The first time, I visited the Student Wellness Center IIT Bombay when I was in the 4th year of my PhD. I am writing about my counselling experience during those days. At the end of my PhD degree, I had to deal with lots of professional tasks in a limited time frame such as papers writing, different presentation, dealing with supervisors, and paper rejection etc. Because of this hectic routine, I was in anxiety. Initially, the anxiety level was low, but with the time it increased a lot.  Due to this, I was unable to sleep properly and work efficiently. Then I decided to consult with a doctor for the same. The doctor stared some medicine and suggested me to meet Counsellor to overcome these problems. After doctor suggestions, I felt that I am mentally unstable, that’s why I have to meet a counsellor. Due to this feeling, I was not willing to meet any counsellor, but my wife insisted me to meet counsellor once. She said if you feel this is not useful, we will not go for the next meeting. Finally, my wife and I went to meet the student counsellor. That’s how I met Hima Ma'am and discussed my problems with her. After the first meeting, I realised that counselling is utterly different than my previous perception. After that, I was regularly meeting with Hima Ma’am till the end of my PhD. The one and a half year I spent listening to, and implementing her advice were excellent, passed by as my best academic year at IITB. Now, I can say that I am more hard-working, more serious towards my career. This counselling has given me enough confidence.

I would like to thank my counselling psychologist (Hima Ma’am) and Student Wellness Centre@ IITB, for listening to my problems patiently.

Again, thanks a lot for all you have done for me.