Life is not the same for everyone. People face a variety of challenges in life, impacting their mental health differently. Some individuals are able to recognize these issues and seek professional help, while others choose to manage on their own.
This story focuses on a woman in her 20s who sought counselling from Empower Pacific to address issues affecting her life and mental health. She learned about the non-government organization, which provides counselling and social work support services, from a friend and decided to visit the head office in Lautoka earlier this year.
She met with counsellor Aarti Akaansha, who initially assessed her situation before providing regular counselling assistance. The woman, referred to as the client, experienced panic attacks due to various challenging circumstances.
Her father had passed away a few years ago, leaving her with numerous responsibilities as the only child in her family. Additionally, she faced workplace issues related to her short-sightedness, and some colleagues made remarks about her complexion and eyesight. Relationship problems also troubled her mental state.
According to Ms. Akaansha, the client was undergoing another breakup at the time she sought counselling, further exacerbating her mental health struggles. She began drinking alcohol every evening after her recent breakup to help her sleep, a habit that formed as a coping mechanism.
The counselling sessions revealed that the client, a former social drinker, had resorted to alcohol more frequently to manage her distress. She experienced frequent panic attacks and even attempted self-harm. The loss of her father, her main support system, heavily impacted her emotionally. She also harbored concerns and blame towards her mother for the family’s situation.
Feeling overwhelmed by her work colleagues’ remarks and dealing with her relationship breakup, the client turned to Empower Pacific for help. Through counselling, she discovered her worth and capabilities and gained clarity on her mother’s supportive role.
She now employs coping mechanisms provided by the counsellor and can fall asleep without alcohol. She has also started a small business with her mother to supplement their household income.
Ms. Akaansha has conducted three counselling sessions with the client, and her case remains open for follow-up sessions. Similar situations affecting mental health are experienced by many, including men.
For those facing similar challenges, counselling support is available. Do not hesitate to call the Empower Pacific 24/7 toll-free counselling helpline 5626, supported by New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade.
AVINESH GOPAL is Empower Pacific’s media and communications officer based in Lautoka. The views expressed in this article belong to the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of this newspaper.