Mental health care for patients from Dharan
Depression, anxiety, panic, OCD, trauma, bipolar disorder, insomnia and alcohol or substance use are common reasons to seek psychiatric help. Dharan patients come from eastern Nepal. Many fly via Biratnagar or travel by road, so the visit is planned to cover history, reports and a clear written plan in one sitting.
A psychiatric assessment is confidential and non-judgmental. The first step is a structured history and mental status examination, not an immediate prescription. Treatment may include talking therapy, medication, or both, with a written plan and a clear follow-up interval.
- Persistent low mood, loss of interest or unexplained fatigue
- Anxiety, panic attacks, excessive worry or avoidance
- OCD, trauma-related symptoms or intrusive thoughts
- Mood swings, irritability or suspected bipolar disorder
- Insomnia, stress-related complaints or alcohol and substance use
Related: Psychiatry → · Dr. Ruja Shrestha profile → · All conditions →
In-person and telepsychiatry options
Dr. Shrestha consults at Mind Wellness Center in the Durbar Marg area of Kathmandu. Telepsychiatry is available for follow-up and for patients who cannot attend in person. Fly to Biratnagar and connect to Kathmandu, or travel by road via the Koshi Highway (roughly 350 km, 9-10 hours). Allow extra time during the monsoon.
For a first appointment, in-person evaluation is preferred when travel is feasible because it allows a fuller mental status examination and a private discussion of safety. If travel is not possible, a video consultation can clarify urgency and start a plan; some presentations still need in-person review.
- Telepsychiatry works well for follow-up, medication review and stable presentations
- In-person review is preferred for complex or safety-critical assessments
- A reliable internet connection and a private room are needed for video consultations
- Emergency situations need local emergency services, not an online appointment
What the first consultation covers
The initial consultation usually lasts 45-60 minutes. It covers the main symptoms and their timeline, sleep, appetite, energy, functioning at work or study, past treatment, current medicines, substance use, medical history, family history and safety.
You will discuss a working diagnosis, treatment options, expected benefits and side effects, and when to review. Family members or caregivers can attend if you wish, and confidentiality is explained at the start.
| Step | What happens | Typical duration |
|---|---|---|
| History | Symptoms, onset, impact, prior treatment | 20-30 minutes |
| Mental status examination | Mood, thought, cognition, insight, safety | 10-15 minutes |
| Discussion | Diagnosis, options, questions, follow-up plan | 15-20 minutes |
Practical travel and follow-up from Dharan
Local follow-up in Dharan can handle routine monitoring; the Kathmandu team reviews complex results and any change in treatment.
Bring a list of current medicines with doses, any previous psychiatric records, and a short written summary of your main concerns. If you are travelling with a family member, involve them in the plan and the safety discussion. Follow-up intervals are set according to response and risk, not a fixed schedule for everyone.
- Medication list with doses and any previous side effects
- Prior psychiatric or psychological reports
- A brief symptom and sleep summary
- A family member or trusted person if helpful