Having trouble sleeping? Suffering from panic attacks? Why your wife washes dishes over and over again, why she suspects everyone without any reason, what makes one sad all the time, what is anxiety, what are the different types of phobia, how do you explain dementia? This book has the answer to all such questions.
Dr. Samrat Kar is a known figure in the media, especially for his writings on mind -related problems. Being a consultant psychiatrist and Founder -Trustee of Cuttack-based Brain Foundation, India; he writes regularly for newspapers and is the author of many acclaimed books in English, Hindi and of course Odia.Besides writing, he regularly conducts health awareness programmes on radio and Television.
With such kind of exposure and the unfailing commitment to make individuals free from psycho- related problems, this book comes as a handy piece of work. With practical advice on how to overcome phobias, addictions, insomnia and several other diseases, this definitive manual and easy- to- read book provides a comprehensive solution for mind-related problems.
As the blurb says, “the book is an attempt to make people aware of various psychological problems and provide tools for self-assessment and further care’. The book at one go helps readers pinpoint their symptoms and provides practical advice on how to overcome those difficulties.
As Dr. Kar himself says on the preface, ‘The book is an humble effort to explain psychological problems with the help of anecdotes in common man’s language, picked up from my professional and personal diary followed by some essential medical information on each topic and problem’.
A foreword by Prof. Dr. Gopal Chandra Kar renowned professor of Neuro-psychiatry, the book has altogether 17 chapters – ranging from depression to mania, OCD to hysteria and addiction. There is a chapter each on suicides and sexual problems. The last chapter says how one can be treated and what the various options available. There is also a FAQ at the end of the book – all stuffed in some 170 pages.
Dr. Kar has tried to unravel the secrets of the mind and explain the scientific and therauptic facts behind common behaviours. For everyone wondering why they think, feel, and what exactly makes them happy, sad, angry, or anxious, this is an essential reading.
Armed with key psychological terms, readers can apply them to everyday situations. Written in a conversational style, this book is clear, concise, and relevant to the present times.
Moderately priced, the book is wide-ranging and entertaining. All those who are preoccupied with mental health should read it once.
Reviewed by Bhaskar Parichha
(The writer is a senior journalist and currently associated with OdishaLIVE as Consulting Editor. You can share your comment with him at content(@)odisha(dot)live)
