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In the wake of the campaigns and hashtags around Mental Health Day, it is easy to forget that it is not a trending topic of the day but, in fact, a day-to-day struggle for many around the world. Hence, through this article, we are celebrating the strength that these individuals show.
Now, meet Emma (not her actual name). Just like lots of us, Emma had some grand dreams when she was a little kid. She aimed to be a photographer, travel the world, and freeze the best moments of life in her snapshots. The only thing she didn’t calculate for was her mental health struggles. Due to the lack of awareness, many of us either don’t notice little signs or don’t see them as problems to be dealt with.
Emma’s troubles began during her teenage years, but she ignored them as she just assumed that it was part of being a teenager. Riddled with anxiety, self-doubt, and negative thoughts, her nights turned into a battlefield where relentless thoughts waged war, robbing her of peaceful sleep. Her inner turmoil gradually started manifesting physically through hair loss, persistent headaches, and a perpetual stomach ache.
Despite all the obvious struggles, Emma kept it locked away from her family and friends. Ever since she was a little kid, society painted mental health as this big, mysterious secret, something to keep quiet and feel super awkward about. As a result, she decided to keep her emotions to herself. All this did was make her feel more alone in the journey.
But why? Why do so many people who struggle with mental health issues do not share their emotions?
It is mostly because they’re scared of not being understood or being judged. Because of this stigma, many don’t reach out for professional help. Emma’s experience reminds us that no one travels through life alone.
But soon, the struggles outweighed the stigma. As her anxiety continued to tighten its grip on her day-to-day life, Emma reached a breaking point where she could no longer ignore it. One day, a friend extended a compassionate hand and, through caring conversations, encouraged her to seek professional help.
With a mix of hope and anxiety, Emma visited a mental health professional, and that visit turned her life around. After a thorough evaluation, she was diagnosed with generalised anxiety disorder and depression. This was the turning point she had been desperately waiting for.
With the right support, treatment, and a network of loving and caring people, Emma began to regain control of her life. She figured out what helps her manage her anxiety, conquer negative thoughts, and finally get a peaceful night’s sleep. As her mental health improved, her physical symptoms gradually faded away.
Throughout her journey to recovery, Emma often found herself saying, “I wish I’d sought help sooner.” These words resonate deeply with many who have walked similar paths. Early diagnosis and intervention can prevent years of needless suffering and missed opportunities.
Mental Health Day reminds us that it’s about time we shatter the stigma encompassing mental health through understanding and shared experiences. It’s a day to speak your truth, an opportunity to forge a haven where individuals can openly tell their stories, free from the weight of judgement. Emma’s story represents the sheer strength in embracing vulnerability, the bravery it takes to seek help, and the hope that follows you on your path to recovery.
Had Emma not summoned the courage to seek help, she would have missed out on life’s most cherished experiences. The stunning photographs she always dreamed of capturing, the adventures to far-flung places, and the profound richness of her youth—all of these would have remained distant aspirations. Her story highlights the opportunities and experiences that can be lost when we neglect our mental health. Her achievements are no less just because she seeks support to help cope with her mental health. In fact, her achievements mean more now.
If Emma’s journey has any resonance for you, keep in mind that asking for help is a courageous and self-kind act. And if you know someone going through a similar road to Emma’s, be their rock, be there for them, and give them your unflinching support. Your comprehension can make all the difference for them as they fight one of life’s toughest fights.
Why wait until the symptoms manifest themselves? Why not take care of yourself every day? Let’s begin a new culture where we create a safe space for open dialogue at home and work. Where we don’t say, “I wish I had been diagnosed earlier.” Consult experts at Parul Sevashram Hospital, one of the best multispeciality hospital in Vadodara.
Emma’s experience underscores how vital it is to catch problems early on. It highlights the significance of acknowledging our mental health challenges, opening up about our own stories, and helping build a caring world where no one feels the urge to conceal their suffering. Let’s unite to bring this vision to life as we celebrate Mental Health Day.
Dr.Komal Patel serves as Member of the Governing Body in the University and Director. She’s eminent laproscopic surgeon , Gold medalist in Obstetric and Gynaecology as well as oversees smooth functioning of the Department in Parul Sevashram Hospital and she is actively involved in establishing and developing surgical departments in Parul Sevashram Hospital. She had worked as an Gynaecologist and Obstetrician in Parul Maternity Home in Baroda prior to joining Parul University.
Dr Geetika Madan Patel is a proficient doctor and administrator having pursued her MBBS and MD in Community Medicine with Gold Medal from the illustrious Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda. Currently she is the Member of Board of Governance and Medical Director of Parul University.She has played key role in the establishment of various medical institutions & hospitals in Parul University and is now heading Parul Sevashram Hospital.
Dr. Jagdish T. Gohil is the Dean at Parul Institute of Medical Sciences & Research. He has a vast experience of over 37 years in Obstetrics & Gynecology. He is an alumnus of Baroda Medical College. He has worked at the Government Medical College & SSG Hospital, Baroda in various capacities since 1988. He has been a UG & PG examiner at various universities in the country He is well known gynecologist has conducted many complicated surgeries during his tenure as Associate Professor at SSG Hospital, Baroda and still continues to do in spite of being the post of Dean. He has guided more than 30 PG students also more than 5 PhD. Scholars for their research. He has been an assessor for Medical facilities for the MCI at Medical Colleges & Hospitals. He has been a member of the PG council at the M.S. University of Baroda. He is life member of Indian Medical Association, Indian Association of Gynec Endoscopy, Life Member and Indian Menopause Society, life member of Indian Association of Gynec Oncology. He is active member of FOGSI since last 30 years. He had delivered many lectures in State and National Conferences.
M. No. : +91 9825151528
Email : medicaldean@paruluniversity.ac.in
Dr. Mrs. Kalpana R. Sulhyan is the Dean at Parul Institute of Medical Science & Research. She has teaching experience of over 34 years. She was selected as Professor of Pathology by Maharashtra Public Service Commission in 2000 and she has worked as Professor & Head of Pathology department in various Government Medical Colleges in Maharashtra State. She retired from Maharashtra State Department of Medical Education and Research on 31st August, 2019. She was recognized PG Teacher of Maharashtra University of Health Sciences and was PG Teacher for more than 80 PG Students of Pathology. In her guidance, Department of Pathology of GMC, Miraj received histopathological excellence award at state level many times. She has 65 National & International Publications. She was appointed by Maharashtra State Government as Officer on Special Duty for development of three new Government Medical Colleges at Latur, Akola and Kolhapur. She has worked as Assessor of Medical Council of India for many Medical Colleges for both undergraduate and postgraduate courses. She has worked as Dean of Government Medical College. She was selected as Dean by Maharashtra Public Service Commission.
M. No. : +91 9552012233
Email : medicaldean@paruluniversity.ac.in
If you have any query, please, feel free to contact us.
Please, note email address of our clinical research department cr.psh@paruluniversity.ac.in
Dr.Devanshu Patel, a dynamic, visionary and proactive leader, is President of Parul University. His unflinching commitment to the cause of education and whose continuous efforts for spreading the cause of education not only in Gujarat but also in different states of India and also in 49 different countries have resulted in more than 25,000 students pursuing their undergraduate, post graduate and doctoral degree programmes in 34 academic institutions offering more than 160 degree programmes.
Dr. Atul Kumar Saxena is a Medical Superintendent at Parul Institute of Medical Science & Research.Dr. A.K.Saxena, Medical Superintendent, brings to PSH a vast surgical experience of over 35 years in General Surgery. He is an alumnus of Baroda Medical College. He has worked at the Government Medical College & SSG Hospital, Baroda in various capacities since 1981. He has handled administrative duties as Medical Superintendent of 1500 bed SSG Hospital, Baroda, Additional Dean of Baroda Medical College and Head of EM Dept. He established the Department of Emergency Medicine at Baroda Medical College offering MCI recognised MD programme in EM. He has been on the selection boards of the UPSC & GPSC as subject expert. He has been a UG & PG examiner at various universities in the country and the NBE both for General Surgery & EM. He has guided more than 45 PG students for their research in General Surgery & Emergency Medicine. He has been an assessor for Medical facilities for the MCI and the NBE at Medical Colleges & Hospitals. He has been a member of the Senate and PG council at the M.S. University of Baroda.
M. No. : 9825177292
Email : atulkumar.saxena77687@paruluniversity.ac.in
Dr. Dipesh Duttaroy holds more than 38 years of rich and vast experience in General Surgery and is designated as Director – Post Graduate Studies and Professor in Department of General Surgery at Parul Institute of Medical Science & Research. He is superannuated as Professor and Head – Department of Surgery; Medical College Baroda and has also served in various capacities at Govt. Medical College Surat and M.P Shah Medical College Jamnagar. He has been Dean of students – Faculty of Medicine at The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda and as Postgraduate Guide in General Surgery for more than 50 students.
As an ex- member of the ethics committee of Medical Council of India and presently ethics committee member HMPCMCE Karamsad and IECHR Medical College Baroda; Dr. Duttaroy holds a dignified position as subject expert in the selection boards for UPSC and GPSC, Examiner at various universities, National Board of Examinations & has been an assessor for accreditation facilities for the MCI and NBE.
Ms. Ekta Modi represents Parul Sevashram Hospital as Chief Operating Officer. With a vast experience of about 18+ years, she is an expert in the field of administration, quality, branding and marketing along with patient centric approach !
She holds a doctorate in Management Studies along with MBA (Healthcare Management) and certified for MDP by IIM Ahmedabad and AIIMS Delhi