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Why do New Year resolutions feel so powerful on January 1st—and yet fade away within days or weeks? In this episode of the State of Mind Podcast for the New Year, Dr. Shyam Bhat explores the psychology behind New Year resolutions: why we make them, why most of them fail, and how real, lasting change actually happens. Dr. Bhat explains how resolutions are usually made at the level of the thinking brain, using willpower and logic alone—while the rest of the mind and body resist change. Drawing from psychology and behavioral research, he shows why this creates an exhausting internal battle that most people eventually lose. This episode introduces a more effective approach to change: shifting identity instead of forcing behavior. Rather than saying “I can’t do this,” lasting transformation comes from becoming the kind of person who naturally doesn’t do it. If you’re tired of repeating the same resolutions year after year, this episode offers a deeper, more compassionate, and more effective way to move toward your goals. 🎧 State of Mind with Dr Shyam Bhat is the podcast that discusses everything to do with the mind. If there are topics you'd like explored, leave them in the comments. Like and subscribe so new episodes reach you. Take care of yourself. To know more, follow Dr Shyam Bhat on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drshyam_bhat Twitter: https://x.com/shyambhat WhatsApp Channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb6sRziD8SDyMkA7r139

In this episode of the State of Mind Podcast, Dr. Shyam Bhat explains why depression in men is often missed, misunderstood, and mislabelled—sometimes with tragic consequences. Through two contrasting real-life style scenarios, he shows how one person’s distress may be recognized and treated early, while another person’s suffering may show up as anger, irritability, withdrawal, or substance use—until it becomes dangerous. Dr. Bhat explores why standard textbook definitions of depression may not capture how many men experience it, and how cultural expectations around “being strong” can prevent men from recognizing their own pain or seeking help. In this episode, you’ll learn about: @00:00 – Introduction Welcome to State of Mind and overview of the topic 00:13 – Two Common Scenarios of Emotional Distress How similar suffering can lead to very different outcomes 00:20 – Scenario 1: Depression That Is Recognized and Treated Sadness, withdrawal, help-seeking, diagnosis, and recovery 01:26 – Scenario 2: When Depression Looks Like Anger Irritability, alcohol use, withdrawal, and denial 02:37 – When Pain Goes Unnoticed and Becomes Dangerous Isolation, escalation, and suicide risk 02:52 – Why We Don’t Understand Male Depression The gap between diagnosis rates and suicide rates 03:15 – Depression Statistics: Men vs Women Why women are diagnosed more, but men die by suicide more 04:13 – How Depression Presents Differently in Men Why textbook criteria often miss male depression 05:06 – The Three Patterns: Aggression, Numbing, Escape Common external signs of male depression 05:48 – Behaviours That Are Mislabelled as “Bad” Substance use, impulsivity, pornography, road rage 06:06 – Biology vs Social Conditioning The role of culture and upbringing 06:13 – The Masculinity Ideal and Emotional Suppression “Men don’t cry” and its psychological cost 06:49 – Research on Masculinity and Depression Externalising vs internalising symptoms 07:22 – Why Male Depression Is Often Missed And why it can become fatal if untreated 07:34 – Warning Signs to Watch For Anger, numbness, alcohol, isolation, poor sleep 07:48 – Seeking Help Is Not Weakness Redefining strength and masculinity 08:11 – A Message to Those Who Are Suffering Why reaching out matters 08:20 – How to Support Someone in Pain Don’t turn away—offer connection If this topic resonates with you, please don’t deal with it alone. Speak to someone you trust and seek professional support. And if someone in your life is struggling, reach out—support can be life-saving. 🎧 State of Mind with Dr Shyam Bhat is the podcast that discusses everything to do with the mind. If there are topics you'd like explored, leave them in the comments. Like and subscribe so new episodes reach you. Take care of yourself. To know more, follow Dr Shyam Bhat on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drshyam_bhat Twitter: https://x.com/shyambhat WhatsApp Channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb6sRziD8SDyMkA7r139

Why do social situations linger in the mind long after they are over? Why does a single look, silence, or perceived judgment replay again and again? In this episode of the State of Mind Podcast, Dr. Shyam Bhat responds to a listener’s question about social anxiety—but goes far beyond labels and surface-level advice. Instead of focusing only on social skills or exposure, this episode explores the deeper root of social discomfort: the idea of the self. Dr. Bhat explains how human beings uniquely carry powerful narratives about who they are, how these beliefs shape emotional suffering, and why feeling judged in social settings is often an attack on identity rather than a real external threat. Drawing comparisons with other animals, neuroscience, philosophy, and lived experience, he shows how our greatest evolutionary gift—the human mind—can also become our greatest source of distress. This episode explores: Why social anxiety is more about identity than interactionHow the brain interprets threats to the “self”Why humans suffer more psychological stress despite progressThe difference between compassion and people-pleasingHow examining beliefs can lead to emotional freedomWhat it truly means to feel “enough”This is not a quick-fix episode. It is an invitation to look inward with honesty, courage, and curiosity—and to begin the process of genuine transformation. 🎧 State of Mind with Dr Shyam Bhat is the podcast that discusses everything to do with the mind. If there are topics you'd like explored, leave them in the comments. Like and subscribe so new episodes reach you. Take care of yourself. To know more, follow Dr Shyam Bhat on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drshyam_bhat Twitter: https://x.com/shyambhat WhatsApp Channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb6sRziD8SDyMkA7r139

Overthinking, often referred to as rumination, is one of the most common sources of stress, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion in modern life. In this episode of the State of Mind Podcast, Dr. Shyam Bhat explores what overthinking really is, why the brain gets stuck in repetitive thought loops, and how rumination differs from healthy mind-wandering. Dr. Bhat explains the neuroscience behind rumination, including the role of the Default Mode Network (DMN), the prefrontal cortex, and the stress response system. He discusses how chronic overthinking increases the risk of anxiety, depression, and burnout, and why willpower alone cannot stop intrusive thought cycles. This episode also offers practical, evidence-based strategies to manage overthinking, including: Recognizing when the mind is stuck in ruminationUsing distraction and attention-shifting effectivelyTurning worry into structured problem-solvingImproving sleep, exercise, and lifestyle habitsThe powerful role of nature, gratitude, yoga, and meditationDeveloping self-acceptance and healthier self-esteemIf you find your mind replaying conversations, worrying about the future, or getting stuck in negative loops—especially at night—this episode will help you understand what’s happening and how to gently break the cycle. To know more, follow Dr Shyam Bhat on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drshyam_bhat Twitter: https://x.com/shyambhat WhatsApp Channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb6sRziD8SDyMkA7r139

Why are so many people depressed even when nothing seems “wrong”? In this episode of State of Mind, Dr Shyam Bhat unpacks one of the most common questions around mental health: “What causes depression?” Depression is often misunderstood as a reaction to a single life event or a personal weakness. In reality, clinical depression is a complex mind–body condition, very different from ordinary sadness. In this conversation, we explore: Why depression does not have one simple causeThe difference between sadness and clinical depressionHow stress, life events, and genetics interactWhy depression often shows up as physical symptoms, especially in IndiaThe role of nutrition, gut health, social connection, pollution, and urban livingMost first episodes of depression are triggered by stress, but only in those who are biologically and environmentally vulnerable. Understanding this complexity is essential for reducing stigma and supporting recovery. Depression is real. It is treatable. And understanding it is the first step toward healing. 🎧 State of Mind with Dr Shyam Bhat is the podcast that discusses everything to do with the mind. If there are topics you'd like explored, leave them in the comments. Like and subscribe so new episodes reach you. Take care of yourself. To know more, follow Dr Shyam Bhat on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drshyam_bhat Twitter: https://x.com/shyambhat WhatsApp Channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb6sRziD8SDyMkA7r139

What does it really mean to “be yourself”? In Avengers: Endgame, Thor’s mother says something profound: “Everyone fails at who they’re supposed to be. The true measure of a person is how well they succeed at being who they are.” In this episode, Dr Shyam Bhat unpacks that moment through the lens of psychology and philosophy and explores why our suffering often comes from chasing an idealized version of ourselves that doesn’t actually exist. We talk about: The “idealized self” and how it fuels anxiety, stress, and self-doubtWhy constantly comparing yourself to who you think you should be makes you unhappyHow Western psychology and Eastern philosophy view the idea of the “self” differentlyWhy you don’t need to find or become who you areHow letting go of labels, comparison, and self-judgment can bring real peaceIf this resonates, take a moment to like, share, or subscribe for more conversations on mental health, identity, and self-acceptance. 🎧 State of Mind with Dr Shyam Bhat is the podcast that discusses everything to do with the mind. If there are topics you'd like explored, leave them in the comments. Like and subscribe so new episodes reach you. Take care of yourself. To know more, follow Dr Shyam Bhat on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drshyam_bhat Twitter: https://x.com/shyambhat WhatsApp Channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb6sRziD8SDyMkA7r139

What can Game of Thrones teach us about surviving trauma and growing after it? In this episode of State of Mind, Dr. Shyam Bhat reflects on moments from Game of Thrones to explore the concept of post-traumatic growth—the idea that people can develop strength, insight, and resilience after profound adversity. Rather than focusing on shock or tragedy, this conversation looks at how characters evolve through loss, violence, and uncertainty—and what their journeys reveal about the human capacity to grow after trauma. This episode explores: • What post-traumatic growth really means • How adversity can reshape identity and values • Why growth doesn’t erase pain—but can coexist with it • What popular stories reveal about human resilience If you’re interested in mental health, stress management, modern life, emotional well-being, Eastern philosophy, self-growth, and the psychology of society, this episode offers a deeply reflective and eye-opening perspective. 🎧 State of Mind with Dr Shyam Bhat is the podcast that discusses everything to do with the mind. If there are topics you'd like explored, leave them in the comments. Like and subscribe so new episodes reach you. Take care of yourself. To know more, follow Dr Shyam Bhat on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drshyam_bhat Twitter: https://x.com/shyambhat WhatsApp Channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb6sRziD8SDyMkA7r139

We’re often told to “just be yourself.” But what does that actually mean and why is it so difficult? In this episode of State of Mind, Dr. Shyam Bhat explores the psychology of self-discovery and authenticity. The conversation looks at how social conditioning, fear, and expectations shape our identity—and what it really takes to live in alignment with who we are. This episode explores: • Why being yourself feels unsafe for many people • The difference between authenticity and self-image • How identity is shaped by family, society, and culture • What it means to sustain authenticity over time If you’re interested in mental health, stress management, modern life, emotional well-being, Eastern philosophy, self-growth, and the psychology of society, this episode offers a deeply reflective and eye-opening perspective. 🎧 State of Mind with Dr Shyam Bhat is the podcast that discusses everything to do with the mind. If there are topics you'd like explored, leave them in the comments. Like and subscribe so new episodes reach you. Take care of yourself. To know more, follow Dr Shyam Bhat on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drshyam_bhat Twitter: https://x.com/shyambhat WhatsApp Channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb6sRziD8SDyMkA7r139

Why does it feel like more teenagers today are struggling with depression? In this episode of State of Mind, Dr. Shyam Bhat addresses a question he frequently hears in his clinical practice: Why are so many teenagers depressed today? The conversation explores how social media, peer pressure, identity formation, and emotional development intersect to impact teen mental health. This episode discusses: • How social media affects self-image and emotional regulation • Peer comparison, validation, and online pressure • Why adolescence is a uniquely vulnerable phase • How parents, caregivers, and communities can offer support This is a thoughtful, non-sensational conversation aimed at understanding, not blaming, and at encouraging healthier conversations around teen mental wellbeing. 🎧 State of Mind with Dr Shyam Bhat is the podcast that discusses everything to do with the mind. If there are topics you'd like explored, leave them in the comments. Like and subscribe so new episodes reach you. Take care of yourself. To know more, follow Dr Shyam Bhat on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drshyam_bhat Twitter: https://x.com/shyambhat WhatsApp Channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb6sRziD8SDyMkA7r139

Is reality something we directly experience or something the brain constructs for us? In this episode of State of Mind, Dr. Shyam Bhat explores the neurological and psychological foundations of perception. Using the concept of Maya, he explains how the brain filters sensory information to create the world we experience, revealing why reality can feel solid, yet be deeply subjective. This episode covers: • How sensory information is processed by the brain • The role of the auditory cortex, thalamus, and sensory gating • Why the brain filters reality instead of showing us everything • How ancient concepts like Maya align with modern neuroscience A grounded, science-based conversation that bridges philosophy, psychology, and brain science—without mysticism or exaggeration. What we discuss: 01:59 Sensory Impressions 04:33 Auditory Cortex 09:26 Sensory Gating 12:16 The Thalamus 18:26 Break through the Maya If you’re interested in mental health, stress management, modern life, emotional well-being, Eastern philosophy, self-growth, and the psychology of society, this episode offers a deeply reflective and eye-opening perspective. 🎧 State of Mind with Dr Shyam Bhat is the podcast that discusses everything to do with the mind. If there are topics you'd like explored, leave them in the comments. Like and subscribe so new episodes reach you. Take care of yourself. To know more, follow Dr Shyam Bhat on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drshyam_bhat Twitter: https://x.com/shyambhat WhatsApp Channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb6sRziD8SDyMkA7r139

Have you ever wondered how your brain instantly recognises a face, sometimes even after years? In this episode of State of Mind, Dr. Shyam Bhat breaks down the neuroscience behind face recognition. From how the brain stores facial information to why some faces feel familiar and others don’t, this conversation explores one of the most fascinating everyday functions of the human mind. This episode covers: • How the brain recognises and remembers faces • What happens when face recognition doesn’t work typically • The role of perception, memory, and identity • What face recognition teaches us about the human mind What we discuss: 00:37 Work as a Psychiatrist 06:59 Why does it happen 10:40 What we can learn 🎧 State of Mind with Dr Shyam Bhat is the podcast that discusses everything to do with the mind. If there are topics you'd like explored, leave them in the comments. Like and subscribe so new episodes reach you. Take care of yourself. To know more, follow Dr Shyam Bhat on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drshyam_bhat Twitter: https://x.com/shyambhat WhatsApp Channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb6sRziD8SDyMkA7r139

GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic (semaglutide) have become household names, and millions of people around the world are now using these medicines, not just for the treatment of diabetes or metabolic syndrome, but also to lose a few kilos. While, undoubtedly, GLP-1 receptor agonists are a huge advancement and do benefit many people, there is a downside and a risk that we should be aware of, because these are drugs that work not just on the gut but also on other parts of the body, including the brain. As we expand the use of GLP-1 agonists, and as they are being touted as the next best thing, it's important to deepen our understanding of how these medicines actually work, so that we can use them with greater awareness. The truth is that GLP-1 agonists change how much you eat not just by working on your gut, but by reaching deep into the brain's reward system, turning down neural circuits that affect desire, craving, and motivation, ultimately shaping what you want and how you experience pleasure. While we do know that they have powerful effects on the brain, we still do not fully understand what this implies, and which subset of people might experience benefits and who might suffer even neurological or mental health side effects from these medicines. The data is clear that for people with diabetes, obesity, or fatty liver, these drugs can be life-changing, and sometimes life-saving. Emerging data suggests that they could be helpful for the treatment of addictions, but the data is mixed about their effect on mood and cognition. The harder question, one that it is imperative we consider, is this: what is this doing to the brain and to the mind, and what risks should we be aware of? In this episode of State of Mind, Dr. Shyam Bhat breaks down the science of GLP-1 receptor agonists — what they actually do to the gut, body, brain, and mind. If you or someone close to you is considering a GLP-1 medication, this is the context you need to decide well, from first principles rather than hype and hearsay. Disclaimer: Any patient or client narratives discussed in this video are presented solely for educational purposes. All case histories are composites drawn from clinical experience. Identifying details, personal characteristics, and contextual information have been changed or combined to protect confidentiality. Individuals described do not represent any specific person or actual patient or client. ⏱️ Chapters 00:00 — More than weight loss 02:13 — What GLP-1 actually is (and how it works) 05:05 — The Gila monster & the discovery of GLP-1 drugs 10:39 — GLP-1 receptors across the body 12:17 — GLP-1 in the brain 17:51 — Wanting vs. liking: how the reward system works 20:21 — GLP-1 and addiction: the early evidence 23:53 — The big question: can it blunt healthy desire? 31:55 — Muscle, bone & other body effects 32:48 — Who should (and shouldn't) take it 33:58 — What to monitor in your own mind Links to studies mentioned: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39424... https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles... https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40759... https://esmed.org/glp-1-receptor-agon... https://www.bmj.com/content/392/bmj-2... 🎧 State of Mind with Dr Shyam Bhat is the podcast that discusses everything to do with the mind. If there are topics you'd like explored, leave them in the comments. Like and subscribe so new episodes reach you. Take care of yourself. To know more, follow Dr Shyam Bhat on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drshyam_bhat Twitter: https://x.com/shyambhat WhatsApp Channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb6sRziD8SDyMkA7r139

Running is often described as a cure-all for stress, anxiety, and low mood. Many runners report feeling calmer, clearer, and more focused after a run—but does running actually help mental health in a clinically meaningful way? In this episode of the State of Mind Podcast, Dr. Shyam Bhat examines the science behind running and mental health, exploring when running can be genuinely beneficial and when it may not be enough, or even become harmful. Dr. Bhat reviews research on exercise, mood, and cognition, including studies showing improvements in mild anxiety and depression, as well as large meta-analyses comparing high-performance athletes with non-athletes. He explains why running helps some people feel better temporarily, yet may fail to address deeper anxiety or clinical depression. This episode explores: What research really says about running and mental healthWhy running helps mild anxiety and depression but not always severe casesThe role of endorphins, adrenaline, and the autonomic nervous systemHow chronic stress and anxiety affect the body’s biomechanicsWhy running in a fight-or-flight state can increase injury and health risksThe importance of mind–body alignment when exercisingWhen to seek professional help instead of relying only on exercise Running can be joyful, meditative, and deeply healing—but only when it comes from the right internal state. This episode invites a more mindful, integrated approach to movement, mental health, and self-care. To know more, follow Dr Shyam Bhat on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drshyam_bhat Twitter: https://x.com/shyambhat WhatsApp Channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb6sRziD8SDyMkA7r139

In times of uncertainty, stress, and isolation, the mind naturally drifts toward fear, worry, and worst-case scenarios. Our brains are wired to predict the future—but when the future feels unclear, this very ability becomes a source of suffering. In this live episode of the State of Mind Podcast, Dr. Shyam Bhat explains why stressful and unprecedented situations amplify anxiety, and how meditation helps us reclaim calm, clarity, and emotional stability—regardless of what is happening outside us. This session includes both a guided meditation practice and a deeper explanation of why meditation is so effective during periods of uncertainty, loneliness, relationship strain, and fear. Dr. Bhat explains how the human brain struggles with uncertainty, why we habitually postpone peace until life feels “perfect,” and why learning to access calm within is essential for resilience. This meditation is not about forcing relaxation—it is about allowing the mind and body to settle naturally by coming fully into the present moment. If you are feeling stressed, anxious, lonely, or overwhelmed, return to this practice as often as you need.

Self-love is often presented as the ultimate solution to mental health struggles. But what if self-love, when misunderstood, can actually deepen suffering? In this episode of State of Mind, Dr. Shyam Bhat explores the dark side of self-love—where it helps, where it harms, and why balance matters. Drawing from psychology, philosophy, and Eastern perspectives, this conversation goes beyond pop-culture definitions to examine self-love in a deeper, more integrated way. If you’ve ever felt confused, pressured, or disconnected by the way self-love is talked about online, this episode offers a grounded and thoughtful perspective. What we discuss: 00:46 Mental Health in India 03:06 Clinical Depression 05:04 Suicide 06:12 Selflove 08:00 Ayn Rand 11:19 What is Selflove 13:48 Selflove in the East To know more, follow Dr Shyam Bhat on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drshyam_bhat Twitter: https://x.com/shyambhat WhatsApp Channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb6sRziD8SDyMkA7r139