Statistics show that the rate of psychological disturbances leading to Suicide, Homicide, Marital breakdown, Alcoholism, Drug abuses etc. are increasing at an alarming rate all over the world.

According to the National Mental Health Program document, about 20-30 million Indians are in need of some form of mental health care. Every year 2,50,000 new cases are being reported. But these figures do not include the thousands of others who may be suffering in silence without access to help. With timely intervention and proper care, at least 60 percent of these disturbed people can recover completely and at least 70 percent can avoid chronic illness and disability. A large number of people can be helped merely by listening empathically and actively, thus establishing a caring human interaction, which makes the disturbed individual open to explore, understand and change something in himself to solve his problem. This is called personal counselling.

Personal Counselling has never been more needed than it is today. There is an urgent need to rescue toxic and failing relationships, the relationship of man with himself, relationships within families, between neighbors, between communities and even between countries, before we self-destruct as a human race.

The Stigma of Counselling
Man is obsessed with, and doing so much for increasing the longevity of mankind, but have we ever thought of the quality of life we lead? Physical well-being and health is given the highest priority with newer drugs flooding the market everyday. Has anyone ever thought as much about emotional well-being and mental health? The World Health Organization has declared that the emotional health of humanity is declining, that cases of depression, nervous anxiety and psychosomatic disorders are on the rise, and that family doctors should look for signs in a patient, which would indicate the need for counselling. In a society where going to the gym for physical fitness training and workouts is considered as the 'in' thing to do, it is sad to see that mental and emotional fitness and training is not accorded the same status. There is an invisible stigma attached to counselling, wherein general practitioners hesitate to refer cases for personal counselling fearing that their patients may take offense. Denial of the need for therapy only compounds the problem, for if there is anything worse than having a problem; it is denying that you have one. Timely intervention of counselling can avert many a disaster. Besides the removal of the stigma of counselling and correct referrals by family, friends and family doctors, what is required is creating an awareness of the dire need of counselling, and the awareness of the availability of such help. Those who need the intervention of counselling should not only be encouraged to reach out for help, but should also be applauded for the decision of taking active steps for bettering their life. For this, the support of general practitioners, social workers, other members of the helping profession and above all, the media, is extremely important. They are the ones who need to create awareness of the entity of counselling, the need for it and help in removing the stigma attached to it.

A friend in need
The country does not have even 3000 counsellors and the requirement is manifold. It is therefore my endeavor to teach basic counselling skills to as many people as possible, through the Training Programs I conduct in Personal Counselling. If during these times of stress, competition and low frustration tolerance the disturbed individual is able to find immediate help in his family, social or work environment in the form of an empathic and caring listener who will give him a ‘hand up’, so many disasters can be averted. He can then subsequently be referred to a professional counselor.

There is an urgent need for establishing meaningful human interaction between people. The fast-paced highly competitive urban world, the break up of the joint family system, more women working outside the house, single child norm etc. means that a 'friend in need' is even more required today. If we can increase the number of such 'friends' who DARE TO CARE and if they are spread across every part of society, the rate of disturbed individuals becoming chronically ill and disabled will most definitely reduce. It needs to be mentioned that such caring not only benefits the receiver of care, but also benefits the caregiver who gets in touch with his own human side, thus exerting him to be the best human being that he can be.

What is Personal Counselling?
There are several misconceptions about the nature and intention of counselling and therapy. Many people believe that the purpose of therapy is to talk about their problems, rather than devising active means of solving these problems. It is not talk that is important, but action.

For successful therapy, certain essential conditions need to be fulfilled.
• Identifying something as a problem. Many people, who are unfulfilled and even seem to suffer, are in denial about having a problem.
• Accepting the possibility that something can be done about it. Many people admit having problems but feel that that's the way they are and that nothing can be done about it.
• Expressing a desire to change. Many people say they have problems, acknowledge the possibility of change, but seem uninterested in changing.
• A willingness to make an effort and do whatever it takes to change. This is crucial in distinguishing people who change from those who don't, and this is what finally determines the success or failure of counselling.
The fact is that that psychological growth and emotional re-education, like any other form of learning and development, calls for active participation on the part of the learner. The counselee needs to BE committed, DO whatever it takes, and as a result HAVE what he wants.
Thus the objective of all counselling and therapy is to get the counsellee to understand that the locus of control is in him, to take responsibility for his contribution to his situation, and to thus get him to fully participate in his own healing and work towards a harmonious life.

The Heart to Heart Counselling Centre, based in Mumbai (Bombay) India, is a social organization devoted to help society in the area of mental & emotional health. We arrange training programs, certificate courses, seminars, workshops to create public awareness as well as education in the field of Counselling, Psychotherapy, Family welfare, Teenage guidance, AIDS awareness, Sex Education etc. Heart To Heart Counselling Centre, India has been regularly conducting Professional level, intensive, practical training programs in various models of Counselling & Psychotherapy (Non-Directive and Active-Directive) at 10 Jerbai Baug, Near Gloria church, Byculla-East, Mumbai (Bombay) 400027, India. Each of theses training programs (Certificate Courses) practically trains participants in the scientific, contemporary and internationally most widely accepted Methodology/Scientific technique of Counselling. These Certificate Training Courses in Counselling are suitable and ideal for those who are or want to be in people-oriented professions such as Counsellors, Therapists, HR Personnel, Leaders & Trainers in Corporate world, Medical, Paramedical & Psychology students, Management Trainees, Social workers and NGO workers/volunteers. For details contact +91 22 22184528 or +91 22 23755866 or 09821093902

Colored crystal pyramid for finances

There are various reasons of a stagnated economy in a house or a company or even for an individual. Firstly, the efforts made towards generating economy should be proper and continues. But if you believe that the efforts which are implied are not generating a balancing economy, this pre- programmed pyramid is what you need. It is programmed to strike on the negative causes which are preventing your income. It is provided in a couple among which, one is placed at your work place and the other at the place where you keep money at your home. Both these pyramids connect with each other through their programming (quite like a wireless internet connection). The one at your office will generate economy and the other at your home will stop unnecessary wastage of money by creating two different kinds of auras. Ence the results are moneterily healthy.

One of the hardest things patients have to do today is to select amongst the many medical options which the doctor offers to them. Making decisions is always hard work - especially when dealing with your health ! Firstly, this is an area in which you have little expertise or experience . Secondly, the consequences of the wrong decision can be extremely painful, which is why many patients get paralysed into inactivity. This is why patients want a doctor who will make the right decision for them. Unfortunately, it's becoming extremely difficult for doctors to do so, because doctors cannot read a patient's mind - and do not know what their personal preferences are. It was much easier in the past, when patients had a family doctor, who knew a lot about them and whom they trusted completely.

So what's the solution ?

Like most modern doctors, I never tell patients what to do. I believe in non-directive counselling, and believe my role is to help them to make the right decision for themselves.

When they need help, I usually tell patients to follow a three-step technique to help them make the right decision for themselves.

Step 1 - Use your brains

Knowledge is power and information therapy is essential medicine. If your doctor won't provide you with the information you need, please use the internet ; or get a second opinion.

Make a list of all your options. Use the McKinsey system, to make a list which is mutually exclusive and complete exhaustive. Please keep an open mind and just list all your choices. Don't be judgmental or make any attempt to censor the list.

The more the homework you do, the better your results. You can also brainstorm to come up with new options too ( What If I had a million dollars ? is a helpful tool to use when you need to think "out of the box").

Step 2. Listen to your heart

What if you had no constraints ? What would you choose ? Which is your first choice ?( Don't worry about the practicality of your choice right now - this will come later). There should be no ifs and buts at this stage. Continue to keep an open mind and don't think about objections at this stage. Remember, that you need to use a combination of logic and emotions to come to the right decision.

Step 3 Work out the logistics

This is the "nitty-gritty" of the treatment. Which doctor should I choose ? When should I start the treatment ? How can I afford the treatment ?

Patients often try to do this first - and then get stuck. If you do steps 1 and 2 ( in that order), the logistics will usually fall into place on their own. Doctors are experts are organising the minutiae of the medical treatment, so let them do this - after all, this is their job. You need to focus on Steps 1 and 2 - something which no one else can do for you !

You will find this framework extremely helpful in making the right medical decision when confronted with choices. Use it sensibly - and be willing to re-visit it as time goes by and you uncover new options ( Step 1); or your heart's desires change ( Step 2).

And what is the role of the doctor ? I feel my role is to be a safety net, in that I can reassure the patient that I will offer my recommendations ( and the reasons for these); and not let them make a wrong choice - but when there are options, I will allow them to decide for themselves, if they want to do so.

Dr Aniruddha Malpani, MD
Malpani Infertility Clinic, Jamuna Sagar, SBS Road, Colaba
Bombay 400 005. India
Tel: 91-22-22151065, 22151066, 2218 3270
FAX ( India) 91-22-22150223.

Helping you to build your family !

PS Read our book, How to Have a Baby - A Guide for the Infertile Couple, online at www.DrMalpani.com !

Get better medical care by storing your records free at http://www.myinfertilityrecord.com !

Read my blog about improving the doctor-patient relationship at http://doctorandpatient.blogspot.com/

Self-management
There are 2 main types of illness: acute and chronic. An acute illness doesn't last very long. It goes away either on its own or in response to treatment, such as taking medicine or having surgery. Strep throat is an example of an acute illness. A chronic illness is ongoing. It affects your health over a long period of time--possibly your entire life. In many cases, there is no way to cure a chronic illness. Diabetes and high blood pressure are examples of chronic illnesses.
It's important to understand that your chronic illness is a serious problem. If you don't believe this, you'll never be motivated to manage your illness effectively. Managing your illness involves making lifestyle choices and using prescribed medical treatments to be as Health as possible. Unless you take care of your body, your chronic illness can cause more problems in the future.
When you have a chronic health problem, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and helpless, as if the illness has taken over your life. For example, you may need to take daily insulin injections, use an inhaler or monitor your blood pressure. However, you can take steps to control the negative effects of a chronic illness on your health. One method of taking control is called "self-management."
Self-management of chronic illness means that you take responsibility for doing what it takes to manage your illness effectively. It's important for you to be responsible for your health because the treatment recommendations your doctor makes won't do any good unless you follow them. He or she can't make decisions for you or make you change your behavior. Only you can do these things.
As part of self-management, it's also your responsibility to ask for the help you need to deal with your illness. This support can come from friends and family members, as well as from your doctor or a support group for people with your health problem.
Once you've decided to take an active role in managing your illness, you and your doctor can work together to set goals that will lead to better health. These goals will be part of an overall treatment plan.
Take an honest look at the unhealthy aspects of your lifestyle. Start with a particular behavior that you'd like to change in order to have better control of your illness. For example, you might decide that you don't eat enough vegetables, get enough exercise or take your medicines as your doctor tells you to.
One of the most important things to remember is that you can change your behavior. Even though your illness makes you feel helpless at times, if you work with your doctor to set goals and you take responsibility for following through with them, you can make changes that will lead to better health.

Heavy Metal Toxicity and Kidney Disease

Heavy metals are metals that are at least five times denser than water. They cannot be metabolized by the body and include mercury, nickel, lead, arsenic, cadmium, and aluminum. Our Kidney Helper product is recommended for helping to balance the body allowing it to purge heavy metals from the kidneys. Heavy metals have no function or nutritive value in the body and are toxic. In modern society, toxicity from heavy metals is a growing problem throughout the world.

Heavy metals can be taken into the body in several ways. Inhalation, absorption through the skin, and ingestion are three examples. If you take them into your body and they are allowed to accumulate faster than the body can detoxify them, heavy metal poisoning will occur.

You do not need heavy exposure at once to become poisoned by heavy metals. Light exposure repeated over time will do the same amount of damage. Metals can accumulate in your fat cells, in your liver and kidneys, and in other organs. Heavy metal toxicity can impair many different systems in the body, including kidney, liver, and colon--and can cause skin damage, cardiovascular illness, and endocrine, gastrointestinal, immune, and nervous system damage.

If you suspect you have heavy metals in your system, there are several ways you can be tested. One is through a kidney biopsy or a bone biopsy. Blood and urine can also be examined. A less invasive method is to have your hair tested. Because your body tries to rid itself of heavy metals, they often show up in your hair. Many times, however, doctors overlook the possibility that people are poisoned this way, and the problem goes undiagnosedKidney Damage

The location of the kidneys protects them from many external forces. They are located deep within the abdomen. Protected by the spine, lower rib cage and back muscles, this location keeps their large blood supply intact. Still, kidneys can be injured if there is damage to the blood vessels that supply or drain them. If you were to injure your kidneys, you could bleed severely. People with undiagnosed kidney conditions are more susceptible to injuries to the kidneys.

Each kidney filters about 1,700-2,000 liters of blood per day, outputting waste into about one liter of urine per day. This exposure to toxins each day makes them highly susceptible to injury from toxic substances. When waste products are allowed to build up within the kidneys, toxic kidney damage can occur. Medical procedures such as surgeries and certain medications can also do damage.

Symptoms of acute kidney damage should be treated as an emergency. They may include severe pain in the flanks, back pain, fever, abdominal swelling, blood in the urine, drowsiness, coma, increased heart rate, pale skin and sweating. A decreased output of urine or inability to urinate is also a symptom. Symptoms of chronic kidney damage include irritability and weight loss, and constipation occurs with toxic injury such as lead poisoning.

To prevent kidney damage, it is necessary that you stay on top of your health. Drink plenty of flKidney Disease And High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is one of the most common causes of kidney disease. It's also a common cause of kidney failure (end-stage renal disease). When we get older, we experience a higher risk of serious health problems, such as cancer, heart disease, and kidney disease. Those of us with hypertension or diabetes have an even higher risk of developing kidney disease. Fortunately, often, it can be prevented.

The reason high blood pressure increases risk of kidney disease is because it can damage blood vessels and filters in the kidney. The kidneys' main function is to filter waste and clean the blood. The damage caused by hypertension makes it difficult for the kidneys to remove waste from the body.

High blood pressure can sometimes be a symptom of kidney disease. Other symptoms include difficulty urinating, a decrease in the amount of urine, and edema, especially in the lower legs. The need to urinate more often is another symptom. Lab tests such as testing the blood for serum Creatinine and blood urea nitrogen can help diagnose kidney disease. Too much of either substance in the blood can mean there is damage to the kidneys.
If you have high blood pressure, there are certain things you can do that will help in preventing kidney disease. First, try to keep your blood pressure below 130/80, and take your medicine properly. Check your blood pressure on a regular basis, and eat right. As with any disorder, see your doctor for proper diagnosis.uids and avoid becoming dehydrated. Keep your blood pressure at an acceptable level and if you have diabetes, manage it well. Finally, see your health care practitioner if you have any of the above symptoms in order to get a proper diagnosis.