At 39, Ayush, a PhD scholar at IIT Madras, found himself at a critical juncture in his life. Specializing in electrical engineering, his journey since joining the institute in 2016 was both challenging and enlightening.
Ayush’s path was not smooth, as he recalls, reflecting on the early days of his PhD journey.
“During my first semester, I struggled to grasp what the professor was teaching. It wasn’t just me; my classmates felt the same.”
The competitive environment of IIT Madras added to Ayush’s woes. The pressure of academics weighed heavily on him, casting a shadow of doubt and anxiety over his capabilities.
“Keeping up with the coursework and managing to score average grades was a Herculean task for me.”
Despite these challenges, Ayush was determined not to give up. His resolve was tested during his first seminar.
“It was half-hearted, and the results were disappointing. My guide, too, was not convinced.” Ayush says, recalling the disheartening experience.
“I knew I had to push through, no matter how confused or lost I felt.”
It was during these tumultuous times that Ayush discovered YourDOST.
“I approached therapy during the pandemic. It started with chats and evolved into telephonic conversations. YourDOST became my haven.”
Ayush’s counselor at YourDOST played a pivotal role in his transformation. Through a critical analysis of his difficulties, guided meditation, relaxation exercises, and body-scanning techniques, Ayush began to see a change.
“Each session was a step towards understanding and managing my stress better.”
Through consistent counseling, Ayush learned to navigate his academic challenges with a renewed sense of purpose and clarity.
“My counselor helped me see the strengths I didn’t know I had. I learned to approach my studies and seminars with more confidence and less fear.”
Ayush’s journey with YourDOST was not just about academic success; it was about personal growth and emotional resilience.
“I started seeing my challenges as opportunities to grow, to learn, and to evolve.”
Reflecting on his journey, Ayush expresses deep gratitude: “I am thankful to my counselor and YourDOST for supporting and guiding me through these challenging times. They helped me turn my struggles into stepping stones for success.”
Ayush Pushkar’s story is a powerful testament to the impact of emotional wellness and the importance of seeking help when needed. His journey with YourDOST highlights how therapeutic support can transform challenges into opportunities for growth and success.
“YourDOST not only helped me navigate my academic journey but also taught me invaluable life lessons. It’s a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and triumph.”
Ayush concludes with a smile.
His experience is a beacon of hope and inspiration for students and professionals facing similar challenges. It underscores the significance of mental health support in academic environments and the transformative power of counseling in personal and professional growth.
Ayush’s Warrior Tips:
1.“Always remember to start practising these simple physical techniques that will calm your nervous system down. This will help you get an idea towards things.”
2.“Try talking to your friends also, dont stay aloof and keep it to yourself.”
3.”Physical activity/exercise is a true game changer.”
