T.W. Mentions of Self-Harm
In the vibrant corridors of Bennett University, amidst the whirlwind of engineering marvels and technological breakthroughs, a 20-year-old B.Tech student, Rakesh, embarked on a journey of self-discovery and emotional resilience.
Originating from the heart of Bihar, Rakesh’s story is not just about academic achievements but the power of understanding one’s true self and overcoming personal challenges with grace and courage.
Growing up in a conservative, joint family of nine, Rakesh enjoyed the privileges and affection that came with being the eldest son.
“Being the eldest son in the family gave me a lot of freedom and pampering growing which I am really grateful for. I am quite close to all of my family members.
His childhood was filled with love, and his passion for reading books, especially those brimming with logic, shaped his analytical mind.
However, the transition to college life at Benette University, though academically stimulating, presented Rakesh with unforeseen personal challenges. The university, recognizing the importance of mental well-being, had a subscription with YourDOST, an emotional wellness organization. It was here that Rakesh found a haven to express and explore his feelings in a judgment-free environment.
During his first year, Rakesh faced the daunting task of understanding his sexuality. Identifying as demisexual, he found himself in need of guidance to navigate through this exploration phase, especially when the acceptance from his peers was less than warm.
“I was undergoing severe panic attacks, my body would feel numb, suffered from suicidal thoughts and also fainted.”
The toll on his mental health led to self-harm tendencies, prompting the university authorities to intervene and advise him to take time off for recovery.
The revelation of his struggles was a shock to his parents, unaccustomed to such issues, which further alienated Rakesh from his familiar support system. However, the ray of hope in this tumultuous phase was Ms. Sanjam, his counselor from YourDOST. Sanjam’s warmth and unwavering support became the cornerstone of Rakesh’s recovery.
“Sanjam was very warm and would always listen to me. She has seen me fall and rise, and I am super grateful for being able to connect with her.”
Sanjam’s intervention was pivotal; she sought permission from her supervisor to advocate for Rakesh’s return to college, emphasising his readiness and capability to continue his studies. This gesture of going beyond the call of duty not only facilitated Rakesh’s return to college but also marked the beginning of a transformative journey towards emotional wellness.
One technique that played a crucial role in managing his panic attacks was the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding technique, a tool suggested by Sanjam. Initially challenging, this method eventually became a lifeline for Rakesh, helping him to anchor himself in moments of overwhelming anxiety.
Today, Rakesh stands as a beacon of progress, embodying patience and resilience. The frequency of his episodes has significantly reduced, reflecting the positive changes fostered through his counseling sessions.
“Her help feels like a life-long debt, and I am very confident that her level of approach can never be replaced. I would really wish to meet Ms. Sanjam and thank her for her kind nature.”
Rating his current state of well-being a 4 out of 5, Rakesh’s journey is a powerful narrative of facing one’s fears, embracing one’s identity, and the transformative impact of compassionate counseling. YourDOST, through its commitment to emotional wellness, stands as a testament to the belief that every individual deserves understanding, support, and the opportunity to thrive, regardless of the challenges they face.
Rakesh’s story is not just his own but a beacon of hope for many, highlighting the significance of mental health resources like YourDOST in fostering a supportive and inclusive community. It’s a reminder that with the right support, every individual has the potential to overcome their struggles and lead a fulfilling life.
Rakesh’s Warrior Tips:
1.“No amount of self-improvement can ever make up for the lack of self-confidence. ”
2.“It’s important to always check on yourself and give your mental health the support it needs.”
