Category: Mental Health

Author: Ms. Keerthana Madhu, Volunteer, Ātmaprasāra

Six years ago, I was given an opportunity that quietly changed the way I look at life. During a phase when life itself seemed to be conducting one test after another, I came across an opportunity to volunteer as a counsellor at Ātmaprasāra.

I stepped into this journey with absolutely no background in counselling – only a deep curiosity and a genuine love for learning. Looking back today, I realise that what began as volunteering became one of the most transformative experiences of my life.

The training, combined with the opportunity to work with real-life cases, taught me lessons that no textbook ever could. I learnt the true meaning of empathy – to see the world through another person’s eyes, to listen without judgement, and to hold space for another human being with compassion.

More importantly, I discovered that true strength does not lie in appearing strong. It lies in being vulnerable, accepting ourselves as we are, and living with greater awareness.

As I continued to learn and apply these principles, I also found myself using them to navigate my own life’s challenges. Every situation became an opportunity to pause, reflect, and grow. In that process, I uncovered something even more profound, an understanding of my own limitations, my boundaries, and the unique ways in which I could express my strengths.

Today, I find myself more grounded, more accepting, and more connected to who I truly am than ever before. This journey has shaped not only my personal life but also my purpose of supporting parents and families with greater empathy and awareness.