Honey Singh’s openness about his struggles with bipolar disorder and psychotic symptoms sheds light on the challenges many face in silence.
In his Netflix documentary, Yo Yo Honey Singh: Famous, the rapper recounted experiences of paranoia and delusions, sharing how he would feel terrified of even routine interactions. Singh recalled being invited by Shah Rukh to join him for a tour in the United States. Despite being overworked, he agreed to the offer.
During this tour, he mentioned that he wasn’t in the state to perform but was forced to. “When they took me to Chicago for the show, I said, ‘I don’t want to perform’. I was sure that I was going to die during that show. Everyone told me that I should get ready, but I refused. My managers came over, and they said, ‘Why aren’t you getting ready?’ I said, ‘I’m not going’ I went to the washroom, took a trimmer, and I shaved my hair off. I said, ‘How will I perform now?’ They said, ‘Wear a cap and perform’.” Singh revealed.
Singh then grabbed on to his chair, and refused to let go. He started yelling that he didn’t want to perform. “There was a coffee mug lying there. I picked it up and smashed it on my head.”
The singer also disclosed his battle with bipolar disorder and said, “It was bipolar disorder. There were psychotic symptoms as well. What happens then is that your mind goes out of control. You start seeing dreams while you’re awake. I would get scared even when my maid used to come thinking she’d be laughing at me, she was wiping blood off the floor, etc. It was a weird feeling. I thought I’d never be able to meet my parents again. I saw hell. I wished for death every day.”
Understanding the complexities of bipolar disorder with psychotic symptoms is crucial for offering effective support and treatment.
The treatment for bipolar disorder with psychotic symptoms involves a combination of psychotherapy and medication (Source: Freepik)
Some early warning signs of psychosis in individuals with mood disorders
Sonal Khangarot, licensed rehabilitation counsellor and psychotherapist, The Answer Room, tells indianexpress.com, “Bipolar disorder with psychotic symptoms is a combination of extreme mood swings and episodes where reality feels altered.” Some early warning signs, according to he,r include:
- Perceptual changes: Hearing voices, seeing things, or feeling paranoid about events or situations that are not present.
- Cognitive changes: Difficulty focusing, disorganized thoughts, or believing in irrational ideas.
- Behavioral shifts: Social withdrawal, increased agitation, or erratic behavior.
“Understanding these signs requires awareness of mental health conditions and the differences between psychosis and neurosis,” stresses Khangarot.
Coping strategies
According to the psychologist, some effective coping strategies when dealing with bipolar disorder and accompanying psychotic symptoms are:
Education and Understanding: Being open to learning about the disorder, including its signs, symptoms, prognosis, and triggers, helps foster empathy and preparedness.
Support Networks: Joining peer support groups can reduce feelings of isolation and provide emotional relief.
Structured Routine: Maintaining a consistent schedule for sleep, diet, and exercise helps stabilise mood fluctuations.
Crisis Planning: Families should create a plan for managing episodes, including emergency contacts and steps to ensure safety during psychotic episodes.
Role of therapy and medication
The treatment for bipolar disorder with psychotic symptoms involves a combination of psychotherapy and medication, such as mood stabilisers like lithium and antipsychotics, notes Khangarot. Regular follow-ups are essential for adjusting dosages. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) helps challenge delusions and build coping mechanisms. Complementary approaches, like a nutritious diet, exercise, yoga, and breathwork, can improve mental health and reduce stress. Psychoeducation also helps individuals identify triggers and stay committed to treatment plans.
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