Chandni Akhenia

  Adolescence is a time of change, confusion, and self-discovery. It’s when young people start to shape their identities, struggle with emotions, and search for a sense of belonging. Netflix’s Adolescence captures these experiences in a way that feels raw and real, shining a light on the silent battles many teenagers face. As a psychologist, I see this series as more than just entertainment—it’s a mirror reflecting the challenges of growing up in today’s digital world. The Double-Edged Sword of the Internet One of the most striking aspects of Adolescence is how it portrays the internet as both a place of connection and a source of harm. Online communities can be supportive, but they can also pull vulnerable teenagers into toxic spaces. The show highlights how certain online groups—like those promoting misogynistic or extremist views—target young boys who are searching for identity and validation. Teenagers are at an age where they are easily influenced, and the need to fit in can m...

Imagine having 37 tabs open in your mind, five of them crashing, and amidst all that, you’re still trying to remember if you defrosted the chicken. That’s the reality of the mental load—the invisible, exhausting weight of managing life’s endless to-do list. It’s not just about completing tasks; it’s the ongoing responsibility of planning, anticipating, and ensuring everything runs smoothly. The mental load is an often-overlooked burden that disproportionately falls on women. It’s the silent, behind-the-scenes effort of tracking schedules, managing household needs, and being the emotional backbone of a family. Women are frequently the ones remembering doctor’s appointments, planning meals, organizing school events, and ensuring social engagements run smoothly. Even when others are physically involved, the responsibility of coordination and oversight often remains on their shoulders. Beyond logistics, women also carry the weight of emotional labor—being the ones to check in on family m...

The dawn of a new year often brings promises of change, resolutions, and a renewed sense of purpose. While it’s tempting to focus on career goals, fitness regimens, or financial milestones, how often do we pause to prioritize our mental health? The start of a new year is an ideal time to reflect, reset, and realign—not just externally, but internally as well. After all, your mental well-being is the foundation upon which every other goal is built. Mental health often takes a backseat in the hustle of resolutions. Yet, it’s the anchor that steadies us through the highs and lows of life. The New Year offers a golden opportunity to break free from patterns of neglect and embrace practices that nourish the mind and soul. Instead of resolutions that exhaust or overwhelm you, why not set intentions that foster peace, balance, and self-care? One way to begin is by setting realistic and compassionate goals. Ditch the all-or-nothing mindset that so often accompanies New Year’s resolutions. In...

Have you ever caught yourself replaying a mistake in your head, analyzing every misstep with brutal precision? Or perhaps you've found it easier to offer kindness to others while reserving the harshest judgment for yourself. Self-criticism, though often masked as a motivator, can be a relentless force that erodes self-esteem, stifles growth, and clouds our perception of worth. At its root, self-criticism stems from a desire to do better, to achieve more, or to avoid failure. It whispers promises of improvement while simultaneously anchoring us in feelings of inadequacy. Instead of inspiring us, it often leaves us stuck in a cycle of guilt, shame, and self-doubt. The truth is, self-criticism is not the key to success or happiness—self-compassion is. Imagine speaking to yourself the way you would to a close friend. If a friend stumbled or made a mistake, you wouldn't belittle them or highlight their flaws. Instead, you'd offer understanding, encouragement, and reassurance. So...

In a world that glorifies being busy, saying "no" can feel like an act of rebellion. We're conditioned to say "yes" to every opportunity, favor, or invitation, believing that agreeing to everything is the mark of a kind, capable, and successful person. But while saying "yes" might open doors, it can also leave you overwhelmed, exhausted, and disconnected from your true priorities. The art of saying "no" is not about shutting out the world; it's about protecting your mental space so you can show up fully for what truly matters. Imagine your mental energy as a jar of marbles. Each commitment, whether big or small, costs a few marbles. If you keep giving them away without replenishing the jar, you’ll eventually run out—leaving you drained and unable to care for yourself or others. Saying "no" is like keeping some of those marbles for yourself, ensuring your energy and focus remain intact. It’s a radical form of self-care that allow...

In a world where productivity often takes precedence over well-being, mental health can sometimes feel like a luxury instead of a necessity. We live in a society that celebrates hustle culture—ticking off endless to-do lists, meeting impossible deadlines, and sacrificing sleep for success. But at what cost? Imagine a thriving garden that is never watered or nurtured. Over time, it wilts, no matter how beautiful it once was. Our mental health is much the same; it requires care, attention, and, above all, prioritization. Your mental health is the foundation for everything in your life: your work, relationships, creativity, and even your physical health. When your mind is calm and cared for, you are better equipped to navigate life's storms. But neglecting it can lead to burnout, anxiety, depression, and even physical illnesses. The mind and body are deeply interconnected, yet we often forget to tend to the mind while rushing to meet external expectations. Think of it this way: You w...