Interview on Mental Health

1. Was it you who discovered your mental illness or someone else? What do you think was the reason of your mental illness? What changes were seen in you that made you/others realize that there was something off or that you needed help?

My friends noted the signs first and felt that my behaviour started to change dramatically, especially just before exams. My closest friend highlighted this to me and in turn I did some bit of self-reflection and realised that I had symptoms like feeling low, loss of appetite, deprived sleep, lethargy, low self-confidence and sometimes I would even break down, especially before exams. That is when I could correlate that I probably needed to reach out to my parents as well as seek some professional help.

2. What were your initial thoughts when you came to know about your mental illness?

My initial thoughts were of denial. However, when I started to relate all my feelings/emotions and my behaviour to the common symptoms, I was shocked and taken aback and actually had an outburst. I vividly remember, that was the worst day of my life. I somehow managed to pull myself and went for my Mathematics tuition with tear filled eyes and it seemed to be that I was totally shattered.

3. What things did you start doing, in order to make yourself feel better/to help recover?

I think the first step to my journey to recovery was ‘acceptance’. Initially, I tried doing things that used to make me feel happy, but nothing seemed to be working. However, gradually I started keeping myself busy by experimenting with other activities, which helped me overcome the issues I had been facing earlier. I also convinced my parents to take me to a professional counsellor. In conclusion, a good counsellor, medicines and doing things that I started to enjoy helped me recover! Just for the benefit of the group, I am no longer on medications.

4. What sort of mental illness did you have?

It was Clinical Depression & Exam phobia.

5. What was the reaction of your family/friends?

As I had mentioned earlier, my friends were the ones who had identified that there was some problem. However, they stood by me every step of the way and played an extremely important role in my recovery. My parents were also extremely supportive, accepting and were on board with my idea of seeking professional help. In fact, they immediately reached out for professional help rather than delaying the matter as they had seen me break down many times, especially before exams. Both my family and friends were constant at keeping a check on me, as I learnt to deal with the new normal of life with medical treatment. I honestly think I would not have been as well-adjusted today if I had not had them by my side. Therefore, i feel that it is important to have supportive friends and family surrounding you.

6. What advice would you give people who are going through something similar especially during these tough times?

First of all, accepting that it is okay, not to be okay. Moreover, you should take one day at a time and always remember you’re not the only one going through this; you’re not alone! I would suggest that one should definitely seek professional help if needed. In case, your family/friends do not accept the fact that this is an issue, given that it is still a taboo; then one should educate them and finally convince them. One should also appreciate things that are good, beautiful and positive! In addition, find someone you can confide in, do things that make you happy or try new activities and lastly reassure yourself. I also feel that we need to tear down the stigma and empower people on their road to recovery and wellness. I would like to end by saying that everyone should make their mental health a priority. Having mental issues is not a sign of personal weakness and asking for help is a sign of strength. I want people to understand that this is a part of you, not ‘apart’ and is most certainly real!

✏️: @surya & @navya_chaudhari

🎨: @tarini_puri