The Battle Within: Conquer it with Mental Strength

By Dr. Amresh Shrivastava

The Battle Within" is a thought-provoking book by Dr. Srivastava that delves into the psychological problems people face in their everyday struggles. In this insightful work, Dr. Srivastava explores the complexities of the human mind and offers valuable perspectives on understanding and overcoming psychological challenges.

 "The Battl

• Language: English
• Publisher: Clever Fox Publishing
• Release date: Sep 10, 2023
• ISBN: 9789356484047

Book preview

The Battle Within

Conquer it with Mental Strength

Dr. Amresh Shrivastava

MD.DPM.FRCPsych.FAPA

Psychiatrist

Clever Fox Publishing

Copyright © 2023 Dr. Amresh Shrivastava

All rights reserved

Paperback: ISBN: 978-93-56484-04-7

Hardback: ISBN: 978-93-56489-43-1

This book has been published with all reasonable efforts taken to make the material error-free after the consent of the author. No part of this book shall be used, reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission from the author, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews.

The Author of this book is solely responsible and liable for its content including but not limited to the views, representations, descriptions, statements, information, opinions and references [Content]. The Content of this book shall not constitute or be construed or deemed to reflect the opinion or expression of the Publisher or Editor. Neither the Publisher nor Editor endorse or approve the Content of this book or guarantee the reliability, accuracy or completeness of the Content published herein and do not make any representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, including but not limited to the implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose. The Publisher and Editor shall not be liable whatsoever for any errors, omissions, whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or any other cause or claims for loss or damages of any kind, including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage arising out of use, inability to use, or about the reliability, accuracy or sufficiency of the information contained in this book.

That all names, stories and their backdrop is fictional and has no relevance to any person , any similarity with any one is a matter of coincidence.

We thankfully acknowledge editorial support by Siddhansh Shrivastava MD.

Contents

Title Page

Copyright

Declaration

Preface

Motherhood & Mental Health

the story of Radhika

Radhika’s Vulnerability and Psychological determinants for behaviour

Mental strength : the concept of mental strength and methods to improve it

Resilience

Psychological virtues and strengths

References

Declaration

The content of this book is not a medical or legal document. In this book every person’s name in each story and the identifying information, including personal, social, clinical and treatment related details have been changed. The stories are blinded for protection of privacy and confidentiality. This book is not in- tended for any direct or indirect advice for any clinical situation or any person with or without mental disorder. The information contained in this book are neither an advice nor a substitute for any medical opinion of physicians or mental health professional. The reader should always consult a physician for matters relating to his or her health, and particularly with respect to any symptom that may require immediate attention, investigation, diagnosis and treatment. The book is written to create awareness, dissemi- nate information and impart education in the field of mental health.

The content of the book does not mean to refer or pass any judgment, be discriminatory, have prejudice or cause any emo- tional or psychological trauma or damage to any patient, their families, caregivers and treatment teams. Any resemblance to de- mographic, history, social situations, illness, diagnosis, treatment and consequences of illnesses or treatment discussed in the book is merely coincidental.

Preface

The Battle Within - Embracing Mental Strength for a Fulfilling Life

In a world where the complexities of daily life often challenge our mental well-being, it has become imperative to embark on a journey of self-discovery and understanding. This book, The Battle Within, is a comprehensive guide on mental health that aims to shed light on the intricacies of our psychological landscape, addressing general psychological problems, and introducing the concept of mental strength and methods to enhance it.

Mental health is an integral part of our overall well-being, influencing how we perceive the world, interact with others, and face life’s inevitable adversities. The chapters of this book delve into the common psychological issues that many individuals encounter throughout their lives.

In our fast-paced and interconnected world, the human experience is an intricate tapestry woven with both joys and challenges. Every day, individuals navigate through various life problems, which can manifest in the form of psychological symptoms. These symptoms, often subtle and nuanced, can affect our mental well-being and emotional resilience. This commentary aims to shed light on the profound impact of daily life problems on our psychological state and emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and addressing these issues for better mental health.

Daily life difficulties are a common occurrence in the lives of many individuals, ranging from minor issues to significant challenges that can impact their overall well-being. Managing these difficulties can be a daunting task, and it is important to understand the challenges that individuals face when dealing with them.

Mental health problems reflect social problems, whether an individual feels it, or an entire community feels it. On many occasions and in several places, the origin of such problems is not embedded in unfortunate events like illness, economy, property or landholding or any other similar factor but is directly rooted in human attitudes, bias, discrimination, vengeance, and so on.

While some psychological symptoms may be apparent, such as feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or sad, there are many invisible struggles that individuals face daily. It could be the pressure to meet high expectations at work, cope with relationship conflicts, or manage the constant demands of modern life. These stressors can manifest in physical symptoms like headaches, digestive problems, or sleep disturbances, further highlighting the interconnectedness of mind and body.

Left unaddressed, daily life problems can escalate emotional turmoil, leading to more pronounced psychological symptoms. What might start as occasional stress may morph into chronic anxiety or depression. The inability to cope effectively with daily challenges can also impact self-esteem, making individuals feel inadequate or unworthy, further amplifying psychological distress. One crucial aspect of daily life problems is their cumulative effect. Individually, these problems might seem trivial, but as they pile up, they can overwhelm individuals and significantly impact their mental health. The burden of daily stressors can accumulate over time, leading to emotional exhaustion and reduced capacity to cope with additional challenges.

An unfortunate consequence of downplaying daily life problems is the normalization of psychological symptoms. Society often expects individuals to handle their issues independently, and seeking help for emotional struggles is stigmatized. This perpetuates a culture of silence, discouraging people from seeking support, even when they are in dire need.

Emotional distress, lack of support, financial strain, lack of time, lack of resources, health issues, lack of motivation, and fear of change are just some of the challenges that individuals face when managing their difficulties. It is essential to understand these challenges and take steps to address them effectively. Seeking support from family, friends, or a mental health professional can help manage daily life difficulties effectively. With the right support and resources, individuals can learn to manage their daily life difficulties and improve their overall well-being.Recognizing and addressing daily life problems is crucial for maintaining good mental health. Practicing self-care is essential in this process. Engaging in activities that bring joy, setting boundaries, and prioritizing emotional well-being can all contribute to better coping with life’s challenges.

Dealing with the challenges of daily life can be emotionally taxing and can result in various types of distress, such as stress, anxiety, depression, and frustration. Emotional distress can impact an individual’s overall well-being and make it challenging to handle daily life difficulties effectively. One of the significant obstacles in managing daily life difficulties is the lack of social support. Many individuals may not have a support system to help them navigate their challenges, which can make it harder to manage their difficulties effectively.

Financial strain is another significant challenge that can make it difficult to manage daily life difficulties. Financial stress can create difficulty in managing daily expenses, leading to further challenges. Lack of time is another issue that many individuals face when managing daily life difficulties. With busy schedules, it can be challenging to find the time to address difficulties effectively, leading to more stress and anxiety. Some individuals may also lack the necessary resources to manage daily life difficulties, such as access to healthcare, transportation, or technology. This can make it challenging to find solutions and may lead to further difficulties. Health issues can also make it difficult to manage daily life challenges effectively. Chronic health conditions can make it challenging to complete daily tasks and lead to additional stress and anxiety. Lack of motivation can also be a hindrance in managing daily life difficulties. This can make it challenging to take the necessary steps to address difficulties and may result in further challenges. Finally, fear of change is another challenge that individuals face in managing daily life difficulties. Fear of change can prevent individuals from acting, leading to further difficulties.

External obstacles can certainly be dramatic and challenging, but it’s important to recognize that internal factors also play a significant role in how we approach and overcome these obstacles. Without a strong foundation of psychological capital, it can be difficult to even begin addressing external challenges, let alone achieve success in doing so. One important factor in how we respond to obstacles is our personality type. Everyone’s personality is unique and reflects the color and signature of their life experiences. While some aspects of our personality may be consistent, other traits may only become apparent in response to certain situations or stimuli. Our emotional response to obstacles is another important factor to consider. How we feel about the challenges we face can greatly influence our ability to overcome them. It’s important to recognize and acknowledge our emotions while also developing healthy coping strategies to manage them. It’s also important to recognize that there may be consequences to how we respond to external challenges. Sometimes our responses can lead to an exaggeration of existing personality traits, while other times they may result in psychological symptoms or disturbances. In some cases, the consequences may be severe, leading to self-harm, aggressive or violent behavior, or other concerning outcomes.

Overall, while external obstacles may provide a clear target for our efforts, it’s important to remember that internal factors also play a crucial role in our ability to overcome them. By building strong psychological capital, acknowledging and managing our emotions, and recognizing the psychological risk, support, and determination to develop psychological virtues and a peaceful life seems a good possibility.

In book begins with statement of a women who lived her entire life caring about her two sons who developed depression. She explains the success of treatment on mental health and at the same time cautions about unpredictable symptoms and spending life in fear that symptoms can come up anytime. She worries about her son having no friends and how their daily life is organised,

The main story of Radhika is a reflection that people possess enormous psychological strength, their capacities are limitless and their fight against adversities is a process of learning on an ongoing basis. Life is about knowing that you can challenge the challenges and come out victorious. It’s always possible.

Central to our exploration is the concept of mental strength, a powerful force within us that empowers resilience, optimism, and emotional regulation. We delve into the principles of mental strength, uncovering the transformative effects it can have on our lives. It is a quality that allows us to withstand the storms of life and emerge stronger, not despite challenges, but because of them.

In the pursuit of mental strength, we present a diverse array of evidence-based methods and strategies. Drawing on the fields of psychology, neuroscience, and mindfulness, we provide readers with effective tools to enhance their psychological well-being.

As we traverse the pages of this book, readers will find stories of courage and resilience, expert insights, and practical exercises. Our aim is to empower readers to embrace their mental health and recognize its significance. One must realize the importance of a healthy mind and healthy life, ensuring the management of stress, identifying mental disorders, and providing the earliest possible intervention.

It is essential to recognize that mental health is not a destination but a lifelong journey. We believe that the journey to mental well-being is both transformative and rewarding.

We hope that this book serves as a beacon of hope for those seeking understanding, acceptance, and growth. May it inspire readers to embark on their own path to mental strength, embracing the challenges and opportunities for self-discovery and resilience.

Conquer The Battle Within.

Motherhood & Mental Health

Kavita

I have crossed the age of retirement and though I don’t fancy the silver in my hair, it repeatedly displays itself if I don’t have a root touchup done in time. Which I do at home myself, I admit.

To say the least I am a senior citizen and a mother who never knows what retirement is. Does any mother ever retire from that position? Many women want to enjoy the freedom, the bindings which she has laid on herself, happily at one time, but wants to disentangle from the responsibility part as age advances, you wish that your responsibilities are shared.

But then that is the normal course of things. Not each one of us necessarily enjoys this freedom.

Just like most women who make a home and family, become mothers. Then they could be mothering their kids, older parents, and even their own husbands. Because a strong woman always wants to be in center of the family whirlpool or is forced to be in the place. She willingly accepts the responsibilities, as I have.

I gave birth to two, but I am mothering 3, my husband too.

At this age as science has progressed, fending more thought-provoking knowledge, my success as a mother wears a big crown of a tall and bold question mark. Why did I know so little? What is that I missed out on? Why am I suffering and am I responsible for the sufferings of my family, directly or indirectly.

Mental health is a word on which everybody wants to draw a curtain, and either hide or refuse to see the obvious. Stigma is such a vast sea of meaning, that you want to bury and cover all those issues which should better be addressed. But this word even stops you from picking up a book to learn more if you are suspecting an issue with any member in your family.

When I gave birth to my first child, I was honestly too naïve. A rather blank sheet. Little did I know about self-care, let alone care of the little one residing within me.

The second one came after a big gap of 5 years. The time I spent contemplating whether I wanted to spend more energy on the project of motherhood. I understood the benefits of having a second child, a lifelong gift to the one child, a blood relative after we had left this mortal world.

But the things that gradually crept in my life, without a forewarning, is something that could be happening to many. Traits of disturbed mental health in its mildest forms like anxiety, depression, which was best controlled with medication had made its way through in our life.

This is no blame and no attempt to shove the onus on my partner. But this is the game of genetics. I have been a science student, with my soul and heart. For reasons of the times, I was not a doctor myself but was surrounded by many. As a part of my family. But did this situation help me understand what is happening to my children now?

In recent times I have had the opportunity to update my knowledge of the possibilities, which could have made some difference in the kind of challenges my children are facing.

To simplify what I am trying to question is where and why did I fall short?, how much of this is my fault?

Any mother carries immense opportunities of helping and recognizing the shortcomings in the child that she is bringing up. What was the extent of my knowledge when I was carrying my babies? I can say that there is this vast sea of knowledge, which is available to me today, why was I not warned earlier. Brain growth and development while the baby is still in the womb, decides the baby’s abilities of growing into a healthy individual.

When I got pregnant the first time, I had been in the middle of my career decisions and education. I gave up on several opportunities, because a healthy first child was my priority. But how should I care for myself during the 9 months that I am carrying the baby inside of me? Just eating well? There was no family residing with us, during that phase. I was working, and doing the best I could understand how. No, I didn’t have any knowledge of how important even the spiritual aspect was. What positivity I could have infused in my child, had I the faintest of the ideas of the effect on the brain of the unborn kid. My son is struggling with a form of depression which needs ongoing medication, for as long as past 20 years. He has successfully cleared his education, but he deserved better. His capacities could have been sharper, as I now understand. Heredity is something you can’t modify, but gene expression and it’s effect can have a better outcome. With some effort one can direct the new life towards more positivity. I was told that all such things are a possibility, but did I know anything about this at the right time. When I could have done an additional effort to better my child’s health. He does not have the 100% of what he expects of himself and could probably have been capable of. He is medicated and still defines himself to be at his 75% functional capacity, his words not mine.

But yes, to be very honest I think I could have done better. Over the course of my married life, I realized that my partner was also challenged with depression and needed medication. What is the best drug for your condition is a trial most people go through. Most of them are weight gaining. Increased weight bear too many consequences. Right from the burden it puts on your heart, it spoils your image and confidence. One may be able to hide most of the feelings, and the person talking to you may not notice what is going on in your life. Only the person who is suffering and struggling to keep his spirits up, understands the efforts it demands.

So how am I supposed to feel? I live with regret, loads of it. What is it that I could have done better to help the men in my life, and not find myself in such a helpless position in today’s time.

My grandson is a bright kid, but my son still lives with the fear of how the genetic expression is going to present itself when he grows up?

Today my second son, is struggling. Struggling with his moods. He has few or rather no friends. And why? Just because not, everybody can understand that at times he is no mood of conversation or communication. When they notice this, they distance themselves, and so does he since he hates to be labelled. He is scared they will read his face like a book.

He is still struggling with his education and career, and I fear that respite is nowhere near the horizon.

What did I miss out on my input during his up-bringing. Could I have done things differently. I had a rather unexpectedly difficult experience during this second pregnancy. Lots of mood problems and anger issues. I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism, but it was diagnosed and treated almost 15 years later. But that could explain all the emotional upheaval and anger that my unborn must have experienced while he was a continuous companion in my womb. Placental protection does not let the chemicals interfere much, but emotions? they interfere during the formative years of development. He did not shine in school, but he was not bad either. His IQ test results were unexpectedly good, but then still why did he lag behind. Why could he not display the results?

By then I was already living with the in-laws, who were very supportive. But then what was missing. Yes, I was working, work pressure and competition was challenging. Isn’t that the life of a working individual. My husband’s health was putting an additional burden on his heart. Type A personality, who refrain from accepting things as they come. They want to push themselves to get what they desire. His role as a doting father to be for the second time was insignificant as I now recall. Busy with his work, could he have been more watchful over how I was so different the second time that I was pregnant. Could he have known better?

There were many subtle signals, which I could have checked, to make things better. The teen moods, and the slightly different symptoms in the elder son, I was even warned, for the second one. But putting a child on medication for treating problems which have not yet displayed themselves boldly is also a tough job for parents with all the knowledge in this world. I missed out on opportunity of arresting the progress of the illness. We as a family migrated, and observed how migration worsens the coping capacity, but did we give sufficient thought to what my young son was going through?

All are questions which still haunt me. More so now, since at this age I want to retire. Retire from the caretaking. I want each one of them to be either their own responsibility or should have someone else like a partner to take care of them. I am disappointed, not with my fate or genetics, they are not exactly in our control. But I am disappointed with myself. I am sure had I known better then, right from the time of conception I would have definitely worked harder towards making the life of my loved ones better.

THE FOUNDATIONS OF MENTAL HEALTH ARE ROOTED IN MOTHERHOOD

The origins of mental health and mental strength can be traced back to the profound influence of motherhood.

1. ​It is widely acknowledged that various components and processes of mental health are directly or indirectly influenced by the womb and childhood experiences.

2. ​The development of the brain, which is the core of mental health, relies on a nurturing emotional bond between mother and child. If the mother’s mental and physical well-being is compromised, it can negatively impact brain development and hinder the establishment of a strong emotional connection. Disruptions in brain development can potentially lead to various disorders. Additionally,