Did I always dream of becoming a counsellor? Did I pursue this career path as a teenager? Not really.
After graduating as a commerce student, I got married and became a full-time homemaker. I enjoyed the challenges of being a daughter-in-law, a mother, and a wife. Raising my two children taught me valuable lessons in patience, tolerance, active listening, empathy, confidentiality, and coping strategies.
Little did I know that these skills would prepare me for my future role as a counsellor. As my children grew up and became more independent, I found myself with a lot of free time. Like many homemakers, I got addicted to TV and other passive activities.
However, my dad encouraged me to use my talents and do something constructive with my life. That’s when I started to explore various career options and ideas. I realized that I had a natural inclination towards helping people and solving their problems.
After doing some research and taking some courses, I decided to pursue a career in counselling. It was a challenging but rewarding journey. I had to overcome my own fears and doubts, learn new skills and techniques, and build a network of clients and colleagues.
But it was all worth it. Today, as a professional counsellor, I feel fulfilled and grateful for the opportunity to make a positive difference in people’s lives. My journey may not have been linear or traditional, but it has taught me valuable lessons in resilience, adaptability, and self-discovery.
As a psychologist, I have spent over a decade helping individuals navigate their mental health concerns. However, the onset of COVID-19 brought about a new level of awareness regarding the importance of mental health. Over the years, I’ve seen first-hand the toll that the pandemic has taken on many people’s mental health. As a result, it’s become increasingly clear to me that mental health is just as important as physical health. In these modern times, the barriers to seeking therapy have significantly decreased. People from all walks of life are now more open to seeking help and support for their mental health concerns. However, there is still a long way to go. Many people are still hesitant to seek therapy, and this can be due to a variety of reasons such as stigma, fear, or lack of access to resources.
Another challenge has been the stigma that still surrounds mental health. Despite the growing awareness, there are still many people who feel ashamed or embarrassed to seek help.
Many people believe that mental health conditions are a sign of weakness or that they can simply “snap out of it.” This couldn’t be further from the truth. Mental health conditions are medical conditions that require proper diagnosis and treatment.
Ignoring mental health conditions can have serious consequences. It can lead to a decline in physical health, social isolation, and even suicide. According to the World Health Organization, one in four people globally will experience a mental health condition in their lifetime.
Fortunately, there are steps we can take to prioritize our mental health. These include:
- Seeking professional help: If you are experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition, seek help from a mental health professional. Talking to your friend/relative can make you feel better, talking to your therapist can help you get better.
- Exercise regularly: Regular exercise can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression and improve your mood. Try to aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity most days of the week.
- Get enough sleep: Lack of sleep can have a negative impact on your mental health. Aim for 7- 8 hours of sleep each night to help improve your mood, energy levels, and overall well-being.
- Eat a balanced diet: A healthy diet can help improve your mood and energy levels. Try to eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
- Practice self-care: Taking time for yourself to relax, engage in hobbies you enjoy, or spend time with loved ones can help reduce stress and improve your mental health.
In conclusion, as a psychologist, I believe that mental health is as important as physical health. My company Heal Helping Lives seeks to make therapy in these modern times more accessible and acceptable. For us every individual who comes for therapy is unique and special and it’s our endeavour to Changing thoughts, transforming lives!
Counselling Psychologist
Heal Helping Lives
In conclusion, as a psychologist, I believe that mental health is as important as physical health. My company Heal Helping Lives seeks to make therapy in these modern times more accessible and acceptable. For us every individual who comes for therapy is unique and special and it’s our endeavour to Changing thoughts, transforming lives!
As a psychologist, I strongly believe that mental health should be given the same importance as physical health. At Heal Helping Lives, we are committed to making therapy more accessible and acceptable in today’s modern world. We understand that each individual who seeks therapy is unique and special, and we strive to bring about positive changes in their lives by challenging their thoughts.
Join us on our journey to Changing thoughts and transforming lives!
