"Be Empathetic, Helpful and Passionate About Everything You Do" - Amrita B. Kohli

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1. Tell us about your background and journey.

My name is Amrita B. Baruah Kohli. I am an Assamese girl born and brought up in Assam. I completed my higher studies in Psychology from Noida. After the completion, I started to work with children having disability as a psychologist. I am married to a Punjabi and I live in a joint family in Noida.

2. What led you to take up this career?

There are bankers, engineers, IT professionals as well as doctors but when it comes to working with children, that too children with disabilities, there are very few trained professionals who are able to work in this area efficiently. I always thought that this area needs more attention which led me to take up this career path.

3. What are some common myths in society about psychology?

A lot has changed in the past few years when it comes to understanding psychology in our society. There is an awareness of various psychological disorders because of social media. But it is not easy to change the fixed perception that people have when it comes to disorders like depression or anxiety.

People still fail to understand that depression is not about feeling sad only or earning disabilities are not only about lack of desire for studying nor does mental retardation mean that everyone has a low intelligence level only. These are some myths about psychology which still persist in society and need to be addressed with greater attention.

4. How can people practice mindfulness?

In this fast-moving world where everyone is running a race in their own individual track to reach somewhere in life, they forget to think about themselves through this course. Stress and anxiety have become part of life.

I think that everyone needs to take a break and practise mindfulness by taking out some time in a day. It is not necessary to practice mindfulness only through yoga and meditation. We can also practice mindfulness by surrounding ourselves with positive people, do the things which we like the most and also think positively.

5. What are your tips for people who want to practice this profession?

Firstly, Be a good listener. Be empathetic, helpful and passionate about whatever you do, be it in your profession or anything else.

6. Is work-life balance a myth or reality according to you?

Balance in any front is important. Be it in work or in life. If one is important the other is too. This realisation can lead one to do wonders in life.

7. How according to you can one manage stress?

Stress has become a part of our life. Stress can come in any form. So, managing stress should also become a part of our life as it becomes unavoidable. Firstly, having peace of mind is very important. Keeping calm will help us to make the right decisions.

Doing what you like the most can also help manage stress. Watch a movie, take some time alone to breathe, go on a holiday, switch off your phone every once in a while, go for a walk/run, have your favourite snack, talk to someone who makes you smile and it is always good to share your thoughts with someone whom you trust and who understands you well.

Interview by - Suhani Mangleek