I am an undergraduate student in IITB, I am a homosexual man and I was aware of my sexual identity since my school days. Still, my life had been going good, until I began to develop intense romantic feelings for one of my hostel mate, who also used to be my good friend. I confronted him about my sexual identity and my feelings for him which eventually led to turmoil in our friendly relationship and this caused me to suffer through frequent phases of anxiety and depression. This was severely affecting my academics and my social life. Out of desperation I reached out to few people to help me. A senior recommended me to see Anisha ma’am (counselor working in student wellness centre, IITB). I followed his suggestions and hence started attending counseling sessions with her. From the first session, I felt extremely comforted by the tenderness and interactive behavior she had. She suggested me several psychological exercises/tricks to keep depression at bay and focus on productive works instead. I was also helped by her to figure out my key strengths and potential I have. Initially, I felt that the counseling sessions were not effectively helping me and I felt like quitting many times. But from time to time, the counselor (Anisha ma’am) kept encouraging me to not to give up and she also urged me to continue the counseling sessions. Her selfless concern for me and supportive behavior proved to be really helpful and helped me to deal with emotional struggles and keep constant focus on my key goals. I am really grateful to Anisha Ma’am and the student wellness centre IITB for helping me to become a more complete human.

?