Much like the characters we admire in our favourite anime or the protagonists in heartwarming theatre performances, real-life heroes often face their own battles, fought not with swords or superpowers but with the courage to confront their emotions and build meaningful connections. This story of resilience, self-discovery, and the transformative power of therapy showcases that even the most ordinary among us can begin a profound journey of healing and growth.
Meet Jai (name changed), a 27-year-old IIT Kharagpur graduate from the ECE Engineering department. He is currently living and working in Europe.
Growing up in a small town in West Bengal, Jai was an average student in his early years. As an only child, he had a moderate relationship with his family, which, like any typical family, had its share of ups and downs.
Jai had unique interests and hobbies and enjoyed watching anime, participating in theatre in Europe, and browsing through mathematics problems online.
“I have a passion for mathematics, and even though I don’t actively study, solving complex problems is something I love.”
Jai first heard about YourDOST from his alma mater, which partners with the organisation as their official mental health partner. Jai sought someone who could empathise with his experiences and chose Ms Abhirami Narayan as his counsellor.
“She listens well and is very empathetic, which helps me calm down and think better.”
Jai’s journey with therapy began due to the emotional scars left by ragging in college. The bullying left him struggling to cope, which led him to seek therapy for the first time.
As he progressed through therapy, Jai faced another significant challenge, which was understanding and navigating relationships.
“I grew up with certain viewpoints about life given by my parents and teachers. They emphasised getting a good education and job, while other aspects like relationships were expected to fall into place on their own.”
However, as he approached his mid-twenties, Jai realised that life didn’t work that way.
“I spent so much time building my career that I didn’t put effort into developing relationships or my personality.”
This realisation created a rift in his mind, leading to feelings of depression and insecurity about relationships and his views on women and people in general.
To address these issues, Ms Narayan introduced Jai to various therapeutic techniques.
“She suggested journaling, like recording my voice when I feel overwhelmed, and talking to my younger self to provide the support I never received.”
Although he found some techniques challenging to practice consistently, he appreciated their impact.
Another technique involved daily writing. Abhirami encouraged him to write two pages every day about anything that comes to mind, whether it’s a poem, an article, or just his thoughts. This practice helped him process his emotions and thoughts more effectively.
“She advised me to socialise more and suggested taking small steps, like putting a hand on someone’s shoulder, hugging after getting to know them, or asking someone to hang out without any expectation.”
These actions helped him build connections and overcome his anxiety about relationships. Jai also explored Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with Ms Narayan, which further aided his mental health journey.
“CBT helped me understand and change my thought patterns, making me feel more in control of my life.”
Reflecting on his progress, Jai feels grateful for Ms Abhirami’s support.
“She provided a structure for my thoughts and actions, helping me navigate life’s challenges better. It’s a journey in progress, but I’ve come a long way.”
Today, Jai rates himself as 4 out of 5 in terms of feeling better, with improvement meaning feeling confident enough to walk straight with his head up.
We at YourDOST are confident that Jai is on the path to a brighter future, and we wish him all the best in his endeavours!
Jai’s Warrior Tips:
1.“Mental health is not a joke, and seeking therapy is essential. It’s not about curing the problem immediately but learning to live with it until you improve.”
2.“Stick with therapy until your therapist advises otherwise. Consistency is key.”
3.“Focus on building relationships and personal growth alongside your career. Both are essential for a balanced life.”
Are you someone who has gone through a difficult phase and emerged stronger and better, with some professional help? Share your story with us to encourage thousands of others who might be struggling. Click here to submit your story.
