Mental health is at the forefront of modern healthcare discussions, with increasing awareness of its importance across all age groups. In a recent episode of Let’s Talk Health, hosted by Dr. Dan Pavlik Jr., Dr. Renu Velisetty, a double board-certified psychiatrist specializing in both adolescent and adult psychiatry, shared her insights on mental health, innovative treatments, and the evolving landscape of psychiatric care.
A Passion for the Brain and Behavior
Dr. Velisetty’s journey into psychiatry started with a deep fascination for the brain. Initially drawn toward neurology, she later realized her true passion was in brain and behavior—helping people through their personal struggles by listening to their experiences. After completing medical school, she pursued a psychiatry residency in Upstate New York, followed by a fellowship in South Dakota. She now practices in Orlando, Florida, where she founded Lotus Integrative Psychiatry in May of this year.
Psychiatry vs. Psychology: Understanding the Differences
A common source of confusion for many is understanding the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist. Dr. Velisetty clarified:
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can prescribe medications and address psychiatric issues from a medical perspective.
Psychologists focus primarily on therapy and psychological testing rather than medication management.
While their roles differ, collaboration between the two often leads to the best outcomes, with a combination of therapy and, when necessary, medication.
Mental Health Trends Since the Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted mental health across all age groups. Dr. Velisetty has observed a notable increase in anxiety and depression, particularly among teenagers who missed critical social experiences such as prom, graduation, and peer interactions.
She also noted how social isolation affected young adults and even professionals:
"We are seeing students who lack confidence in communication, which seems to be linked to the isolation they experienced during remote learning."
Additionally, she highlighted how social media and digital engagement have further altered attention spans, stress levels, and interpersonal interactions—all of which impact mental well-being.
The Impact of Technology on Attention and Anxiety
One of the biggest factors contributing to attention issues in children and adults today is excessive screen time. Dr. Velisetty explained how the constant dopamine spikes from scrolling on smartphones condition the brain to crave instant gratification, making it harder to focus on tasks requiring longer attention spans, such as studying or reading.
How Parents Can Help
For parents concerned about screen time and mental health, Dr. Velisetty recommends:
✔ Setting realistic limits rather than banning screens altogether.
✔ Encouraging alternative activities like outdoor play, creative hobbies, or family time.
✔ Helping children gradually reduce screen dependency rather than abruptly removing devices.
"We need to provide other forms of support and connection, rather than just taking the phone away."
Alternative and Integrative Treatments in Psychiatry
While traditional medications play a role in psychiatric treatment, integrative approaches are gaining traction. Dr. Velisetty shared several alternative treatments that are proving effective for various mental health conditions.
1. GeneSight Testing – Personalized Medication Approach
This genetic test analyzes how an individual’s body metabolizes psychiatric medications, allowing for more precise prescribing. While it doesn’t predict effectiveness, it helps determine which medications a patient might metabolize too slowly or too quickly, reducing the trial-and-error process.
2. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) – A Drug-Free Brain Therapy
TMS uses electrical impulses to stimulate specific brain areas associated with depression, PTSD, and anxiety.
✔ Non-invasive and painless treatment.
✔ FDA-approved for treatment-resistant depression.
✔ Safe for pregnant women who need mental health support but want to avoid medications.
Dr. Velisetty described TMS as a "targeted approach", comparing it to fueling a car directly at the gas pump rather than dousing the entire car in gasoline (as systemic medications do).
3. Ketamine Therapy – A Rapid-Acting Antidepressant
Ketamine, initially an anesthetic, is now being used to treat treatment-resistant depression, PTSD, and chronic pain.
✔ Works within hours to days instead of weeks.
✔ Used in IV infusions or intranasal forms.
✔ Helps patients make rapid lifestyle changes by enhancing neuroplasticity.
Ketamine’s ability to reduce suicidal thoughts almost immediately makes it a breakthrough treatment for severe depression.
4. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) – Healing the Brain Post-Trauma
HBOT is being used to help patients with traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and conditions like PTSD and anxiety. By increasing oxygen levels in the blood, it promotes healing and neuroprotection.
5. Acupuncture & Nutrition – The Gut-Brain Connection
Nutrition and acupuncture play crucial roles in mental health. Dr. Velisetty emphasized the importance of dietary choicesin managing psychiatric symptoms. Many children and adults suffer from nutrient deficiencies, gut inflammation, and dietary imbalances, all of which can impact mood, focus, and anxiety levels.
✔ Reducing processed foods and sugar can improve symptoms of ADHD and anxiety.
✔ Nutritional supplements like omega-3s, magnesium, and probiotics may support better mental health.
Mind-Body Skills: The Missing Link in Mental Health Care
A holistic approach to healing often involves reconnecting mind and body. Trauma, stress, and anxiety can create a disconnect between emotions and physical sensations.
Dr. Velisetty advocates for mind-body practices like:
✔ Meditation & Mindfulness – Helps patients retrain their brains to stay present.
✔ Yoga & Breathing Exercises – Supports emotional regulation and stress management.
✔ Journaling & Creative Arts – Encourages emotional expression and healing.
"Sometimes, trauma stays in the body long after the event is over. Mind-body practices help realign emotional and physical healing."
Final Thoughts: A New Era of Mental Health Care
Dr. Velisetty’s approach to psychiatry is a blend of traditional and innovative therapies, recognizing that no two patients are the same.
✔ Mental health treatment is not just about medication—it’s about addressing the whole person.
✔ Technology and lifestyle factors play a major role in mental well-being.
✔ Alternative therapies like TMS, Ketamine, and HBOT are changing the way we treat psychiatric conditions.
For those seeking comprehensive mental health care, Lotus Integrative Psychiatry in Orlando, FL offers a personalized, cutting-edge approach to treatment.