A psychiatrist is the key that helps you unlock a stress-free and happy life. On March 10, 2025, Dr Subhadeep Roy a neuropsychiatrist in Kolkata, was invited as the chief guest and speaker at a significant medical officer training session organized under the District Mental Health Program, Howrah. This lecture was held at the Pather Dabi Meeting Hall, within the premises of the Office of the District Magistrate, Howrah. The main focus of this event was to equip MBBS doctors with practical tools and clinical knowledge to manage psychiatric conditions effectively at the primary healthcare level.
Simplified Clinical Framework for Early Intervention
As a neuropsychiatrist in Kolkata, Dr. Subhadeep Roy has consistently emphasized that the first touchpoint for emotional wellness often begins with a general physician. He says that doctors at primary health centers hold the potential to either open the door to healing or miss crucial opportunities for early intervention. During this training, he presented a structured treatment approach that would allow doctors to identify emotional distress and initiate appropriate care without delay.
Basic Understanding of Psychopathology
Dr. Subhadeep Roy firmly believes that a strong understanding of emotional disturbances can turn suffering into recovery. In his session, he explained the basics of psychopathology in simple and relatable terms. He described how emotional illnesses develop, progress and are influenced by genetic, psychological, biological and environmental factors. He clarified how these issues often begin and are masked as physical symptoms and why early detection is critical.
Identification of Psychiatric Conditions at the Primary Level
He trained each doctor attending to identify early signs and symptoms of various psychiatric disorders, promoting precise diagnosis as the foundation for the right treatment. His session included
- Anxiety Disorders
- Phobia and Panic Attacks
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Schizophrenia
- Drug Addiction
Symptoms like constant worry, restlessness, sleep difficulties, sweating, tension and a racing heart were covered in detail.
Dr. Subhadeep Roy explained how phobias and how panic attacks occurs, with sudden fear and physical symptoms are mistaken for cardiac issues.
He stressed the importance of recognizing hidden obsessive thoughts and repetitive actions, which patients often hesitate to disclose.
He focused on early signs like hallucinations, social withdrawal and unusual thinking symptoms that frequently get confused with mood disorders.
He also highlighted how substance abuse alters brain function and behavior, guiding attendees on how to spot addiction during routine checkups.
As an experienced neuropsychiatrist in Kolkata, he supports his patients in reclaiming emotional balance and leading fulfilling lives.
Protocol for Initial Management and Referral
MBBS doctors at primary health centres can offer better health care if they know when and how to start treatment. He clearly says the protocols,
- Prescribing safe first-line medications for mild-to-moderate anxiety or depression
- Providing empathetic counseling during initial contact
- Recognizing cases requiring urgent specialist referral
- Establishing rapport and reducing patient stigma
- Documenting psychiatric history and maintaining confidentiality
The goal was not to turn general practitioners into specialists but to empower them with the confidence and knowledge to act early because early care often prevents long-term weakening.
Why This Training is Essential
He pointed out that in states like West Bengal, there remains a wide gap between emotional challenges and accessible treatment. While specialists are available in urban centers, the primary care doctor is often the first professional a person reaches out to. Many of these doctors, however, lack the training or assurance to handle emotional issues effectively. This training aimed to close that gap. It wasn’t just about sharing information it was about enabling transformation. By training MBBS doctors to recognise and respond to psychiatric conditions early, the system becomes more compassionate and effective for all patients.
Inspiring Moments That Spark Change
Dr Subhadeep Roy found the session personally and professionally fulfilling. The focused attention and active participation of the attendees were deeply inspiring. The doctors who attended the programme care for countless patients each day, many of whom silently endure emotional distress. By the end of the session, he noticed a visible rise in their confidence to address these issues. For him, this experience reaffirmed that real change begins with awareness and collective commitment.
A Vision for the Future
Dr. Subhadeep Roy extended his heartfelt thanks to the District Mental Health Programme, Howrah, for the opportunity to lead this important initiative. He says that if similar training sessions are held regularly across all districts, the country can move towards a healthcare system that prioritises not just physical health but also emotional wellness. This, he says, should be the beginning of a more inclusive, kinder and understanding medical future.
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