It is with deep reverence and heartfelt reflection that we present the following blogs, penned by Mr. Vinit Shetty. His insightful words encapsulate his remarkable journey through life. Though he is no longer with us, his words remain a testament to the profound journey through life, may his legacy continue to inspire and resonate with all who read them.
Author: Vinit Shetty
Content Creators:
Editor: Vrindashree Kumar
Illustrator: Vibha G Rao
Guest Contributors: Dr. Deepthi Kodath, Psychologist
From Resistance to Acceptance: Vinit's Story of Finding Support Through Counseling
"As a young child, I didn’t fully grasp the gravity of my condition,” Vinit Shetty recalls. “When I overheard a doctor say that sensory motor neuropathy was incurable, the reality hit me hard, and I felt a profound sense of loss.” Like many, he initially resisted the idea of counselling, especially because he had already received plenty of unsolicited advice. “I wasn’t convinced counselling could help. My mind was blocked, and I believed no one truly understood my situation,” he shares.
But eventually, Vinit’s sister, through patience and understanding, helped him see counselling as an option rather than a directive. She validated his feelings and encouraged him to give counselling a try. “Once I began attending sessions, I found they offered a much-needed space to express my bottled-up emotions without fear of judgement,” he says. Counselling became not only a release but a lifeline, helping him move forward.
Deepthi Kodoth: A Psychologist’s Insights on the Impact of Physical Challenges on Mental Health
1. Physical Challenges and Mental Health Intersection
"Physical challenges deeply impact mental health because our bodies and minds are so closely interconnected,” explains Mrs. Kodoth. She adds that limited mobility creates a sense of dependency, which often fuels feelings of shame, hopelessness, and frustration. Such feelings, if left unaddressed, can lead to behaviors like withdrawal, social isolation, and, in severe cases, depression and anxiety.
She points out that societal misconceptions can exacerbate these feelings. "For instance, persons with hearing impairments may avoid social gatherings due to communication difficulties, and others may interpret this as disinterest. Nudging individuals with the intention of encouraging them to interact without understanding their challenges can lead to deeper isolation and demoralization."
2. Limited Access to Mental Health Resources
Dr. Deepthi notes, “India faces a shortage of trained mental health professionals. As per recent data, there are only about 9,000 psychiatrists and 3,372 clinical psychologists for a population exceeding billion.”
Mental health resources in India range from Psychiatrists, psychologists & therapists in clinics and hospitals to online counselling platforms & self-help materials. Still, the accessibility gap, especially in rural areas, remains a hurdle. She advocates for more counsellors in schools, workplaces, hospitals to bridge this gap & suggests that educational material, support groups, & online resources can serve as helpful interim options.
3. The Role of Awareness and Systemic Change-
Dr. Deepthi emphasizes that awareness alone is not enough; a societal shift in attitudes toward mental health is essential. "The stigma attached to mental health makes people hesitant to seek help, often fearing judgement. It’s important to educate both medical professionals and the general public that seeking mental health support is not a sign of weakness but an essential step toward overall well-being."
4. Mental Health as a Core Component of Well-Being
“There is no well-being without mental health,” Dr. Deepthi asserts. True mental health goes beyond the absence of illness; it encompasses emotional resilience, life satisfaction, and the ability to face daily challenges. For Vinit, addressing his mental health has not only alleviated stress but also contributed to his physical recovery.
5. The Significance of ‘It’s Okay to Not Be Okay’
"Accepting our feelings—both good and bad—can be powerful," Dr. Deepthi says. “There’s a tendency to pressure ourselves to remain upbeat, but suppressing negative emotions only isolates us.” She shares that it’s a permission slip to recognize our humanity and seek help without shame. Dr. Deepthi, herself a mental health professional, has also turned to counselling at different stages of her life, finding it essential to face stress and setbacks.
6. Supporting Mental Health in Persons with Disabilities
She stresses the importance of empathy and inclusiveness, both at a personal and societal level. “Instead of unsolicited advice or motivational speeches, persons with disabilities need understanding and accessible environments that foster autonomy.” She advocates for proactive measures like accessible spaces in homes, schools, and public areas, along with specialized mental health programs that cater to their unique needs.
7. Social Relationships and Their Positive Impact on Mental Health
Human beings are social creatures, and positive relationships are essential to our mental well-being. “A strong support system provides resilience during challenging times,” she explains. For Vinit, his sister’s encouragement made a significant impact, allowing him to embrace counselling at his own pace. Having even a small network of understanding individuals can foster a sense of belonging, reduce risks of depression and anxiety, and strengthen overall health.
8. Counselling Support for Families
Families of persons with physical impairments often experience stress and burnout. Mrs. Deepthi underscores that counselling sessions for family members can provide them with coping tools, better communication styles, and emotional resilience. This can improve family dynamics and help them support their loved ones in a healthier way.
9. Advocating for Universal Design
"Disabilities can restrict participation, but thoughtful design can mitigate this,” she says. Mrs. Deepthi believes that creating accessible environments is essential for empowerment. “For instance, accessible bathrooms with grab bars and ramps enable individuals to function with autonomy, preserving dignity and independence.” She encourages architects and designers to prioritize accessibility, as it can enhance quality of life for those with disabilities and their families.
A Final Thought from Ms. Deepthi
“Vinit’s journey reflects remarkable courage. By sharing his story, he sheds light on the realities of living with a disability and the strength it takes to seek help. Stories like his inspire others to seek support, redefine resilience, and contribute to greater mental health awareness.”
Vinit’s experience, along with Ms. Deepthi Kodoth’s insights, highlights that while physical challenges are daunting, they can be managed with emotional support, acceptance, and a nurturing environment that values mental health.
As Michelle Obama said,
“Mental Health is not a weakness, seeking help is a sign of strength.”
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