Mental Health Crisis in Kashmir | Podcast with HOD Psychiatry GMC-A Dr. Mansoor Ah Dar | Episode 1

Mental Health in Jammu & Kashmir | A Conversation with Dr. Mansoor Ahmad Dar HOD Psychiatry, GMC Anantnag As a final-year MBBS student of GMC Anantnag, it was both an honour and a learning experience to host this insightful podcast with my respected teacher Dr. Mansoor Ahmad Dar, Head of the Department of Psychiatry, GMC Anantnag. In this episode, we have an open, honest, and evidence-based discussion on mental health issues in Jammu & Kashmir, addressing stigma, myths, cultural beliefs, and the importance of timely professional care. This conversation is relevant for students, families, couples, and anyone silently struggling with mental health concerns. ⸻ ⏱️ Timestamps & Key Highlights 00:00 – 02:19 🔹 Powerful highlights & key messages from the podcast 02:19 – 03:24 🔹 Introduction to the podcast & guest 03:24 – 04:12 🔹 Why this podcast on mental health is urgently needed in J&K 04:12 – 07:15 🔹 Prevalence and burden of mental illness in Jammu & Kashmir 07:15 – 10:58 🔹 Normal sadness vs. clinical depression – understanding the difference 10:59 – 15:25 🔹 Early warning signs, importance of early diagnosis & when to seek professional help 15:25 – 17:31 🔹 Psychiatrist vs. Psychologist vs. Therapist vs. Counsellor – roles explained 17:32 – 20:29 🔹 Fear, stigma, and misconceptions surrounding psychiatric medicines 20:30 – 26:23 🔹 Mental illness, jinn/pari beliefs, peer sahab culture & scientific perspective 26:24 – 31:50 🔹 Do psychiatric medicines actually improve quality of life, or is it a myth that they only make patients sleepy? Understanding how proper treatment restores functionality, emotions, and daily living. 31:51 – 34:43 🔹 Role of family in depression & the harmful culture of blame 34:44 – 38:46 🔹 Transition phases in student life & risk of depression 38:47 – 41:50 🔹 Mental health challenges in newly married women & the supportive role of husbands 41:50 – 43:00 🔹 Should a person be blamed for having a mental illness? 43:01 – 46:40 🔹 Impact of social media on mental health 46:41 – 48:33 🔹 One-liner rapid Q&A with Dr. Mansoor Ahmad Dar 48:34 – 49:52 🔹 Vote of thanks & concluding message ⸻ 🌱 Final Message Mental illness is not a weakness. Seeking help is not a failure. Awareness, empathy, family support, and early professional intervention can change lives. If this podcast helps even one person understand mental health better, its purpose is fulfilled. 👉 Like | Share | Subscribe to support mental health awareness.