The Mental Compass

This article emphasizes the integral relationship between physical health and mental well-being, highlighting that true wellness encompasses both. It encourages readers to nurture their bodies and minds together, illustrating how a harmonious balance enhances vitality, reduces stress, and ultimately leads to a fulfilling life. "Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live." – Jim Rohn Our heart pumps, and lungs rise and fall with each breath, reminding us of the miracle within. But without peace, what is strength? Without meaning, what is motion? A tired mind can weigh down even the fittest of the fittest, and a troubled soul can transform vitality into exhaustion.  On this World Health Day, we are reminded that well-being is not simply the absence of disease but a balance between mind and body. A healthy body feeds the soul, and a happy mind infuses life into each step taken. When one is nurtured, the other is cured. But in the rush of life, we forget this de...

This article explores the importance of understanding and embracing neurodiversity, particularly in the context of autism. It advocates for a shift in perception, encouraging inclusivity that respects differences rather than demanding conformity, and highlights the profound strengths that autistic individuals bring to society. Did you ever sit down and consider how much differently your life would have to be in order to encompass an autistic individual? “Autism is not a disability, it’s a different ability." – Stuart Duncan The standard handshake, background stimulation, or blaring lights are overstimulating for them. A  world where eye contact is intrusive, where words do not always arrive when you need them, and where the mere touch of fabric against your skin can be too much. Not only this, you are told over and over again that you must change and try harder to ‘fit in’, when all you're doing is attempting to survive in a world that wasn't created with you in mind. The ...

Happiness is a beautiful, radiant energy that fills life with warmth and laughter. It’s a well-studied state of mind you cultivate every day. And the best part? You enhance it! Happiness is like a donut — sweet, simple, and always better when shared. Have you ever wondered why some people radiate happiness while others look like they lost a fight with their own alarm clock? Well, happiness isn’t just random—it’s science! And the best part? You can hack it. Research by Mahakud and Yadav (2015) shows that happiness reduces stress, depression, and anxiety. Their study finds that fostering happiness in daily life strengthens coping abilities and enhances mental well-being. The Happiness Equation (Yes, There’s Math!) Researchers in positive psychology say happiness is a mix of three things: Genetics (50%) – Yes, blame your parents! Some people are naturally wired for joy, while others have to put in extra effort. Life Circumstances (10%) – Things like money, job status, and location matte...

DIRECTOR : SAMUTHRAKANI CAST : SAMUTHRAKANI, THAMBI RAMAIAH, VINODHINI AND OTHERS "Appa" is a poignant exploration of the psychological ramifications of differing approaches to parenting, set against the backdrop of Tamil Nadu. The film intricately weaves together the narratives of three fathers—Dhayalan, Singaperumal, and Nadunilayan—each embodying contrasting philosophies that shape their sons' lives. Dhayalan represents a nurturing, community-oriented mindset, emphasizing emotional intelligence and personal happiness, while Singaperumal's rigid obsession with academic achievement creates a high-pressure environment that tragically culminates in suicidal despair for his son, Chakravarthy. Nadunilayan's centrist philosophy promotes mediocrity as a means of avoiding judgment, reflecting societal pressures. The tension escalates as Dhayalan's more progressive approach faces backlash from both his wife and the traditional educational system, signifying the soc...

Mental health has emerged as a crucial aspect of overall well-being, particularly among young girls, who face unique societal pressures and emotional challenges. To combat stigma and promote mental wellness, fostering open conversations about mental health in this demographic is imperative. These discussions can help young girls articulate their feelings, develop coping strategies, and build resilience. Creating a safe space for dialogue is the first step in facilitating these important conversations. Schools, community centers, and families can play vital roles by establishing environments that encourage young girls to express themselves freely.  Workshops, support groups, and after-school programs can provide platforms where girls feel comfortable sharing their experiences. It’s essential that these spaces emphasize confidentiality and non-judgment to promote openness. Education about mental health is crucial. Many young girls lack awareness of mental health issues, often misinte...

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of mental health in educational settings, prompting educators to look for effective methods to foster positive mental health among students. One promising approach is the integration of Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) into curricula. SEL focuses on developing skills such as self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. By embedding SEL into school curricula, educators can create an environment that nurtures mental well-being and equips students with the tools to navigate life’s challenges. Research has shown that integrating SEL into educational practices enhances students’ emotional intelligence and resilience. These skills are critical for managing stress, building relationships, and cultivating a sense of belonging—factors that directly impact mental health. For instance, SEL programs help students recognize and regulate their emotions, which is essentia...

In family dynamics, the balance between parentification and responsibility is a delicate one. Parentification occurs when a child is forced to assume roles and responsibilities typically associated with adult caregivers, often leading to emotional trauma and an imbalance in family roles. On the other hand, fostering a sense of responsibility in children is essential for their development, teaching them accountability and life skills. The challenge lies in discerning when the expectation of responsibility transitions into the unhealthy territory of parentification.  Parentification can manifest in various forms, from emotional support to younger siblings to managing household chores. Children may feel compelled to step into caretaking roles due to a parent's inability to fulfill their responsibilities, whether due to mental health issues, substance abuse, or other challenges. This reversal of roles can lead to significant stress and anxiety for the child, who may feel overwhelmed an...

Fatherhood is often romanticized as a time of joy and bonding; however, many fathers encounter significant mental health challenges that largely go unspoken. The societal pressures tied to traditional fatherhood roles can lead to stress, anxiety, and depression, yet men frequently feel compelled to hide their struggles. This article endeavors to illuminate the mental health issues faced by fathers, delve into the stigma surrounding these challenges and underline the importance of seeking support. The burden of expectations on fathers is considerable, as they are often viewed as primary providers and protectors. This societal norm places immense pressure on men to meet financial, emotional, and physical responsibilities. According to a study in the American Journal of Men's Health , 50% of fathers reported feeling overwhelmed by parenthood's demands, resulting in elevated stress levels. Consequently, the pressure to succeed can catalyze feelings of anxiety and inadequacy, partic...

  Authored by Megha Bajaj with inputs from Priyanka Chadchan Megha Bajaj, National bestselling Author of several books, including, The Breakthrough published by Rupa Publications is also a TEDx Speaker, an author-mentor, an educator, and an ardent seeker. Her company WoW (Wonders of Words) conducts WoW Online Writing & Healing Workshops and the WoW 3Ls (Language + Life + Leadership Skills) Program which has impacted 1,50,000 students & counting. You bumped into this article and we are now wondering how far you will be able to stay on it and read it till the end. Because in the next few seconds you could immediately check your email, watch some news, switch to reading Facebook notifications, and scroll through Instagram reels - and while doing that you suddenly realize you have to text a colleague for work, you do that and wonder about the amount of work that needs to be addressed.  By the time you regain focus on a single thing (in this case this article), you have l...

  Has your daily routine been pushing your limits lately? Imagine it filled with spacewalks, floating naps, and eating from a pouch. Join astronaut Sunita Williams on her nine-month journey through space. Picture yourself floating in a spaceship—sounds exciting, right? Yet, in reality, it's far more complex. “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts." — Winston Churchill ​ Even a simple sneeze can send you tumbling in the cabin, with no up, no down, and no ground beneath your feet. Day and night blur as you orbit the Earth every 90 minutes, witnessing sunrises and sunsets in an endless loop. There's no fresh air, no direct sunlight on your skin, and no comforting home-cooked meals. Contact with loved ones is minimal; it's just you, your fellow crew members, and the vast, silent universe. From the window, Earth glimmers like a small blue marble below. Discipline and routine become essential for survival. "Teamwork is the...

  "Every IPL match is like a Bollywood blockbuster—thrill, drama, emotions, and a crazy audience." – Chris Gayle As cricket fans, we all know that the IPL isn't merely a game; it's a whirlwind of fervor, joy, and heartache that grips millions across the country. With every boundary hit and wicket taken, we ride the towering highs and gut-wrenching lows of this enthralling tournament. Join the journey as we explore how to survive the emotional tides of the IPL, embracing the thrill and camaraderie while keeping our sanity intact. After all, in this arena of passion, it's essential to remember that life goes on, whether our teams triumph or fall short! Consider this: Your team needs six runs off the last ball. Your heart races, and your hands fold in a silent prayer. The bowler steams in. The bat swings. The ball is hit and transferred to the fielder. Teeth grind against nails as your heart collides with adrenaline. It’s over. Emotions flood over you like a tidal wa...

Put the phone down, rainbow stars, Clouds guide night, nature’s light afar. Human connection is powerful, but today, it’s often interrupted by phone swipes and notifications. This behavior, called phubbing (phone snubbing), may seem harmless but can deeply damage relationships. Phubbing affects all stages of life, and Erik Erikson’s psychosocial development theory sheds light on its emotional consequences.  Research by Whelan (2020) shows that phubbing increases anxiety, loneliness, and depression for both the person using the phone and the one being ignored. It leads to frustration, sadness, and isolation, which can escalate into long-term mental health issues. Mindful phone use is key to preventing this harm and fostering healthier, stronger connections. Infancy (0-1 Year): Trust vs. Mistrust Babies are learning trust, relying on caregivers to meet their needs. If a caregiver is distracted by their phone, the infant may feel neglected, undermining their sense of security. Babies ...