Sci-Minds Series on “Emotional Well-Being in 2023”

The Department of Science and Humanities conducted two sessions as a part of their Sci-Minds Series on  May 13, 2023 for the students of First Year Engineering. The focus this year was on the field of Psychology, and the target area was Emotional Well-Being. The event was coordinated by Dr. Kala Nayak, Professor, Registrar and Head of the Department of Science and Humanities, and Ms. Avila Naik, Training and Placement Officer, Department of Science and Humanities.

The first speaker was Dr H.L. Sudarshan, a Rehab Psychologist with over 10 years of medical practice. Besides his primary area of focus, he is actively working towards incorporating the Indian Knowledge System in psychotherapeutic procedures; and exploring AI assisted interventions in mental health. An interactive and intriguing presentation on “Core Fear of Social Anxiety: Judgement” was given by him. A brief awareness of the CBT apps available, Anxious Thought-Diffusion techniques, alongside an in-depth knowledge of the basis of social anxiety comprised his one-hour talk. The audience had questions on the underlying fears they faced, and inquired about the ways of dealing with the same. Dr. Sudarshan’s efforts were appreciated by all and our gratitude was articulated by Mr. Harison Cota, Assistant Professor, Department of Science and Humanities.

The post-refreshment session was headed by Dr. Veena Kantak, Consulting Psychologist and ex-executive member of the Goa IPS Committee. Dr. Veena’s approach to her topic, “The Time is Now for Mental Health & Well-Being,” was largely activity and interaction-based. She shed light on the discourse surrounding mental health in recent times. She related to the audience, presenting real-life situations to ponder upon. A list of recommendations were made by Dr. Veena, which would aid the students’ approach towards various life-problems. It consisted of activities such as having a gratitude journal, meditating, and socialising. Students’ questions on facing rejection, procrastination, and the general stigma around mental health were answered by the speaker. Dr. Avila Naik extended our gratitude towards Dr. Veena Kantak and concluded the event on a thoughtful note, emphasising on the role of a healthy mind in living a fruitful life. The session ended at noon.

A gist of the event could be articulated by a quote of Dr. Veena Kantak: “…it’s like driving a car. We should be in command of our mind and not let it drive us.”