moment to Educate
This could be a moment to introduce ethics workshops, social media guidelines, or reflection circles within the faculty. Leadership is not just about discipline; it’s about creating teachable moments.

5. Act Fairly, Not Hastily
If disciplinary action is required, ensure due process, transparency, and consistency. Follow university statutes and legal frameworks—not public sentiment alone.

🏫 The Larger Role of Educational Institutions
Universities and colleges are not just academic spaces—they are emotional ecosystems. A teacher’s public misstep may reflect poor judgment, but an institution's response reflects its culture, maturity, and ethical grounding.

In the current climate of political polarization and social media outrage, educational leaders must rise above impulsive decisions. We must model courageous calm, not complicit silence or performative outrage.

🙌 In Conclusion
Let us remember:

“When a teacher misuses their voice, it must be corrected. But when a head misuses their power, it undermines the very soul of education.”

Responding to controversy with emotional intelligence is not weakness—it is wise, responsible leadership. Let us lead not just with policies, but with presence. Not just with notices, but with nuanced wisdom.

This post is dedicated to all educators navigating complex times—and all leaders who choose compassion over chaos, dialogue over decree, and growth over grievance.

Reach out for customised training programs, FDP and counselling sessions for your institute.
Devendra Singh

29/04/2025

Understanding Bipolar II Disorder Among Young Women in Sikkim, India: Challenges and Management

Bipolar II Disorder (BPAD-II) is a complex mood disorder characterized by episodes of depression and hypomania. Among young women in Sikkim, India, the recognition and management of BPAD-II present unique challenges due to cultural, diagnostic, and systemic factors. This article explores the signs and symptoms, neurobiological underpinnings, diagnostic difficulties, common misdiagnoses, and effective management strategies for BPAD-II, emphasizing the importance of a multidisciplinary approach.​

Signs and Symptoms of Bipolar II Disorder

BPAD-II is marked by recurrent depressive episodes and at least one episode of hypomania. Depressive episodes often include persistent sadness, fatigue, changes in appetite or sleep, and feelings of worthlessness. Hypomanic episodes are characterized by elevated mood, increased activity or energy, and sometimes irritability, but are less severe than the manic episodes seen in Bipolar I Disorder. These hypomanic episodes may not cause significant impairment, making them harder to detect. ​

Neurobiology and Risk Factors

The neurobiology of BPAD-II involves genetic predispositions and structural brain differences. Environmental factors, such as trauma and chronic stress, also play a significant role. In Sikkim, young women may face unique stressors, including societal expectations and limited access to mental health resources, which can contribute to the onset and progression of BPAD-II.​

Causes of Bipolar Disorder in Women

The exact scientific causes of bipolar disorder are still not very well understood, but researchers believe it may be related to neurotransmitters (chemical messengers) in the brain and other brain activity.
Bipolar disorder is also closely linked to genetics (traits passed down from generation to generation), and people with a biological family member who has bipolar disorder are at a higher risk of developing bipolar disorder themselves.
Environmental factors can also play a part in the onset of the condition, like extreme stress or traumatic life events. Changes in sleep patterns, hormonal balance, substance use, medication, or significant changes in physical activity can also impact the onset of bipolar disorder.
Periods of significant hormonal change, like menstrual cycles, pregnancy, menopause, and postpartum, are all times when women are at risk of having extreme symptoms of bipolar disorder. Pregnancy can make women especially vulnerable because some bipolar medications are not compatible with pregnancy.
In addition, women with bipolar disorder are more likely to have mood changes around seasons (a type of seasonal affective disorder) and are more likely to have co-occurring mental health issues related to their bipolar disorder than men with the same diagnosis.

Challenges in Diagnosis

Diagnosing BPAD-II is particularly challenging because its depressive episodes are often indistinguishable from Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). Hypomanic episodes may be overlooked or misinterpreted, leading to misdiagnosis. In regions like Sikkim, limited mental health awareness and resources further complicate accurate diagnosis. ​

Misdiagnosis as Major Depressive Disorder

BPAD-II is frequently misdiagnosed as MDD, especially when hypomanic episodes are not reported or recognized. This misdiagnosis can lead to inappropriate treatment with antidepressants alone, which may trigger hypomanic or manic episodes and rapid cycling, worsening the patient's condition. ​

Bridges to Recovery

Importance of Accurate Diagnosis

Accurate diagnosis of BPAD-II is crucial for effective treatment. Proper identification allows for the implementation of mood stabilizers and tailored psychotherapeutic interventions, reducing the risk of mood episode recurrence and improving overall functioning. Early and correct diagnosis is associated with better long-term outcomes and quality of life. ​

Management Strategies: Medication and Psychotherapy

Effective management of BPAD-II involves a combination of pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy.​
Pharmacotherapy: Mood stabilizers like lithium and anticonvulsants such as lamotrigine are commonly used. Atypical antipsychotics may also be prescribed. Antidepressants are used cautiously and typically in combination with mood stabilizers to prevent triggering hypomanic episodes.​
Psychotherapy: Several evidence-based psychotherapies have proven effective:​
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps patients identify and modify negative thought patterns and behaviors, manage symptoms, and prevent relapse. ​
Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT): Focuses on stabilizing daily routines and improving interpersonal relationships to reduce mood episode recurrence. ​
Family-Focused Therapy (FFT): Involves family members in treatment to improve communication, reduce stress, and support the patient's management of the disorder. ​
Psychoeducation: Educates patients and families about BPAD-II, enhancing understanding and adherence to treatment plans. ​
The Role of Psychiatrists and Psychologists
A multidisciplinary approach is essential in managing BPAD-II:​
Psychiatrists: Responsible for diagnosing the disorder and managing pharmacological treatments.​
Psychologists: Provide psychotherapeutic interventions, helping patients develop coping strategies and address behavioral aspects of the disorder.​
Collaboration between these professionals ensures comprehensive care, addressing both the biological and psychological components of BPAD-II.​

Conclusion
BPAD-II among young women in Sikkim is a significant mental health concern that requires increased awareness, accurate diagnosis, and comprehensive treatment strategies. By integrating pharmacotherapy with evidence-based psychotherapies and fostering collaboration between psychiatrists and psychologists, healthcare providers can improve outcomes for affected individuals. Enhancing mental health infrastructure and education in regions like Sikkim is vital to address the unique challenges faced by this population.

Reach out for therapy and support for Bipolar Affective DIsorder today. Contact Devendra Singh, mob no 9005880231 youtube @ healwithdrdv

15/03/2025

Is Drinking Alcohol Linked To Criminal Propensity: Understanding the Connection

As Holi approaches, a lot of people contact mental health professionals for emergency management of their family member who has a history of aggression, alcohol addiction, anxiety, insomnia, liver cirrhosis, violence, etc. The link between alcohol consumption and criminal propensity is well-established, and understanding this connection is crucial in addressing the rising cases of substance-induced violence and crime.

# # Understanding Criminal Propensity
Criminal propensity refers to an individual's likelihood of engaging in criminal behavior. It is influenced by genetic, environmental, psychological, and social factors. While many people associate crime with offenses against others, crimes against oneself—such as self-harm, su***de, or substance abuse—are also manifestations of criminal propensity.

A criminal is traditionally defined as someone who violates the law, but from a psychological perspective, criminal behavior includes acts of violence, impulsivity, and disregard for consequences, which may be directed at oneself or others. This broad definition encompasses individuals who commit acts of self-destruction alongside those who harm others.

# # The Role of Personality in Criminal Behavior
The NEO Personality Inventory (NEOPI) is a psychological assessment tool that evaluates the five major domains of personality—Neuroticism, Extraversion, Openness to Experience, Agreeableness, and Conscientiousness. Studies suggest that certain personality traits, such as high neuroticism, low agreeableness, and low conscientiousness, are linked to criminal propensity.

Personality disorders, including antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) and borderline personality disorder (BPD), have been strongly associated with criminal behavior. Individuals with ASPD, for example, exhibit a lack of remorse, impulsivity, and aggression—traits that contribute to criminal acts. Treating personality disorders remains a challenge, as these individuals often lack insight into their behavior and may resist therapeutic interventions.

# # Alcohol’s Impact on the Brain and Behavior
Alcohol significantly alters brain function, leading to a loss of inhibition, impulsivity, and emotional dysregulation. One of the major consequences of chronic alcohol abuse is gliosis—a pathological condition characterized by scarring in the brain. This process affects critical areas such as:

- **Prefrontal Cortex**: Responsible for impulse control, judgment, and decision-making. Damage here leads to poor impulse regulation and reckless behavior.
- **Amygdala**: Governs emotional regulation and aggression. Alcohol-induced gliosis here can result in heightened aggression and violent outbursts.
- **Hippocampus**: Associated with memory and learning. Alcohol-related damage to this area impairs the ability to process consequences, leading to repeated reckless behavior.

In the initial stages of alcohol addiction, fear and self-awareness may act as deterrents to extreme criminal behaviors. However, as addiction progresses, individuals develop alcohol-induced liver damage, including cirrhosis, which further impacts brain function. Interestingly, those who recover from liver cirrhosis often experience a temporary surge in confidence, which may paradoxically make them more susceptible to reckless behavior.

# # Social Consequences of Alcohol Abuse
Chronic alcohol abuse leads to impulsivity, emotional outbursts, and violent behavior, often resulting in fights within families and increased domestic violence. Additionally, su***de ideation is significantly higher in individuals suffering from alcohol dependency, as the substance impairs rational thinking and enhances depressive tendencies.

# # Effective Treatment Approaches
To address the underlying issues of alcohol addiction and criminal propensity, the following psychological interventions are beneficial:

1. **Motivational Interviewing (MI)**: This counseling approach enhances an individual's motivation to change their behavior by resolving ambivalence and setting goals.
2. **Mindfulness-Based Interventions**: By fostering self-awareness and emotional regulation, mindfulness helps individuals gain control over impulsive behaviors.
3. **Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)**: This therapy focuses on helping individuals accept difficult emotions and commit to positive behavioral changes instead of resorting to avoidance or substance use.

# # Brain Atrophy and Criminal Behavior Across Age Groups
Prolonged alcohol abuse results in brain atrophy, a condition where brain tissue shrinks due to neuronal loss. This phenomenon is seen across age groups, from adolescents to older adults, and contributes to increased criminal behaviors. Signs of brain atrophy include:
- Memory impairment
- Poor decision-making abilities
- Increased aggression
- Emotional instability

Adolescents, in particular, are at high risk due to their developing brains. Alcohol consumption at an early age significantly increases the likelihood of future criminal behavior, making prevention critical. Parents and educators must discourage underage drinking and educate young individuals on its long-term consequences.

# # The Role of Psychiatrists and Addiction Psychologists
While general physicians can manage withdrawal symptoms, only psychiatrists and addiction psychologists specialize in treating the underlying psychological triggers and co-occurring mental health conditions. Comprehensive recovery involves:
- Structured detoxification
- Cognitive and behavioral therapies
- Continuous relapse prevention strategies

# # Ensuring Complete Recovery and Preventing Relapse
The key to lasting recovery lies in:
- Identifying triggers and developing coping mechanisms
- Engaging in long-term therapy and support groups
- Creating a stable and supportive environment

# # Conclusion
Alcohol addiction is a major contributing factor to criminal propensity, affecting individuals across all age groups. Understanding the neurobiological and psychological impacts of alcohol on behavior can help in implementing effective prevention and intervention strategies. As Holi and other festivities approach, ensuring responsible alcohol consumption and seeking timely help for those struggling with addiction can prevent many tragic consequences.

Seek Help Today!
Devendra Singh

27/10/2024

Interview of Marion Woodman Canadian analytical psychologist.
QUESTION :
What does it mean to be addicted?
MARION :
Addicted individuals are being driven by an inner energy toward a particular object be it alcohol, food, drugs, money or another person. This object is a substitute for something that remains unknown to them; the object is actually the presence of something absent the presence of an absence.
So the more they have, the more they need; the more filled they become, the emptier they feel. Addiction is desire without its true object.
QUESTION :
How do you account for this haunting sense of absence?
MARION:
In both the East and the West, there is a deeply rooted desire or need to transcend who we are. Some higher power, some God, finds us unacceptable as we are.
We've spent several thousand years learning the arts of self-transcendence. Built into that self-transcendence is a search for the Absolute.
We feel ourselves morally obliged to search for this Absolute and to make our lives answerable to it. Heroes in fairy tales, Arthur's Knights of the Round Table, and now space heroes search for it. "May the Force be with you" is their benediction as they lift off to never-never land.
Addictions are based on a longing for presence. Addicts somehow believe they can live in the presence of perfection, perfect body, the perfect man or woman, the perfect nirvana.

Addictions aren't just an escape from something intolerable. They're archetypally based on the search for perfection, for the Sun God, for the Holy Grail. Most people believe that any person worth his or her salt will go on this search.

15/10/2024

Words of wisdom from one of the greatest man in India, honourable Chief Justice of India, Sri Chandrachur Singh!

My daughters transformed how I see the world: CJI DY Chandrachud.Brut India is the fastest-growing digital video publisher in the country. We're a young, ind...

10/10/2024

World Mental Health Day 2024: Theme : It is time to prioritize mental health at the workplace

10/10/2024

10/10/2024

Remembering my God Mother Padma Shri Dr.A.D.Engineer (10th Oct 1915- 10-Apr-1988) on her birth anniversary today.

Padma Shri Dr. (Miss) Amy Dhunjibhoy Engineer was born in Bombay on lOth October, 1915. She left for heavenly
abode on lOth April, 1988 in King George
Medical College, Lucknow. She was
Emeritus Professor, Obstetrics & Gynaecology and Officer Incharge, Human Reproduction, Research Centre, (ICMR),
K.G. Medical College, Lucknow. She did M.B.B.S. in 1939, M.D. 1943,
M.R..C.O.G. (London) in 1951 and
F.R.C.S. (Endin) 1952. She was granted
F.R.C.O.G. (London) 1955 and F.A.M.S.
(India) 1977. She was awarded B. C.
Roy Award for being good teacher in
Obstetrics and Gynaecology in 1974 and
1976 she was crowned with PADMA
SHRI National Award.
After obtaining M.B.B.S. Degree,
1939, she was first appointed as Resident
in G._neral Surgery and Med1cine at J.J.
Group of Hospitals, Bombay and in
Obstetrics & Gynaecology at Cama and
Albless Hospitals from April, 1939 to
December, 1944. She worked as Reader,
Obstetrics & Gynaecology for four years
in Medical Colleges of Lucknow and
Agra from 1945, then as Professor and
Head of Department of Obstetrics and
Gynaecology from 1st Dec.ember, 1949 to
28th February, 1953 at S.N'. Medical College, Agra and from 1st March, 1953 to
30th April, 1976 at King George Medical
College, Lucknow.
She showed her special interest in the
field of Contraception, M.C.H., Cytology
and problems of reproductive physiology.
She worked keenly in collaboration with
the Indian Council of Medical Research,
Delhi and with the staff of Central DruResearch Institute, Lucknow s.nce 19;.8
to date.
Since 1961 to date she was a member
and advisor of many Committees formed
by the Government of India on various
aspects of Family Planning Programme.
She kept her life fully devoted to the
Family Welfare Programme & I.C.M.R.
She was member of Northern Zone Re·
ference Committee of R,oyal College of
Obstetrics on several occasions. She was
appointed Expert Advisor tO' the Union
Public Service Commission and Inspector
on behalf of the Medical Council of India
for Undergraduate and Post-graduate
Examinations at Bombay, Delhi, Poona,
Trivendrum, Baroda, Ahmedabad,
·.
Ranchi, Jaipur, :Calcutta and Hyderabad.
She attended meetings of W.H.O. and
various other International Conferences
held from time to time. Late D~. Engineer
was also a good orator and addressed
many Associations and Societies in India
in Obstetrics & Gynaecological field.
About 70 papers of late Dr. Engineer
had been published in National and International Journals. She was also member
of many a learned societies in India,
Edinburgh and London.
She was in the real sense a sezker
after truth and contributed a lot, by her
devotion and sacrifice, in the field of
medical scien

02/10/2024

My Latest Article: "Sat Chit Ananda is Happiness" – A Reflection on Hindu Philosophy and Lord Krishna

Introduction
In Hindu philosophy, the concept of "Sat Chit Ananda" (सत्-चित्-आनन्द) is a profound representation of the ultimate experience of true happiness and bliss. This triad—often translated as "Existence, Consciousness, and Bliss"—describes the nature of Brahman, the supreme reality in Vedanta. It also captures the essence of spiritual awakening and the path to self-realization. Connecting this to Lord Krishna, particularly through the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, we find that "Sat Chit Ananda" is not only a philosophical abstraction but also a practical framework for leading a life of happiness through devotion, knowledge, and selfless action.

Sat Chit Ananda: A Philosophical Breakdown
Sat (Existence):
Sat refers to the eternal and unchanging reality that pervades the universe. It is the foundation of all existence, representing that which is indestructible and timeless. In the material world, everything is subject to change and decay, but Sat remains constant. From a metaphysical perspective, it represents the essential truth of being, the ultimate "isness."

Chit (Consciousness):
Chit represents pure consciousness or awareness. It is the force that illuminates the world and gives meaning to existence. In Vedanta, Chit is not simply intellectual understanding but a deep, intuitive awareness that transcends the ego. This consciousness is not bound by the limitations of individual identity but is universal, connecting all beings.

Ananda (Bliss):
Ananda is often equated with happiness, but it refers to a state of boundless joy that arises from realizing one's unity with Brahman, the absolute. It is not dependent on external circumstances, material possessions, or sensory experiences. Instead, it is an inner state of peace and contentment that flows naturally from spiritual realization.

Lord Krishna and the Path to Sat Chit Ananda

Lord Krishna, as depicted in the Bhagavad Gita, serves as both the embodiment and teacher of Sat Chit Ananda. His teachings offer a guide to achieving this blissful state by aligning one's life with spiritual truths.

Sat and Dharma (Righteous Duty):

Krishna emphasizes the importance of living in alignment with one's dharma, or righteous duty. This sense of moral and ethical responsibility ensures that one is living in harmony with the eternal laws of the universe, which are reflective of Sat, the immutable truth. When Arjuna hesitates to fight in the Kurukshetra war, Krishna reminds him that life itself is a manifestation of the eternal truth, and that action, when done in the spirit of duty, aligns one with this eternal reality.

Chit and Self-Realization:

Krishna teaches that the path to true knowledge (Jnana Yoga) is through self-realization, which is directly linked to Chit, or consciousness. He tells Arjuna that true knowledge is not merely academic but a deep understanding of the self as part of the eternal consciousness. By realizing the eternal nature of the self (Atman), one transcends the dualities of pleasure and pain, gain and loss, and thus attains a state of equanimity and peace.

Ananda through Devotion and Love (Bhakti Yoga):

The culmination of Krishna’s teachings is found in Bhakti Yoga, the path of devotion. Krishna explains that through unconditional love and devotion to the Divine, one can experience the ultimate bliss of union with God. This devotion transforms individual ego and desires into a connection with the universal consciousness. By surrendering to Krishna, as a representation of the Divine, one experiences Ananda, a joy that is unaffected by the transient nature of the material world.

Sat Chit Ananda and the Pursuit of Happiness

In modern times, happiness is often sought in external achievements—success, wealth, relationships, and possessions. However, these sources of happiness are fleeting, as they depend on conditions that are subject to change. Hindu philosophy, through the lens of Sat Chit Ananda, offers a different approach: happiness is the natural state of the soul, uncovered through the realization of one's eternal nature, awareness, and divine connection.

Krishna’s life and teachings show us that true happiness is not found in worldly attachments or ego-driven actions but in the selfless devotion to a higher purpose and the understanding of our oneness with the universal consciousness. This aligns with the core of Hindu teachings, where liberation (moksha) is the ultimate goal, representing freedom from the cycle of birth and death and the attainment of eternal bliss.

Conclusion

The concept of Sat Chit Ananda encapsulates the essence of true happiness in Hindu philosophy. It speaks to the eternal, conscious, and blissful nature of the self that lies beyond the temporary and often illusory experiences of the material world. Lord Krishna, through his teachings in the Bhagavad Gita, offers practical guidance on how to realize this state through right action, self-awareness, and devotion. For those on the spiritual path, understanding and embodying Sat Chit Ananda is not just the key to happiness but to liberation itself.

11/09/2024

Hi,
Are you struggling with symptoms of stress such as fear, anxiety, flashbacks or nightmares after an accident, breakup, death of a loved one, landslide, or the recent GLOF disaster in Sikkim? If your answer is Yes, then this video is for YOU!

Learn how to calm your mind & body. Pls subscribe to my YouTube channel and share this video with someone who suffers from stress.

Heal Acute Stress Disorder In Sikkim This video is designed to help those affected by the tragic GLOF disaster in Sikkim on October 4th, 2023. ...

06/09/2024

How to Heal Your Trauma (Sadma). Watch to learn a very effective technique

Healing Your Fear, Anxiety And Trauma: Your Guide To Stress Relief . For ...