Shivang, a 27-year-old software engineer at Birlasoft, brings six years of industry experience to his role. Hailing from Maharashtra, he is the elder son in a family of four, including his parents and a younger brother.
In the heart of India lies Maharashtra, a land where ancient traditions and modern dynamism blend seamlessly. Renowned as the birthplace of the great Maratha warrior, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, it’s a state pulsating with heroic history and rich cultural heritage.
From the bustling streets of Mumbai, the city that never sleeps, to the tranquil vineyards of Nashik, each corner tells a unique story.
Home to the majestic Sahyadri mountains and the serene Konkan coast, Maharashtra’s diverse landscape captivates the soul. With its vibrant festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi, mouth-watering cuisine, and spirited folk music, Maharashtra offers an exhilarating kaleidoscope of experiences.
Growing up, Shivang was an active sports enthusiast, but his upbringing under strict parents meant limited opportunities for emotional expression.
Shivang’s life took an unexpected turn during an internship, on a day of torrential rain. Caught in a crowded train, he found himself trapped in a claustrophobic situation.
“The panic was overwhelming. It was a terrifying ordeal that left a deep impact on me.”
This traumatic experience marked the beginning of Shivang’s struggle with fear and anxiety.
“I started dreading public transport, feeling suffocated even at the thought of it. It was crippling and started affecting my daily life.”
The incident shook his confidence, leading him to believe he had a heart problem.
A visit to the hospital for a check-up followed, where Shivang underwent treatment for malaria and dengue. His attempts to discuss his feelings were met with dismissive remarks from his family, adding to his emotional turmoil.
“The return home didn’t bring relief. The fear resurfaced, more intense than before.”
In his search for understanding and support, Shivang learned about YourDOST.
“I knew I needed help beyond what traditional medicine could offer. That’s when I decided to reach out to YourDOST.”
At YourDOST, Shivang was introduced to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) by his counselor.
“CBT was a revelation. It helped me understand and manage my emotions more effectively.”
The therapy focused on altering negative thought patterns to improve emotional regulation.
Among the techniques, Shivang learned was the 5-4-3-2-1 breathing method.
“This technique was a game-changer. It helped me calm down during moments of intense anxiety.”
This simple yet powerful tool became a cornerstone in his journey towards recovery.
Through consistent counseling and the application of the techniques learned, Shivang experienced significant positive changes.
“My fear of public transport diminished. I began to feel less suffocated and more in control.”
His journey with YourDOST brought him not only relief from his fears but also a newfound confidence in managing his life.
Confronting the stigma around mental health within his family was another challenge Shivang faced.
“It wasn’t easy, but with time, my family began to understand the importance of the support I was receiving.”
Shivang’s commitment to therapy and its visible results gradually changed his family’s perception.
Reflecting on his journey, Shivang expresses deep gratitude towards his counselor at YourDOST.
“I am immensely thankful for the guidance and support. My counselor was a beacon of hope in my darkest times.”
Shivang’s story is a compelling narrative of overcoming trauma and rediscovering oneself with the help of YourDOST. His experience highlights the crucial role of emotional wellness services in addressing mental health issues that often go unrecognized.
“Thanks to YourDOST, I’ve not only conquered my fears but also learned invaluable skills to face life’s challenges. My journey to emotional freedom has been both enlightening and empowering.”
Shivang concludes with a sense of achievement and hope.
His experience serves as an inspiration to many facing similar challenges, demonstrating the transformative power of professional counseling and the importance of addressing mental health with empathy and understanding.
Shivang’s Warrior Tips:
1.“It’s completely okay to ask for help. Remember, sometimes we all need a little bit of magic in our lives and it’s perfectly fine to seek assistance to achieve it.”
2.“When you seek help with hope in your heart, your problems will surely find a solution.”
