It’s a widely known truth that not everyone is perfect, but what matters the most is owning up to your mistakes. Taking responsibility and making them right is the most courageous thing a human can do. Once you understand the depth of your doings and turn your paths around, each step will lead you to success. Seeking help to get your priorities straight helps you become the best version of yourself you can ever be.
Vimal Kumar is a high-spirited 35-year-old PhD scholar at IIT Palakkad, Kerala. His journey of overcoming personal challenges and finding his path inspires and enlightens everyone.
Vimal Kumar hails from Theni district, Tamil Nadu. After completing his engineering degree in 2010, he began a career as a lecturer in various self-financed engineering colleges.
Driven by the quest for knowledge, he pursued a master’s degree from 2013 to 2015. After graduating, Vimal worked as an assistant professor before starting his PhD in January 2024. Now in his third semester, he is deeply immersed in research on biomedical implants at IIT Palakkad.
“My research focuses on titanium alloys, known for their biocompatibility and strength, suitable for implants in the human body. In severe accident cases where bones are damaged, these implants can effectively replace the damaged bones.”
Vimal’s hobbies extend beyond academic pursuits. He enjoys farming, Googling, listening to music, and practising yoga. His ambition is to become an assistant professor at a reputed engineering college, which drives him to research biomedical implants—a promising area combining biomedical and mechanical engineering.
Vimal first heard about YourDOST through his college, which partners with the organisation as their official mental health provider.
“I heard about YourDOST from a workshop at my college and decided to approach them for my personal concerns, which took a toll on my mental health and my academics.”
Vimal’s journey wasn’t always as smooth as one would expect. He turned to therapy when he faced certain issues in his life and looked for help in the right direction.
Vimal came from a humble background and was the first in his family to graduate among three siblings, but his personal life saw turbulence despite these achievements.
Vimal is married and has a son, but he and his wife are now separated, which triggered a self-pleasure addiction, and he sought help at the right time. Hence, at YourDOST, he chose Ms Abhirami Narayan for relationship issues and Ms Janaki Swaminathan for the sexual wellness concerns he faced.
“I was dealing with addiction to self-pleasure, a habit that developed over the last two years due to my family issues and my separation. Ms. Janaki is helping me address this.”
Vimal was tinged with vulnerability and shame; hence, he decided to seek therapy for his concern. His family issues had left scars that reflected in unhealthy coping mechanisms. The separation from his wife, combined with the stress of academic responsibilities, pushed him towards addiction as a way to escape the emotional turmoil.
“Whenever I am alone, I feel a strong urge to go back to my old practices. To overcome this, I keep myself busy with my schedule and hobbies like volleyball and running.”
Counselling is a gradual process, and Vimal acknowledges that change takes time. There are moments when being around people of the opposite gender triggers his urges, but Vimal is learning to manage these feelings.
“Some days are better than others. But I am trying, definitely.”
Dealing with his addictions and emotional turmoil wasn’t easy. Vimal started incorporating meditation, yoga, and physical exercise into his daily routine.
“Whenever I feel overwhelmed, I practice meditation or engage in physical activities to redirect my mind.”
He also adopted several techniques to aid his recovery. Vimal practices the Pomodoro Technique for his research and studies—25 minutes of focused work followed by a 5-minute break. He also reads books like “Ikigai” and “Atomic Habits” daily.
“These activities bring positive changes. Going to the gym, interacting with friends, and spending time in the calm environment of the library makes me feel good.”
Talking about his concerns and sharing opinions has helped him figure things out more quickly. Interactive sessions with his counsellor made Vimal comfortable discussing about his issues.
Today, Vimal expresses deep gratitude to his therapists and the YourDOST team.
“All the therapists are extremely knowledgeable and dedicated. Their passion and dedication to helping me were incredible.”
Vimal rates himself 4 out of 5 in terms of feeling better. For him, improvement means being better than yesterday, as he believes every day is a learning process.
We at YourDOST are incredibly proud of Vimal and his journey. It takes courage to own up to and talk about your mistakes; hence, Vimal has been a warrior.
We wish him the very best in his future!
Vimal’s Warrior Tips:
1.“Keep a busy schedule and practice hobbies like sports to keep your mind occupied.”
2.“Don’t hesitate to connect with friends or medical professionals when feeling low.”
Are you someone who has gone through a difficult phase and emerged stronger and better, with some professional help? Share your story with us to encourage thousands of others who might be struggling. Click here to submit your story.
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