Description

The Rotaract Club of Jyoti Nivas College Autonomous, in partnership with the Rotaract Club of BPIT, Rotaract Club of MCC, Rotaract Club of Swarna Bangalore, and Rotaract Club of C.K.T ACS College, hosted an insightful session on February 11th focused on mental health awareness. The session aimed to shed light on the impact of mental health challenges and provide strategies for fostering emotional well-being. The speaker began by emphasizing the significance of mental health and its influence on daily life. They explained that conditions such as persistent low mood and overwhelming anxiety extend beyond fleeting emotions, often disrupting an individual's ability to function. Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), they clarified, is not merely a state of sadness but a prolonged period of emotional distress requiring professional intervention. Similarly, anxiety, while a natural response to stress, can become debilitating when it interferes with everyday activities, potentially indicating Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). The speaker outlined common symptoms such as excessive worry, restlessness, rapid heartbeat, and difficulty concentrating, stressing that these should not be ignored. They also highlighted that the body is the best indicator of mental distress and that avoidance tactics—such as procrastination, substance use, or social withdrawal—only serve to intensify these struggles. Instead, they encouraged acknowledgment and acceptance of anxiety as essential steps in breaking the cycle of avoidance and fear. As the discussion progressed, the speaker explored how social and environmental factors shape mental health. They explained that cultural expectations, fear of judgment, and interpersonal conflicts significantly influence emotional responses, sometimes leading to deeply ingrained patterns of distress. Many mental health challenges, they noted, are learned behaviors that can be passed down through generations. Emphasizing the strong connection between thoughts, emotions, and bodily sensations, the speaker illustrated how depression manifests through symptoms such as persistent sadness, loss of interest, disrupted sleep patterns, and feelings of worthlessness. They underscored the importance of identifying negative thought patterns and challenging irrational fears rather than resorting to avoidance behaviors. By fostering self-awareness and recognizing emotional triggers, individuals can take proactive steps toward improving their mental well-being. Toward the conclusion of the session, the speaker focused on how to support individuals struggling with anxiety or depression. They stressed the value of compassionate conversations, demonstrating concern, and allowing individuals to decide for themselves when to seek help rather than imposing solutions upon them. Practical self-care strategies were also shared, including breathing exercises, the use of calming scents like lavender, and identifying personal stressors. The speaker reinforced the significance of seeking emotional support from trusted family members, friends, or support groups, as well as practicing self-compassion to counter negative self-comparisons. The session concluded with a powerful message: mental health struggles are not a sign of weakness but a testament to resilience. Through small yet meaningful steps, individuals can cultivate greater emotional awareness and embark on a path toward healing and self-acceptance.