Subhechcha Ganguly 
Tushar Kiran Moodgal, an award-winning poet and writer from Shahdara, East Delhi, blends romanticism, gothic elements, and philosophical reflections in his works. A deep believer in Stoic philosophy and the teachings of the Geeta, he uses his writing as a platform to explore and advocate for mental well-being.
1. How do you think writing can help individuals deal with mental health challenges?
Ans: I believe writing serves as a powerful tool for self-expression, allowing individuals to articulate emotions that might otherwise remain suppressed. It creates a safe space where one can confront and process their inner turmoil without judgment. I can tell you from my personal experience that for someone dealing with mental health challenges, this act of putting feelings into words can be cathartic, providing clarity and fostering a sense of control over their emotions. I have gone through some very personal episodes of heartache and loss and had it not been for a paper and a pen, I don’t know how I would have recovered from the trauma. Writing helps in identifying patterns in thoughts and behaviours, enabling individuals to understand the root causes of their struggles. Moreover, the act itself can be meditative, offering moments of calm amidst mental chaos.
2. As someone whose poetry evolved from themes of heartache and anxiety to philosophical reflections, how do you feel that writing has been a personal outlet for your mental health journey?
Ans: Writing has been nothing short of a lifeline for me. In my early days, my poetry was a mirror to my own heartache and anxiety, a raw expression of pain and longing. It was my way of making sense of overwhelming emotions and channelling them into something tangible. Over time, as I grew both personally and philosophically, my writing began to reflect this transformation. Themes of resilience, acceptance, and introspection emerged, mirroring my journey toward healing and understanding. Writing allowed me to explore not just my struggles but also universal truths, helping me find peace within myself. It’s been both a companion in my darkest hours and a guide toward the light, something which is quite evident in my debut book ‘Lamentations’ .
3. Do you believe there’s a therapeutic quality in putting one’s emotions and thoughts into words, and if so, how has this benefited your own mental health?
Ans: Absolutely, writing is inherently therapeutic. When you articulate your emotions and thoughts, you externalize them, which can make them feel less overwhelming. For me, writing has always been a way to navigate the complexities and chaos which plagued my mind. It has provided me with clarity and perspective, helping me identify triggers and work through them constructively. The act of writing also serves as a release—a means to unburden oneself of pent-up emotions. There is immense relief in seeing your thoughts take shape on paper, as it often leads to new insights and resolutions that might otherwise remain obscured in the whirlwind of the mind.
4. How can creative expression, like poetry or writing, aid in understanding and processing mental health struggles such as depression or anxiety?
Ans: Creative expression allows individuals to explore and process their emotions in a manner that feels natural and personal. Poetry, for instance, provides a framework for delving into complex feelings, offering both structure and freedom. For someone experiencing depression or anxiety, this can be particularly beneficial. It helps in breaking down overwhelming emotions into manageable pieces, facilitating a better understanding of one’s mental state. Additionally, creative expression can serve as a bridge between the inner self and the external world, enabling individuals to communicate their struggles in ways that resonate with others. This act of sharing fosters connection and reduces feelings of isolation.
5. In your opinion, how can writers and poets use their craft to raise awareness and encourage open conversations about mental health?
Ans: Writers and poets have a unique platform to shed light on mental health issues by sharing authentic and relatable experiences through their work. By addressing these themes, they can normalize conversations about mental health and challenge the stigma surrounding it. Storytelling, whether in prose or poetry, has the power to evoke empathy and understanding, making readers more aware of the challenges faced by those struggling with mental health. Furthermore, writers can use their craft to advocate for mental health initiatives, creating content that educates and inspires action. By fostering dialogue, they can create a ripple effect, encouraging others to share their stories and seek help.
6. What advice would you give to someone who is struggling mentally but is hesitant to express themselves through writing?
Ans: To anyone hesitant about expressing themselves through writing, I would say: start small and without judgment. Writing doesn’t have to be perfect or polished—it simply needs to be honest. Begin with a few words or sentences that capture your current emotions, and let the process guide you. Remember, this is for you alone; there’s no pressure to share it with anyone unless you want to. I have been writing since my childhood days but it was fairly recently that I began sharing my work with the world through Instagram and subsequently through publishing. So there is no pressure. Its your art and the first audience and the most important one is you yourself. Everything else is secondary. In the same vein writing can be a private sanctuary where you confront your thoughts without fear. Trust the process—it’s not about being a great writer but about finding a medium that helps you understand and navigate your emotions. Over time, you may find that this simple act becomes a source of comfort and clarity.
