Haran R P, Bangalore (2025)

25/09/2025

Observing Mental Health Awareness Days: More than Conventional Observation

Mental health awareness days, like World Mental Health Day, are often marked by events, posters, and general mental health awareness talks. But to truly make an impact, such observances must go beyond formality. They must be intentional, community-specific, and emotionally relevant.

In educational institutions, especially among school and college students, the mental health landscape is constantly evolving. Adolescents today face a unique blend of academic pressure, social comparison, lifestyle imbalance, and emotional vulnerability. Generic conversations aren’t enough. What they need are initiatives that speak to their lived realities.

This year, St.Joseph's Indian Composite PU College and St Joseph's Indian High School chose to mark World Mental Health Day with two focused themes that are rooted in a real concern observed among our student community:

The first addressed the connection between food preferences and mental clarity, especially the unnoticed but significant impact of junk and fast food on students' focus, mood, and academic performance.

The second acknowledged the emotional toll of losing a peer and took a compassionate approach to rebuild hope and resilience, dismantling the notion of ending life as a solution.

What stood out wasn’t the number of sessions or the quality of presentations, but the fact that these themes emerged from real observation and need. Students didn’t just attend; they engaged. They reflected. Some of them even reshaped their own perspectives, whether about food habits or the value of seeking help.

Observing days like this should not be about ticking boxes. Instead, they are opportunities to pause, listen, and respond. By customising, we are saying, “We see you, we hear you, and we care about what matters to you right now.”
This approach fosters deeper student engagement, Early awareness and intervention before issues escalate, A sense of safety and openness to talk about mental health without fear or stigma, Long-term mindset shifts, not just event-day motivation

Mental health observances become impactful when we stop generalising and start personalising. As counsellors, our role is to bring mental health closer to our students’ world, not as a theory, but as a lived experience. And by doing so, we don’t just mark a day, we spark a movement.

Thank you, Ms Mana Shah, Ms Merlin Michelle Dsouza, Mr Srinath Pappu Ms Khubi Jain, Ms Khushi Srivastava, and Mr Mithun Karthikeyan from Christ university kengeri campus for volunteering to facilitate these sessions.

09/03/2025

Promoting Well-being in Educational Institutions

It was an enriching experience to represent in the Poster Presentation and Live Poster-Making Competition conducted by the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Bangalore (NIMHANS) on instilling well-being in educational institutions. I had the privilege of representing St. Joseph's Indian Composite Pre-University College and St.Joseph's Indian High School, with students from both institutions showcasing their enthusiasm and knowledge alongside participants from other schools.

What made this competition truly special was witnessing students go beyond textbook learning to explore the practical applications of psychology in real-life school settings. In India, applied psychology at the school level is not always emphasized, making experiences like these crucial for real-time learning and exposure.

A highlight of the event was Prof. Dr. Seema Mehrotra, the coordinator of this youth engagement initiative, who took the time to break down complex psychological concepts for students struggling with technical terms. Her approachable and student-centred approach ensured that the competition remained a learning experience rather than just a contest. I truly appreciated her efforts, which is why I made sure to capture a moment with her!

During our extended lunch break, the students explored the Nimhans Bengaluru Heritage Museum and Brain Museum, where they engaged with interactive exhibits and real human brain specimens. This hands-on experience deepened their understanding of mental health care and neuroscience, making learning both exciting and impactful!

With great preparation and teamwork, I’m proud to share that:
The St.joseph's Indian Composite Pre-University College students secured First Place in the Live Poster Making Competition and St. Joseph's Indian High School students received a Special Mention for their efforts!

A huge thanks to the Positive Psychology Unit under the Department of Clinical Psychology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, for this wonderful initiative. Grateful for the support from Microsoft India & Indian Council of Medical Research(ICMR), New Delhi, and appreciation to the organizing team and Jomy T Jose for their coordination till the last moment.

To add to the joy, I also got to reconnect with my post-grad classmate and friend, Amoolya C A, who was representing another institution. Catching up after a long time and seeing how far we have come professionally was a cherry on top!

This experience reaffirmed the importance of engaging students in hands-on psychology activities, fostering deeper understanding, and encouraging collaborative learning across institutions. Looking forward to more such impactful engagements!

16/02/2025

Vartah 3.0

I had the incredible opportunity to participate in Vartah 3.0, a two-day National School Counsellors' Summit organized by GD Goenka University in collaboration with Fortis Healthcare. The event, held at GD Goenka University, Delhi NCR, brought together professionals and experts to discuss the pressing issue of the pressure of competitive exams and the alarming rise in student su***des. Experts shed light on the critical role of school counsellors in providing emotional and academic support to students navigating these challenges.

The summit featured insightful panel discussions and guest seminars by esteemed speakers, each offering valuable perspectives on mental health interventions in educational settings. They also emphasised how parents, schools and media are the main culprits behind the students' su***de. The discussion on how empathy with responsibility, effective coping mechanisms and non-judgemental space will support students was brought up smoothly without offending the stakeholders. I appreciate the efforts of the speakers in highlighting the best practices that reinforced the importance of early intervention, emotional well-being, and holistic student support in schools.

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Prof Dr Kim Menezes, Vice Chancellor, Dr. Anjali Midha Sharan, Dean, School of Liberal Arts and GD Goenka University for their generosity in providing me with this opportunity to participate in this summit.

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09/02/2025

Exploring Qualitative Comparative Research: A Learning Experience

I had the opportunity a year ago to be a part in organising an international workshop lead by Dr Leemamol Mathew, Associate Professor at Christ University, Kengeri Campus Christ University, Bangalore. The workshop featured esteemed speakers, including Dr Erika Gubrium, Dr Alejandro Miranda-Nieto, Dr Gustavo Sugahara from OsloMet - Oslo Metropolitan University, and Dr Sony Pellissery from the National Law School of India University, Bangalore.

The focus of the workshop was Qualitative Comparative Research (QCR)—a topic that truly piqued my interest. Traditionally, comparison has been a term closely associated with quantitative research, but this workshop shed light on how comparative methodologies can also be effectively applied in qualitative studies. It was an insightful experience that broadened my perspective on research methodologies.

Grateful for the enriching discussions and the opportunity to learn from such distinguished experts!

26/01/2025

SEEDING INTEREST IN LEARNING

Engaging students in a classroom can sometimes be a challenging task, especially when you're trying to teach abstract concepts. Recently, I was teaching my PUC students about Methods of Inquiry in Psychology specifically, the observation method and its various types like controlled, laboratory, participant, and non-participant. It was the last hour of the day, and as you might expect, the energy in the room was low, and the interest level wasn’t particularly high.

The next topic on the syllabus was Developmental Psychology. While discussing it, I realized that even though my students had experienced their own childhood and were now navigating adolescence, they struggled to see the differences in behaviours, maturity levels, and perspectives between these stages. They felt there wasn’t much to explore. Childhood seemed so simple to them.

To break this perception and make the session engaging, I decided to take the class outside the traditional four walls. I took my PUC students to the primary school playground during dismissal time, the moment when little kids were running around, heading home after the final bell.
I gave my students a simple task: OBSERVE. Observe the behaviours, interactions, and actions of these young children, which they wouldn’t see themselves doing now. Soon enough, the students were fully immersed, observing and even laughing at the kids’ antics. After the session, I asked them to share their observations.

Their insights were fascinating:
- “Kids were choosing friends based on sharing snacks.”
- “They ran down the corridors without any hesitation.”
- “They shouted and called their friends without caring about who was watching.”
- “They got their shoes dirty and didn’t seem to mind.”
- “They didn’t feel embarrassed about being loud or playful.”

It was heartening to see their perspectives shift as they reflected on these behaviours. I reminded them that they, too, were once like this and not too long ago. What seemed funny at first soon turned into a moment of self-realization.

This was the perfect opportunity to connect it back to Developmental Psychology. I explained how these seemingly trivial behaviours are significant in understanding developmental stages and how the observation method helps us study such transitions and patterns in psychology.

That session wasn’t just about teaching; it was about creating a moment of connection, reflection, and understanding. Sometimes, learning happens best when we step outside the classroom and let real-life experiences do the teaching.

26/12/2024

MEMORABLE LUNCH HOUR

As a student counsellor at PU College, I strongly believe that interacting with students beyond the walls of the counselling room is essential to building trust and breaking the stigma around seeking help. But let’s be honest, it’s not an easy job! You need to work hard to gain their acceptance and make them feel comfortable.

Here’s a light-hearted yet thought-provoking incident that I’d like to share from one such interaction.

One lunch hour, a group of students barged into my cabin and sat just to chat. I told them I was busy with some work, but teenagers being teenagers, they didn’t give up. What happened next took me by surprise. They were just talking among themselves, and suddenly, they decided to turn the tables on me and “diagnose” me as a counsellor!

They grabbed a red pen from my desk and started role-playing as counsellors. One of them asked, “You look tired. What’s the reason?” Another quickly chimed in, joking, “It must be depression.” Then, they started analyzing possible reasons for my “tiredness,” using the counselling terminologies they’d picked up during their sessions with me.

In a grand finale, they scribbled down their “diagnosis,” changed their names for “confidentiality” (with made-up signatures to match), and gleefully “certified” me with their findings.

While this playful interaction might make some wonder if it crosses professional boundaries, I see it differently. For me, it’s a testament to the kind of rapport I aim to build with students. Moments like these show that they see the counselling room not as a sombre, serious place but as a safe space where they can engage, express, and even laugh.

And the beauty of such moments? These same students will go out and share their experiences with their peers, spreading the word that the counsellor is approachable, relatable, and, yes - FUN! This, in turn, helps break the stigma surrounding counselling among the student crowd and encourages more of them to reach out when they need help.

As a counsellor, I feel it’s essential to balance professional seriousness with moments of light and loose chats with students. These informal connections help foster trust and normalize the idea of seeking support. Therapy rooms are not just spaces for mourning or tough conversations. They can also be places where students find joy and leave with a smile. So, next time a group of students starts joking around with you, remember it might just be their way of saying, “We trust you.” And isn’t that what counselling is all about?

Let’s continue building those bridges and breaking those barriers, one conversation at a time.

15/12/2024

Classes Beyond the Classroom: Unconventional Approach

Traditional classroom setups are no longer enough to captivate today’s students. With so much variety and innovation in every aspect of their lives, why should education remain same to 4 walls and regular methods? As an educator, my belief is simple: students should love to attend my class.

To make this work, I’ve adopted unconventional methods in my classes, and the results have been surprising! Some of my practices in class are:
1. Freedom in Learning
Students can sit wherever they want. If a student doesn’t feel like participating in the discussion for the day, they can sit on the last bench and have their own time (as long as it doesn’t disturb and isn’t a recurring habit - not more than 2 classes in a week)
2. Catering to Basic Needs
Missed breakfast or hungry before lunch? No problem! They are allowed to eat quietly in class because let’s face it—no one can focus while thinking about food
3. Balancing Time
In a 55-minute class, I teach for 40-45 minutes and leave the rest to interact and connect with one another. In their busy time, students rarely get time to build rapport with their peers, which builds teamwork and communication skills. (We all know the truth that expecting an ideal condition of 100% attention throughout the class is not at all possible)
4. Encouraging Curiosity
Students are free to stop the lecture at any time to ask questions—whether they’re relevant to the topic or not. This sparks curiosity and often leads to very interesting discussions!

Of course, these practices might concern discipline, but my approach focuses on understanding classroom dynamics rather than forcing rigid rules. Sometimes I handle disruptions by
- Walking around the class and engaging with students, mainly troublemakers.
- Talk friendly or involve them by asking some questions instead of shouting
- Using examples of their behaviour in class with humour to explain psychological concepts (by mentioning the trouble makers name) —making the class both relatable and fun

The result?
- Happier, more engaged students
- Improved participation in both curricular and co-curricular acts
- Boost in attendance, even during extra sessions
- And yes, better academic performance!

As educators, we need to adapt to the changing needs of students. Today’s learners crave variety, flexibility, and a sense of belonging in classroom. Creating academic interest among them isn’t easy, but when we meet them where they are, it transforms both their learning experience and our teaching journey.
I’ve found that standing with the students rather than against them has helped me reach my goals as a lecturer. And nothing is more fulfilling than seeing a student develop a genuine interest in learning—not just for the subject, but for life itself.
Let’s continue to evolve and inspire the next generation of learners!

09/12/2024

Faculty Development Programme on MENTORING AND COUNSELLING

I had the privilege of attending a Faculty Enrichment Programme on Mentoring and Counselling, organized by St.joseph's Indian Composite Pre-University College for all its lecturers. The initiative stems from the institution's core belief in the transformative power of mentorship, where teachers can connect with students beyond the confines of the classroom, understanding their lives, challenges, and aspirations.

Having worked closely with educational institutions, I’ve observed how metropolitan cities like Bengaluru bring unique challenges for students, ranging from family-related issues to peer pressure. Mentorship plays a vital role in identifying these concerns early on and offering guidance or support to help students navigate them.

The Jesuit education model has always emphasized holistic development, and this mentoring program perfectly aligns with their vision. Through this initiative, teachers can actively screen and identify students who may require additional support and refer those with more intense concerns to the counseling department for professional help.

The session was skillfully conducted by Dr. Rekha R Ahuja, Coordinator of Samagra - St Joseph’s Holistic Wellness Centre. Her insights and expertise in the field provided us with valuable tools and perspectives to better support our students, especially in these increasingly complex times. Kudos to St Joseph’s Indian Composite PU College for taking this impactful step towards enhancing faculty-student relationships and addressing student well-being with such care and thoughtfulness.

Here’s to fostering stronger mentor-student connections and contributing to a healthier, happier student community!

18/11/2024

CONDOLENCES TO PROF GESSMANN

I feel an immense sense of loss as I share the sad news of the passing of Prof Hans-Werner Gessmann, a renowned German psychologist and founder of humanistic psychodrama. I know that there is a huge delay in writing this post, but I would like to share and remember a few moments here. My journey with Prof. Gessmann began back in 2020 when we first connected online. I was both thrilled and humbled when such an esteemed figure in the field of psychology not only responded to my emails but also engaged in thoughtful discussions with me. His kindness and willingness to share his insights left a lasting impression on me.

In 2023, I had the privilege of meeting him in person when he visited Bangalore. It was an unforgettable experience. My colleagues and I had the opportunity to engage in an enriching hour-long conversation with him, where we discussed a wide range of topics, including emotions, psychodrama, the real-time implications of psychological practices in India, and the current challenges in the field. I felt deeply grateful for the wisdom and warmth he shared during that conversation.

Sadly, Prof. Gessmann passed away just a few days after our meeting. It is truly heartbreaking to lose someone of his calibre, but I will always remember our interaction with profound gratitude. His impact on the world of psychology and on me personally will never be forgotten

My condolences go out to his family, colleagues, and everyone who had the privilege of learning from him. Thank you, Prof. Gessmann, for your incredible contributions to the field and for your kindness. Your legacy will continue to inspire and guide us all. Rest in peace.

01/11/2024

PSYCH-ED QUIZ COMPETITION

A huge appreciation to the 18 enthusiastic teams of 45 students of St.joseph's Indian Composite Pre-University College who participated in PSYCH-ED Quiz Competition, which was conducted in observance of World Mental Health Day by Fortis Healthcare Hospital and GD Goenka University l. It was inspiring to see the students’ dedication even during their mid-term examinations.

A heartfelt thank you to Fortis National Mental Health Program and GD Goenka University for organizing this impactful event and providing a platform to engage and cultivate interest in young minds. Additionally, I’d like to extend my gratitude to the management for permitting the event and Ms Saritha Roshan, Coordinator of the Humanities Department, Mr Vinod Joseph, and Ms Anika D’Souza for supporting us in the flawless conduct of the competition.

20/10/2024

INTERNATIONAL WORKSHOP ON COUNSELLING AND PSYCHOTHERAPY: PRACTITIONERS SPEAK

I feel incredibly glad and honoured to have been a speaker at the International Workshop on Counselling and Psychotherapy organised by Christ University, Bangalore Kengeri Campus held on August 20th, 2024. I had the privilege to share my insights on the topic of School Counseling: What Happens Beyond the Counselling Room. My presentation focused on the practical problems that every beginner finds in their roles in the field and how school counselling is not limited to the therapy room.

The feedback I received from participants truly humbled me. Many found the interactive and practical aspects of my session to be insightful and valuable, and it’s rewarding to know that the experiences I shared resonated with so many of you. Several attendees highlighted the engaging and real-life applications discussed during the session, which made the experience all the more meaningful for me as a counsellor and speaker.

A heartfelt thanks to Dr Leemamol Mathew and the Department of Psychology, Christ University, Kengeri Campus, for organizing this workshop and for giving me the opportunity to present on such an exposure-filled topic. Your unwavering support and leadership made this event possible, and I am truly grateful!

Additional thanks to Mr Saswat Pattnaik and Ms Mana Shah for offering the technical support during the workshop.

12/05/2024

VILLAGE AND NGO VISIT

I had the privilege of accompanying students from St.joseph's Indian Composite Pre-University College on a transformative village and NGO visit organized by Ms Apeksha Paul, Sociology Lecturer. It was truly a great experience for our students, hailing from the bustling metropolitan city of Bengaluru, to immerse themselves in the vibrant culture and community spirit of a rural village.

During our visit, students had the opportunity to explore various facets of village life, including bustling village markets, local schools, and primary healthcare centres. One of the highlights was our interaction with an inspiring NGO that works tirelessly to uplift underprivileged women and support local schools.

Witnessing the NGO's innovative ice-breaker activities with government school students and visiting the NGO's workplace provided students with insight into their impactful initiatives. Interacting with the villagers and engaging in pot-making activities fostered a deeper connection and understanding of rural life. Our students were particularly moved by the insightful address from the NGO director, which sparked meaningful discussions and reflections.

This experience was invaluable for our students, allowing them to step out of their comfort zones and gain a firsthand understanding of sociological concepts in action. By witnessing grassroots initiatives and community engagement, students gained a deeper appreciation for the social dynamics and challenges faced by marginalized communities.

I extend my heartfelt appreciation and big kudos to our sociology lecturer Ms Apeksha Paul for orchestrating this insightful visit, which undoubtedly broadened our students' horizons and enriched their academic journey. This was first of this type organised for sociology subject. Additional thanks to the Prinicipal, Vice-Principal, Management and Ms Saritha Roshan, Coordinator of the Department of Humanities. Here's to more experiential learning opportunities that empower our students to become compassionate and socially conscious global citizens.

Haran R P

25/09/2025

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