Q&A with Mr. Manoj Majhi, Customer Success Manager, YourDost.com
As students progress through higher levels of education, the expectations for academic performance tend to increase. The coursework becomes more challenging, and the workload becomes more intense, which can be stressful and overwhelming sometimes. It is very common that higher education can also take a toll on mental health. Students may experience anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges as they navigate the demands of their academic and personal lives.
IIIT Bangalore takes students’ emotional wellbeing very seriously and willing to offer resources and support for students to help them manage and overcome these challenges. This can include counselling services, academic support programs and mental health resources. The entire faculty fraternity, administration and staff members are accessible and responsive to students’ concerns.
IIITB has tied up with an online platform, YourDOST.com, a platform that allows one to connect with experts to discuss issues related to their personal, professional and academic life. The professionally trained counsellors help to cope with work stress, relationship issues, enhance self-image, and support anyone in their quest for self-improvement.
Unlike physical health issues, which may be more readily apparent through external symptoms, mental health issues are mostly internal and less obvious to those around the person experiencing them. This can make it more difficult for students to recognize and address mental health issues in themselves or their peers.
Mr. Manoj Majhi, Customer Success Manager, YourDost.com in Q&A with Naviiina helps students recognize the signs and symptoms of mental health issues, reduce the stigma associated with seeking help and encourage them to take action when they or their peers are struggling.
What are the most common emotional setbacks students face, especially when they are away from family members?
The students in today’s world have competition with almost the smallest tasks, and a lot of it starts altering their personalities. A recent study found that 1 in 3 colleges students’ experiences significant depression and anxiety. Being away from home increases the risks of being exposed to peer pressure and may cause several other emotional setbacks.
Homesickness: Being away from home and family can make students feel lonely, sad, and isolated. They may miss the familiarity and comfort of their home and struggle to adjust to a new environment.
Stress: The demands of academic life, coupled with the pressure of being away from home, can be overwhelming for some students. They may feel anxious and stressed about meeting deadlines, making friends, and fitting in.
Depression: Students may experience sadness, hopelessness, and worthlessness, which can interfere with their ability to enjoy life and function well academically
Age group between 17-22 years is vulnerable as it is a transition phase moving from academics to building a career. What are the emotional turmoil do they undergo?
The transition phase of young adults is crucial and requires support from parents and teachers.
Here are a few commonly found issues:
Uncertainty about the future: Many young people at this age are unsure about what they want to do with their lives. They may feel the pressure to make important decisions but lack the necessary information and experience to do so confidently.
Fear of failure: The pressure to succeed in their chosen career path can be overwhelming for many young people. They may fear failure and the possibility of disappointing themselves or others.
Financial stress: For some young people, transitioning from academics to building a career can be financially challenging. They may struggle to find employment or have limited financial resources adding to their stress and anxiety.
Social isolation: Transitioning from high school to college or the workforce can be socially isolating for some young people. They may struggle to make new friends or feel like they don’t fit in with their peers. 40% of Indian students suffer from anxiety and depression due to academic pressure, which can be compounded by social isolation.
Identity exploration: Many young people use this time to explore their identities, which can be a confusing and challenging process. They may question their values, beliefs, and goals, which can cause emotional turmoil.
Pressure from family and society: Some young people may feel pressure from their families or society to pursue certain paths in life, which can create conflict and emotional turmoil.
A List of red flag signals to Seek for an Emotional Support
- Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness that last for several weeks or more.
- Significant changes in appetite or sleep patterns, such as sleeping too much or too little or having little interest in food.
- Withdrawal from social activities and relationships with friends and family members.
- Difficulty concentrating or completing tasks that were previously easy to complete.
- Unexplained physical symptoms such as headaches, stomach aches, or other aches and pains.
- Unhealthy coping mechanisms through alcohol consumption and substance abuse.
* If a student experiences any of these red flag signals, they should reach out for emotional support from a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional. They can also seek support from counselling services at their university or college, as these services are often available to students.
What are the advantages of seeking professional help in time of need?
Improved mental health: Professional help can provide individuals with the tools and techniques they need to manage their mental health more effectively. This can lead to improved mood, reduced anxiety, and a greater sense of overall well-being. 83% of people who received mental health treatment reported improvement in their symptoms.
Personal growth: Working with a mental health professional can help individuals gain greater understanding of themselves and their emotions. This can lead to personal growth and development and can help individuals make positive changes in their lives.
Reduced stigma: Seeking professional help can help reduce the stigma associated with mental health. By being open about their struggles and seeking help, individuals can help to reduce the shame and isolation that can come with mental health challenges.
Improved relationships: Addressing mental health challenges can help individuals improve their relationships with others. By learning to communicate more effectively and manage their emotions, individuals can build stronger and more meaningful relationships with family members, friends, and romantic partners.
Increased success: Addressing mental health challenges can help individuals succeed in all areas of life. By reducing anxiety, improving mood, and enhancing focus and productivity, individuals can achieve greater success in academic, professional, and personal pursuits.
