Feeling Like Everyone's Against You?

This and That

With Dr Sandy Kalayan

BLURB:

One in four people experience a mental health issue like depression, anxiety or eating disorders. Mental Health is the second largest pandemic in the world, yet seeing a therapist to help resolve issues still carries a huge stigma.

Therapy is simply a conversation with a trained health care professional.

A psychologist usually undertakes a seven year study to qualify and has to be registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa in order to practice. Psychologists are bound by a very strict code of ethics and all interactions between the therapist and patient are strictly confidential. If you are experiencing a Mental Health Issue, and unsure about your approach, feel free to write to me at [email protected].

Feeling Like Everyone's Against You?

DEAR Dr K, I have been reading your articles in the Post Plus and would like your advice.

I am experiencing paranoia and often feel that people are talking badly about me at a workplace, even my family. I am probably overthinking things. I feel that my mind is playing tricks on me. Your input will be appreciated.

Dear Reader,

Thank you for reaching out to me. It is difficult to make a clinical diagnosis without seeing you in person. I have replied to your email requesting you for a contact number so that we can talk.

However, as a response, I will  address the symptoms of a Paranoid Personality Disorder (PPD) in a broad way. Not everything may be applicable, hence a face to face session is highly recommended.

This mental health issue is characterised most strongly by a general mistrust of others. People with PPD are always on guard, believing that other people are constantly try to demean, harm or threaten them. They often do not accept that their behaviour or way of thinking is problematic.

This condition usually starts showing symptoms in the late teens or early adulthood. PPD is a rare mental health issue. Usually under 5% of the population experience it. 

People with PPD may doubt the loyalty of others, be reluctant to trust anyone, may be unforgiving, hold grudges, be hypersensitive and not open to constructive criticism, and perceive “hidden” meanings in totally innocent or casual remarks. 

Scientists don’t know the exact cause of PPD but it is very likely as a result of a combination of environmental and biological factors. It can be related to anxiety and depression. Diagnosis will involve looking at past history, relationships, reality testing and impulse control. The criteria is assessed by using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. PPD may overlap with avoidant personality disorder, an anti-social disorder or panic attacks. It can also be as a result of substance abuse disorder.

Is it treatable? Yes. Most therapists will use the model of cognitive behavioural therapy. However, because trust is the very essence of PPD, it may take a few sessions to build the trust relationship before actual work on the PPD can begin. Talk Therapy with a qualified

Healthcare Professional like a Psychologist is recommended. Therapy will help persons with PPD to learn more productive ways of dealing with thoughts and triggers.

If left untreated, it can have a severe impact on daily functioning.   

Wishing you good mental health.

Dr Kalyan is a psychologist, life coach and reiki practitioner