Authors Advocating their views on Mental Health

International Women's Literature Council

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Mental Health is not a rising concern. It is something that prevailed for a long period of time . However people started noticing and addressing the concerns lately after the Covid Pandemic. As it was within this time that the people realised Mental Health is an important concern for the Authors. Let us listen to the views of our well known authors on the Topic Mental Health.

SUBHECHCHA GANGULY

Subhechcha has been in the profession of Journalism since the past three years. She has curated the book “STARDUST” and has worked for several well known news channels like Times of India, Times of Odisha (Social Media), Times Bharat and presently Interview Times. She understands the importance of Mental health and has conducted several sessions on Mental Health Awareness, recent one being on 3rd November by International Women’s Literature Council . Let us know what she has to say about Mental Health.

 

Thoughts on Mental Health by Subhechcha 

Mental health can be managed only if someone wills to take a step . Remember you always have a choice, a choice to take the correct decision to be happy , a choice to understand and make better judgements for yourself and the choice to not be like someone who traumatised you.

 

Dr Sridevi K.J.Sharmirajan

Dr. Sridevi Soundirarajan, known as Sridevi K.J. Sharmirajan, is an Indian professional with BE ECE ,MBA and MA(YOGA FOR HUMAN EXCELLENCE) degrees. She got the honorary doctorate in the field of LITERATURE from ICONIC PEACE AWARD COUNCIL. “POSITIVE INFINITY,” her first poetry book, clinched the GOLDEN BOOK AWARDS 2023, INTERNATIONAL EXCELLENCE AWARD 2023, and 21st CENTURY EMILY DICKINSON AWARD. She is also the awardee of NARI PRATIBHA SAMMAN CHANGEMAKER 2023 from Sheforward,BHARAT VIBHUSHAN 2023,RABINDRANATH TAGORE LITERATURE AWARD 2023,LSH CERTIFIED AUTHOR, ICONIC NARI SAMMAN PURASKAR 2023,BHARATIYA BHANUSIMHA PURASKAR 2023 and IKIGAI AWARD 2023 by DRDC GLOBAL and INSPIRING INDIA AUTHOR’S AWARD 2023.She won world’s great deeds award from WORLD’S GREATEST RECORDS. Her podcast “SPREAD POSITIVITY with AUTHOR SRIDEVI” is available on Apple podcast in New and Noteworthy Category and it accompanies the book.She made a world record for “The Author behind Positive infinity and iconic podcaster of 2023” by the Influencer book of world records and Bharat record book 2023.She won “Iconic podcaster and Author of the year 2023” from She rise achievement gala 2023 by Diva Planet Magazine.Sridevi’s commitment to inspiring and uplifting others has led her to become the GLOBAL BRAND AMBASSADOR of THE INSPIRING WOMEN COMMUNITY (TIWC).She has written more than 10 books in Poetry, Fiction and Nonfiction.Let us know what she has to say about Mental Health.

 

Thoughts on Mental Health by Dr Sridevi K.J.Sharmirajan

 

Mental health is a multifaceted aspect of our well-being that requires a holistic, individualized, and proactive approach. Mindfulness practices, like meditation and yoga, are recognized as effective tools for relaxation and self-awareness which helps in maintaining good mental health.By adopting a mindful and resilient approach to life, finding balance and harmony, simplifying our lives, honing emotional intelligence, and embracing adaptability, individuals can work towards better mental health and lead more abundant and fulfilling lives.

 

 Author Rakhi Kapoor expressing her views in this topic

Rakhi Kapoor is a renowned author of 26 impactful books, relationship coach and physiotherapist, specialising in prenatal counselling for over two decades. She is the recipient of the Prestigious International Golden Book Awards 2023, (Asia’s most coveted Book Awards) for her book Now You Breathe in the Category Powerful Relationship Guide. Five of her books topped the best seller chart in its category on Amazon India. (www.Rakhi Kapoor.com) Through her books Rakhi ideates and arrives at simple solutions for several complicated and often-neglected issues like self-help, relationships, mental health, women’s wellness, childbirth and pregnancy, personal transformation etc. Her books capture a unique blend of a traditional and innovative approach for modern life.

 

Apart from being recognized as an author, she is also a renowned physiotherapist and prenatal counsellor specialising in antenatal care for over two decades.  Her own traumatic encounters during childbirth inspired her to curate programs for pregnant women and expecting couples. Antenatal counselling being a foreign concept in India, Rakhi was one of the pioneers in this concept. Now she is one of the most successful people in this field. She has reached out to thousands of couples through her centre called Dwi Maternity Studio in Chennai. Rakhi has written books addressing significant issues like mental health of pregnant women and young moms, anxiety and fear towards childbirth, mood swings & post-natal depression, etc.

www.dwimaternitystudio.com

 

Rakhi Kapoor also co-founded the popular Men’s Fashion Brand called Derby Responsible Wear along with her husband which is based out of Chennai, Tamil Nadu.

 

Awards and Recognitions:

 

Rakhi has been awarded the author of the year 2022 by Ex MP Jaya Pradha  at the National Achievers Award in December 2022 at the constitution Club of India. She has also won the prestigious Writeinfluence award Season 3 and Season 5 and Nonfiction Author of the year 2023 in the Ukiyoto Literary Awards. Rakhi Kapoor has been recognized as the Women face of the year 2023 and Rising Spark of India by Fox Story India. She has received the Exceptional Women of Excellence Award 2022 by Yuukke , a global ecosystem for women. Rakhi has received the India Power woman Award 2023 and the India Social impact awards 2023 for her work in the field of women and children’s health. Rakhi Kapoor Received the International Inspiration women’s award 2023 (IIWA) by the GiSR Foundation in New Delhi. Rakhi also received the All India Inspirational Women’s award (AIIWA) 2023 in Bangalore from Director Amog Varsha. Rakhi Kapoor has received the Global Inspirational Women Inspiration Award (GIWA) 2023 in Goa from Sudha Chandran. Rakhi was awarded as a change maker at the Humanitarian Excellence Award program on 15th August 2023 in Jaipur by the I can Foundation in Jaipur.

 

Thoughts on mental health by Author Rakhi Kapoor

Thought: Hurt people, Hurt people. Take care of your mental health, get help and heal from mental & emotional trauma, failures and past baggage.

 

Author Rakhi Kapoor reiterates the importance of psychiatric intervention and psychotherapy in the stress encapsulated digitalized lifestyle of the common man especially after the covid -19 disease and urges educational institutions like schools, colleges and various organisations to step up support with regards to the mental health of students and young adults. Rakhi urges the general public to shun the stigma around mental health in India and openly seek help from various mental health professionals like psychiatrists and psychologists.

 

My Golden Books award winning book Now You Breathe and twenty sixth book Breaking Free Embracing Me addresses abuse which is inflicted in toxic relationships with close family, friends, in personal spaces; mentors in institutions, colleagues and superiors at workspaces. Hurt people hurt people. Unresolved trauma and abuse can result in depression, complex post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety attacks, addiction and suicidal tendencies along with various other mental health conditions. Various mental health issues lead to personality disorders like Narcissistic Personality Disorder, Borderline Personality disorder, Psychopathy and Sociopathy etc in an individual reiterates the (DSM) Diagnostic of Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders used world-wide by all mental health professionals.

The cycle of abuse continues which means that more people will get hurt. Verbal, mental, emotional, physical and sexual abuse can lead to stunted self-esteem, zero self-worth and distorted personality development. People who come out of toxic relationships may become numb and insensitive towards others because of their own trauma. Their own beaten and shattered self-esteem makes them bitter and angry. Their ability to form and maintain healthy personal relationships are destroyed as they may approach close personal interactions with fear of getting hurt because of their abusive past. Women and children especially children are more prone to abuse because they are innocent, naïve, financially dependent and powerless in an adult world. If children, teenagers and youth become dysfunctional then the future of any country, society and humanity is at jeopardy. “

 

Sambit Daspatnaik

 

Sambit Daspatnaik is a science fiction author, an artist, a software professional and a mentor. Sambit’s debut science fiction book, ‘The Last War & Other Stories’ is a best seller trending on Amazon and has received worldwide appreciation. He has also written several short or flash fictions in Authoropod magazine and co-authored in a poetry anthology ‘The Soul Hymns’ published by ‘The Creative Circle Official’.

Sambit has received many awards and recognition in the world of literature. Some of the key awards are Best Author 2023 Award by Authoropod Magazine, Inspiring Indians 2022, Author of the Year Award 2021, Tagore Commemorative Award in May 2021 & May 2022 and Sahityakosh Samman Award for Excellence in literary endeavours in Jan 2021 by ne8x Official group & Utkalika Excellence Award in May 2021. His other interests are painting and photography. 

Thoughts on Mental Health by Sambit Daspatnaik: Dealing with mental health needs a holistic approach.

For good mental health, one needs to look at life holistically. One needs to look at not only the mental factors but also the physical factors. It all goes together.

The physical aspect focuses mostly on the work life balance and following the biological clock cycle. This would encompass taking proper rest, having food on time, exercising, and following a reasonable work schedule in today’s hectic life. Having a healthy diet is as equally important as having food on time. It is important to minimise junk and high calorie diets as they have an impact on both our body and mind.

When we talk of the mental aspect, we need to ensure we balance our day with meditation, mindfulness and heartfulness. It is essential to spend some quiet time in the morning or at bedtime to help reflect on our own wellbeing. Apart from meditative silence, morning walks or jogs along with being in the present and enjoying the fresh air, feeling the heart rhythm are ways to follow mindfulness. As we connect with our higher purpose and dwell on our existence, we automatically tune into nature and heartfulness.

This approach helps us to manage and face difficult or toxic situations. Lastly, if nothing works, it’s always best to respectfully walk out of any toxic situation and move forward in life.

These pointers are like guard rails that help us in our lives to manage difficult situations in our life and maintain good mental health.

Most importantly, be grateful for everything that happens in life as it teaches us valuable lessons, either good or bad.

 

Kalamayee Alaka Daspatnaik

Smt. Alaka Daspatnaik, born in Odisha, is currently residing in Hyderabad. She is passionate about expressing nature and spiritual experiences through her writing. She has published several poetry books in Odia language and is a well know Odiya poet. Her book ‘Amabas ki Nayika’ was translated in Hindi by Padmashree Dr. Srinivas Udgata. She recently published her hindi poetry book ‘Abhilasha’ that has received wide appreciation. She has many awards in her three decades of writing. Some of the Key awards are: Kalamayee, Pallisheree, Kalinga Kavi, Kavi Surabhi, Kusuma Prabha, Kanta Kavi LaxmiKanta, Prakriti Kavi Kuntala Kumari Sabat and many more.

Thoughts on Mental Health by Smt. Alaka Daspatnaik: Engage in your passion to enhance mental health

Mental health care is crucial and essential for our overall well-being. In today’s hectic world, our work and responsibilities can take a heavy toll on our mental well-being. Disconnecting from our routine can help us maintain a healthy mental health.

For those who are not in the meditative and spiritual world, can do simple activities like spending a few minutes in silence to reflect within, and stay away from all distractions. Hobbies and creative outlets help us a lot as they serve us to work towards our life purpose and give us immense happiness and joy. Some of the hobbies like painting, writing, gardening, and a quiet walk in nature can help us to reconnect with ourselves and help us to unwind.

There can be setbacks, but it is important that we spring back and learn from every experience in life.

 Sushama Raj

 Sushama Raj is an Indian English Writer, Certified  Career Counsellor and Student Coach. She is the author of the book “BRAND YOU” which talks about redefining yourself she is awarded the LITRARY STAR AWARD 2023 organised by Cosmic Inception Publisherand  has been featured in Interview Times  as Top 10 writers of India 2023. 

She has been into poetry from a very young age. She has published 30+  in various poetry analogy such as Horizon of Wonders , Eternal Echoes and many more. 

 

Thoughts on mental health

Having worked with students and parents what I feel is Mental health, especially in children, is a critical aspect of overall well-being. It’s essential to pay close attention to a child’s mental health, as early intervention and support can have a significant impact on their future well-being. Factors like a supportive environment, open communication, and access to appropriate resources are vital in promoting good mental health in children. If you have specific questions or concerns about child mental health, feel free to ask, and I’ll do my best to provide guidance

 

 

 

Promila Devi Sutharsan Huidrom

 

Promila, is an expressive, eloquent Poetess with immense wit and humor. Promila was brought up in Pune, India and has been living in Norway since Jan 2005. Being a Pravasi Poetess and the only Manipuri Poetess writing in Hindi from Norway – has a profound passion for writing.

 

Her cogitative thinking has made her actively write since the age of 15 and after working as a Software Consultant and also having a degree in MSc – Innovation and Entrepreneurship from University of Oslo, Norway, she decided to take up writing professionally and sincerely.

 

Her 2 books “Mera to yeh mai bhi nahi” and “Ayushya” have been a great success and she is currently working on a few Anthologies and also her upcoming books.

 

Writing for her is not just coherent thinking but also deep analysis of thoughts jotted down in beautiful lyrical words. Life is words and words are music for her which she is in deep love with. 

 

Thoughts on Mental health by Promila

In India and even around the world, the moment – the talk about mental health comes, it is a taboo, people still think mental health cannot be openly discussed. It is like, we have a heart, and if someone has a heart problem, it has to be dealt with by a heart specialist, so is to the other organs and parts of our body. Similarly is the brain too, the problem in the brain is subtle and cannot be addressed so easily but a good psychiatrist or a psychologist can deal with it and help the person with the problem he or she is facing. It is a part of our body and in fact an integral part of our body. Mental health is equally  important for every human being, respect it and deal with proper measures.

 

Ashreeta Mohanty

 

She is an ITES professional having nearly 10 years of work experience in various domain. Currently she is working in an academic research and event management company in Odisha and staying with her husband in Adipur, Gujarat.

 

Writing is her hobby. Her endless love towards literature started from school days. She used to do guest blogging before in different websites about socio-economic issues, geopolitics, work-life balance, personality development, lifestyle etc. This journey has almost come to an end after her marriage. Due to the constant encouragement from her husband, she restarted her journey. And thanks to social media she could be a part of the writing community again. Now she is been associated with various publication houses and contributed as a co-author in some of the great anthologies. She is enjoying her writing journey in recent times and wish to explore more versatile opportunities.

 

Truly humble with this wonderfully amazing opportunity. Looking forward to many more impactful association with The International Literature Council for Women in the days to come.

 

My Thoughts on Mental Health: It’s okay to need help:

 

Prioritising mental well-being is essential for overall health and happiness. First and foremost, adequate sleep is fundamental for optimal mental health. Prioritising a consistent sleep routine is extremely essential. Similarly a healthy diet is equally important for mental well-being. 

In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining mental healthcare is crucial for overall well-being. Enhancing mental well-being involves taking proactive steps to promote emotional resilience, manage stress, and foster a positive mindset. 

In this digital age, constant connectivity can take a toll on mental well-being. Disconnecting from digital overload can help you maintain a healthy balance between your physical and mental health.

Likewise, engaging in hobbies and creative outlets can provide a sense of purpose, fulfilment, and joy which can act as a key to enhance mental health.Doing regular physical activity is not only beneficial for physical health but also plays a vital role for mental health.

Mindfulness and Meditation are powerful tools for promoting mental well-being. Embrace mindfulness. It can reduce stress, improve focus and increase self-awareness whereas meditation brings a sense of calm and inner peace.

 

Additionally, practising self-compassion and being kind to oneself helps in nourishing the mind.

Investing time and effort into fostering healthy and meaningful relationships is very crucial and in fact the key to being mentally fit in my opinion. Sometimes, professional help may also be necessary to address mental health challenges effectively. Therapy can help you cope with emotional struggles that are making it difficult for you to function well.

Stress is a common part of life, but excessive stress can definitely have a negative impact on us. Effective stress management techniques such as maintaining a healthy work-life balance, seeking social support, must be implemented in our lives, to get rid of stress, grief, depression and anxiety.

 

In the end, I would like to shed light on “Resilience“-the ability to bounce back from setbacks and adapt to challenging circumstances. In my point of view, this is the only way to deal with mental health issues. Everyone should try developing resilience. It involves cultivating a growth mindset, practising positive self-talk, setting realistic goals, and embracing change as an opportunity for personal growth.

 

Meera Bhansali adcovating her views 

Meera Bhansali, a Mumbai-based author and poet, has garnered acclaim in the realm of horror and psychological thrillers, with a specialization in gothic poetry. Her book “Speck” comprises a collection of dark poetry and her works has been featured in over twenty anthologies and ezines.She is the compilier and editor of the book “Letters to the Dark” an anthology by young writers, published during the Covid lockdown period giving the young minds an appropriate outlet for their emotions. As an advocate for mental wellness, she fearlessly addresses taboo issues relating to mental health in society. Meera actively participates in various literary groups, including the Literary Warrior group, Aspiring Writer’s Society, and Neelam Saxena Poet page. Her writings delve into the darker aspects of the human psyche, shedding light on the world of horror and psychological thrillers while also raising awareness about mental health and bringing important issues to the forefront.

 

Thoughts on mental health by Meera Bhansali.

Mental health is as important as physical health of a person. Mental illness like any other physical disease can affect anyone at any point of time in life. The trigger can be anything or even nothing . Mental illness is the psychological well-being of a person. Each person is different from the other,so each person suffering from it needs a personalised plan for treatment. Creating awareness, knowing the ailment, accepting it and also asking for external help need to be encouraged where mental health is concerned. It is nothing to be ashamed of. What may be fear for one may not be fear for another. Hence empathy is the biggest need of the hour along with proper knowledge to help create awareness of mental health.

ANUPAMA RAVINDRAN MENON 

Recently featured as “Uprising International Literary Figure of 2023” in the Malaysian National Television News RTM and also as “Multifaceted Journey of Modern Renaissance Woman” by The Holistic Pine International Magazine, Anupama is a medical doctor in the Armed Forces and a painter, who is also leaving prideful indelible marks in the world of contemporary writing. She believes that art enables human expression at its best providing a unique channel to explore one’s mind. She found her solace in practicing the art of medicine, Nature’s photography, painting and writing. Upon completion of her first solo art exhibition entitled “Hridhaya- The Language of Heartbeats”, she also championed the International Young Fine Artists Art Open Competition in 2023. Her writing journey begun in the middle of it all. After winning the International Short Stories Competition by Notion Press Publications in 2017, she was published as one of the authors in “Plotpourri – An Anthology” and then published her solo debut novel entitled “Dear Manusha”. Winning multiple hearts and accolades, she has also written several articles amongst many for International Women’s Literature Council, Panda Child Clothing and Interview Times etc. As a writer and doctor, but more so as an individual herself, she has a few thoughts to ponder on Mental Health. Let’s see her take on this growing issue: 

 

“Mental health is oftentimes underestimated when compared to physical health issues. Despite priding ourselves to be prodigies of the millennial age, it is deeply disturbing to think that we are still stuck in the stone age era of mindfulness of such occurrences. It is not a humiliation to be mentally unwell and so it isn’t embarrassing to have dear ones who are affected as well. Undeniably, it is a daunting journey for those who never realised its presence, mental illnesses slither into every creak of weakness available and feeds on the strength of our soul. Acceptance is the ultimate key to begin the healing process; it equates both the ill and the caregivers. With acceptance and understanding, love and compassion, any person can become stronger and better in no time. So, let’s say ‘No’ to stigmatising and say ‘Yes’ to accepting mental health!!! Make the right choice and make the difference.”

 

 

Prachi Sachdev – Authorpreneur, Poet and Content Writer

Prachi Sachdev, a prolific authorpreneur, brings a unique perspective to the vital topic of mental health as an accomplished writer and a compassionate human being. Her literary journey, which has produced several bestselling books and thought-provoking narratives, reflects a deep understanding of the human condition, emotions, and relationships. Through her writings, Prachi has the power to touch hearts and minds, making readers ponder the intricacies of life’s emotional landscapes. In her bestseller “Hey Girl, Yes You” and the Golden Book Award Winner “Dear Son, You Can’t Stay Little Always,” she undoubtedly delves into the realms of human emotions and interpersonal connections, a terrain often intertwined with mental well-being.

As an author, Prachi has the incredible ability to inspire introspection and self-reflection among her readers. Her words can initiate conversations, challenge stereotypes, and promote empathy — all of which are invaluable in the context of mental health. What sets her apart is her dedication to tackling various facets of life, from parenting and relationships to social taboos. In doing so, she underscores the notion that mental health is an integral component of our overall well-being. It’s not confined to clinical settings but is woven into the fabric of our daily lives, influencing our thoughts, actions, and relationships.

In essence, Prachi Sachdev’s contributions as an author beautifully aligns with the broader discourse on mental health. Her writings serve as a reminder that understanding, compassion, and the power of words can profoundly impact the way we perceive and address mental well-being in today’s complex world.

Prachi Sachdev’s Views on Mental Health

In the hustle and bustle of our everyday lives, mental health is often overlooked. While it has received much-needed attention in recent years, it still carries stigma and misconceptions. Nonetheless, it is an aspect of our well-being that is just as important as our physical health.

In a world that is characterized by constant change, high expectations, and ever-increasing challenges, taking care of our mental health has become a non-negotiable necessity. It is no longer a luxury but rather a need. Mental health is more than just the absence of mental illnesses; it is a condition of well-being in which a person can cope with daily challenges, function efficiently, and contribute to their community. It’s about striking a balance between the frequently turbulent emotions and thoughts that race through our heads.

Addressing mental health challenges doesn’t imply one is weak or “crazy.” It means acknowledging our fragility as human beings and understanding that seeking help when needed is an act of courage and wisdom. As we manage the challenges of modern life, we must cultivate a culture of empathy and mental health assistance. This involves not only asking for support when we are struggling but also being present for others who may be in need. Mental health is an issue that cuts across countries, cultures, and backgrounds. It’s a topic that affects us all equally. As we continue to dismantle the stigma associated with it, we pave the road for a world in which everyone can seek the treatment they deserve without fear or shame.

Nurturing our mental health is an investment in our happiness as well as the well-being of our communities. It’s a topic that, when openly discussed and understood, can change lives for the better.

Riddhima Sen expressing her views on this topic

 

Riddhima Sen is currently studying comparative Literature at Jadavpur University.  She is an author who has self published twenty solo books so far,has participated in thirty four anthologies .She has participated in eighteen exhibitions so far , alongside hosting ten workshops on content writing.  She had psychology as a subject while studying at school, and is keen on knowing more about mental health. 

Thoughts on Mental health by Riddhima Sen 

Mental health has often been a taboo in India . Is it really that hard to ask “How are you?”? Apparently,  this is something very mundane , but to a depressed person this phrase may mean a lot. Mental health issues like depression,  ptsd, anxiety attacks are quite spoken of in the current scenario.

With the outbreak of the covid-19  pandemic,  such issues came to light. If someone is going through a hard time , it is really important to consult professional help and voice out their opinions.

 

 

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