Exploring the emotional toll on mental health professionals
ANJU Vivekanandaraj is, in simple terms, an extraordinary woman. Hailing from South India, Anju is now a therapist who has been living in Guyana for six years and practising for the last five years. Her journey did not begin as most may expect. Her family did not initially support her aspirations of joining the field of psychology. Some years later, however, with her life taking new turns, Anju decided it was time to take her dreams into her own hands. She told Pepperpot Magazine that, “It was something I was not much encouraged. But psychology and mental health [are] some things I have had an interest in for many, many years. After my marriage, I left my teaching job, and I had my daughter. That was when I had to decide if I wanted to go back into that field because I was not happy in that field.”
After some time at home, Anju acquired her Master’s in clinical psychology. In the more than six years since then, Anju has continued to develop her skills as well as her academic capabilities. She is one of Guyana’s registered clinical psychologists and founded Inner Peace Psychotherapy and Counselling Services. She is also a certified EQ Practitioner, NLP Practitioner, and Mindfulness Trainer. Being recognised for her accomplishments, Anju received the 25 Influential Women Award in 2021, and her services received GCCI’s Microbusiness Award of the Year in 2023.
Coping to help others cope
In the same manner that doctors get sick, therapists are not infallible to mental stress or immune to the pressures of life. The topic of a psychologist’s mental health is often not talked about, but Anju says it is something that should be addressed. She shared that, “It really is an important thing in the sense that because I am a psychologist or a professional in the mental health field, it does not mean that I am in any way safeguarded from emotional challenges.” Anju went on to express a sentiment echoed by professionals in most healthcare fields. That is, caring for others requires strength. Across the world, every day, millions of men and women take up the mantle of caring for millions more, and according to Anju, there are moments when it gets a bit too much, even for a psychologist.
“In this profession, I am listening to people. I am, in a sense, taking in some of the emotions,” stated Anju. She went further to explain that the mental strain of her work is felt. Although subtle, Anju says that sometimes it does get to her. She said, “What others may be sharing, what others may be unburdening in my presence. It is something that can affect you in a way that is not so obvious.” Anju has made it her mission to practise what she preaches. She ensures that she pays attention to her mental well-being so that the problems of others do not creep up to become her own. She also expressed the importance of self-care. Like any other individual, Anju has moments in which she takes a step back. But it is not just good for herself and her patients; she says it is necessary for everyone. She stated that, “Down the line, as you go about your daily life you may notice that it is getting too much. The major thing is self-awareness. You need to have that level of self-awareness that you are conscious of how it is going for you.”
Anju’s integration into the melting pot that is Guyana
Anju was led to Guyana, almost by fate, six years ago. Her career in psychology was just taking flight, and her daughter was just three years old. Her husband had visited Guyana and told her about the country. With our welcoming people and melting pot of culture, the idea of starting a family in Guyana was captivating. The peaceful nature and concept of individuality have kept her in Guyana. Speaking about her experiences in Guyana thus far, Anju stated that, “I love this place. I am happy in this place. It has an individuality that I was looking for. This is the fifth country that I have moved to.” She shared that, coming from India, she never felt out of place in Guyana. The mix and collaboration of cultures in Guyana create a tradition of inclusion. An inclusion that made Anju feel at home. She said, “I did not feel totally out of place here. Because of the similar cultures that we have, the Indian culture is here. It did not feel totally out of place. It was not a big challenge for me.”
The Role of a Therapist
As much as Guyana’s pool of mental health workers has grown, there is certainly space for other newer additions. As the field grows, we must understand and appreciate the work done by professionals like Anju. As someone tasked with teaching people what self-care means, Anju firmly believes that everyone is equipped with the skills to care for their mental health. And the role of a therapist is simply guidance.
In her interview with Pepperpot Magazine, she shared that, “As I’m turning 40 in another two months, looking back on my choices to be in the mental health field, it’s more fulfilling and gives an overarching sense of purpose in life. I believe each and every one of us has innate abilities and resources within ourselves to deal with challenges in life, but sometimes we are so overwhelmed that it becomes difficult to access them. I believe my role as a therapist is to guide individuals to access their inner resources and strengths to manage their emotional challenges.”
