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Throughout history, human society has experienced major transformative changes. From the age of hunting and gathering to the present era of the internet and advanced technology, the evolution of professions and careers has been a significant aspect of human life. Change is inevitable for progress, yet not all changes lead to positive outcomes. 

A new trend has emerged in the global workforce in recent years, with a growing number of individuals opting to change careers. This phenomenon has also been observed in Nepal, where many people are making transitions to new professions for various reasons. This raises the question: Is changing careers a beneficial or detrimental endeavor? In the context of our ever-evolving society, the concept of change is not new. However, what sets this current trend apart is the palpable shift from mere modernization within a specific occupation to an entire career change. This shift has prompted contemplation about the underlying reasons and motivations for such transitions. Are individuals unsatisfied with their current roles? Is financial gain the primary driving force behind these career changes? Or is there a deeper desire to diversify and excel in multiple areas? These questions have sparked curiosity and led to introspection on the part of many. 

Engaging with individuals who have recently transitioned to new careers reveals a common theme: the pursuit of multi-talent. The modern generation seeks to expand their knowledge and expertise beyond a single domain. The notion of being proficient in only one skill is perceived as limiting and unfulfilling. Instead, individuals aspire to be knowledgeable in various professions, desiring to seamlessly shift between different roles throughout the day. While the pursuit of diverse skills is not inherently negative, the frequency of career changes may pose potential challenges. It is imperative to ponder on the implications of this trend. Several factors have contributed to the rise of this trend. Job satisfaction, individual personality, the incongruence between one's job and innate nature, lack of incentives in current roles, the pervasive influence of social media, and the allure of instant fame have all played a role in shaping this phenomenon. The desire for recognition and popularity is not inherently problematic; however, the rapid attainment of fame can have significant psychological consequences. 

Early and abrupt fame and success bring with it a myriad of pressures and could potentially result in mental health challenges. The pursuit of multiple endeavors simultaneously may not be conducive to sustainable success and well-being. It is crucial to reflect upon these factors and their potential long-term impact. The contrast between pursuing expertise in a specific area versus engaging in multiple fields becomes evident when examining the lives of renowned figures in history. Consider Albert Einstein, a foundational figure in the realm of science. Had he diverted his attention to sociology, economics, and other fields, the world may not have benefitted from his pioneering contributions to theoretical physics. Similarly, Alfred Marshall’s acclaimed status as an economist would have been compromised had he dabbled in various domains of knowledge. These examples underscore the value of dedicating oneself to a particular field, achieving expertise, and garnering recognition over time. 

Individuals who invest substantial time and effort in a single profession are more likely to achieve prominence and financial stability. Becoming an expert in a specific area and gaining recognition within that field is a commendable pursuit, offering long-term rewards. The narrative of achieving success by juggling multiple pursuits simultaneously may not always lead to sustained prosperity and recognition. Focusing on a single discipline allows individuals to establish themselves as authorities in their respective domains, thereby enabling them to secure financial stability and professional recognition. 

In conclusion, the trend of changing careers reflects a desire for multi-talent and expertise across various domains. This shift has been influenced by factors such as job satisfaction, individual personality, the influence of social media, and the allure of instant fame. While the pursuit of diverse skills is commendable, it is essential to carefully consider the potential challenges and long-term impacts of frequent career changes. History has shown that dedicating oneself to a specific field and achieving expertise over time is a viable pathway to success and recognition. By carefully weighing the implications of these trends, individuals can make informed decisions about their careers and strive for sustainable and enduring success.

The author is counseling psychologist at PICS NEPAL

Nepal is renowned for its diverse geography, spanning from the majestic Himalayas to the lush hills and the expansive Tarai region. Despite these natural wonders, Nepal is plagued by geographical challenges every year, leading to numerous crises that result in significant human and material losses. Disasters, whether they are natural or man-made, have become a recurrent occurrence in Nepal. From flooding and landslides to road accidents and earthquakes, these crises cause physical destruction that have lasting effects on people’s mental well-being. 

The term ‘disaster’ has become all too familiar to Nepalis. The aftermath of such events often leads to immeasurable, tangible and intangible losses. While the physical toll is readily apparent, the long-term mental health implications are frequently overlooked. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a prevalent mental health challenge that many individuals in Nepal grapple with following a crisis. As a counseling psychologist, I have witnessed numerous clients struggling with the repercussions of traumatic events. What initially presents as stress and irritability ultimately reveals deep-rooted trauma from past disasters. The enduring impact of these crises on mental health cannot be overstated.

Long after the physical signs of destruction have faded, individuals continue to battle the emotional and psychological scars. Despite the passage of time, the pain, stress, and disturbance persist, searing deep into their minds. It is imperative to acknowledge that seeking professional help is not a sign of weakness but a courageous effort to reclaim one's mental well-being. Engaging with a psychologist or counselor can provide the necessary support to navigate through the lingering effects of trauma. Not everyone has similar coping patterns; few people can cope with anything, whereas many can’t handle even a small amount of stress in daily life. Everyone is unique, and individual differences make society. One may be good in one way, and another is in the next way. Never think that we should be filled with everything in life. It wouldn’t be a good life if we had everything. Let’s make a culture of asking for help.

Recent tragic events, such as the plane crash and the bus accidents in the Trisuli River, have left an indelible mark on the Nepalese community. As we mourn the loss of lives, we must also recognize the profound impact on the mental health of the affected families and communities. In such trying times, the strength of our collective cultural practices becomes evident as individuals come together to offer support and solace. Amidst the grief and turmoil, fostering an environment where individuals feel empowered to seek help without fear of judgment is essential. In addition to creating a supportive environment for seeking help, a proactive approach to mental health education and awareness is pivotal in addressing the long-term impact of crises on mental well-being. By fostering a culture of openness and understanding from an early age, we can sow the seeds of empathy and resilience in the fabric of our society.

In the meantime, I want to request the government of Nepal to make an integrated approach to helping people who are in grief and who face disaster, man-made or natural. The collective effort of making people affected by the crisis is only a way toward healing. Otherwise, you may help them by providing first aid to physical health, but there is yet to solve their mental health issues, which may affect them in the long term. To avoid people from the long-term effects of crises and disasters, the government should focus on mental well-being and implement counseling practices if support is needed. 

Encouraging conversations, seeking support from friends, family, and mental health professionals, and embracing the power of collective compassion are pivotal steps in the journey towards healing and resilience. Together, we can strive to create a society where mental health concerns are met with empathy, understanding, and accessible support services. Let's stand united in addressing the long-term impact of crises on mental health and fostering a culture of healing and hope in Nepal.

In the era of networks and technology, human beings are thriving in various ways. However, when it comes to mental health, particularly in Nepali society, everyone either wants to twist the topic or feels too shy to talk about it. And those who talk about it usually delve into the negatives. Why do people hesitate to talk about mental health? Why is stigma attached to the subject? I have been asking people about it for seven years. As a psychologist and founder of the mental health clinic PICS NEPAL, my job is to help people overcome their mental health issues. But the irony is even my own family is hesitant to openly discuss the topic of mental health. There might be various reasons, mainly a lack of education or awareness.

The word education is a process of enlightening people, from darkness to light, zero to everything. In other words, it empowers people with practical skills and knowledge. Imagine villages transformed by roads and airports built by engineers—a testament to the transformative power of education. Similarly, education can illuminate the darkness surrounding mental health. Yet, our current education system fails to prioritize this vital subject. Every family wants to make their child an engineer, a pilot, doctor, or a banker. However, nobody wants to make their child a counselor, psychologist, or psychotherapist. Although people are being educated and have all the facilities from the road to the airport, they still haven’t changed their mindset about mental health.

Changing the public’s mindset is also related to the nation’s education system. If everything has been achieved through education, then why not the perception of individuals? But the primary thing is it should be on the priority list of the government. If a government can change the mindset of voters towards a political party within five years, then why not about mental health? Nothing changes overnight, but if it is in a will list, nothing can stop it. The viewpoint towards mental health, a crazy state, being unconscious, psychosis, loss of control, furious, abnormality, and peculiar behaviors, even if it’s because of sinful activities by their parents or grandparents in some places or a god’s actions against your behavior in some areas, are common in the society. But mental health is quite different than the way people have been assuming. It is a state of well-being in which people can work regularly, help their communities and effectively overcome their daily life stressors. This is a bitter truth, but I found a similar understanding among all the so-called educated people regarding mental health issues. They see it as a state of madness, crazy, and psychosis that cannot be treated. Immediately, questions arise: Do they even have basic knowledge about mental health? What have they studied in their school/ college?

Is education far from the basics of health, or is it simply the ignorance of basic knowledge? A bunch of questions arise when I see the current scenario of our country. In my opinion, it’s not only people’s negligence but also the education system. Our basic education system has to cover health education at its primary level to make people conscious of their health, specifically their mental health. The school curriculum must be reformed. It needs to be practical, useful, and relevant.

Hundreds of thousands of youths are suffering from mental health disorders. According to the national report of government 2077, the burden of mental health among non-communicable diseases is almost one-fifth. People struggle each day to survive, around 20 per day, but can’t; the suicide rate has increased over the last couple of years.

Mental health matters a lot, but the government education system teaches something different in school. To become competent and robust enough to cope with everyday life stressors, one should be informed earlier. School curricula should teach today’s kids about their minds, thoughts, and behavior. Education doesn’t always mean teaching complicated equations and complex word meanings. It should also teach children ways to fight, cope, and overcome the everyday stressors, which could help them lead a happy and healthy life. '

Teaching in school about mental health will help an individual at a greater level and create awareness in the family. The child will talk about mental health and will do homework on mental health; they will be obliged to teach their families about mental health. It will minimize the stigma and prejudice regarding mental health, which will ultimately lead to easy access to mental health as physical health.

Sometimes, we talk about a big topic but miss the small one that has a more significant impact. Let’s initiate a talk about mental health at school, in the workplace, in coffee shops, in the film industry, and in business. Until and unless we talk about it openly in different places, I don’t think we can create awareness regarding mental health.

The role of the media is also crucial to create positive debate about mental health. Media has the power to shape public discourse. Instead of sensationalizing individual cases, it should focus on normalizing mental health conversations. Open discussions and expert opinions disseminated through various media channels can break down existing stigmas and encourage individuals to seek help.

So, let’s all spread positive messages to boost the self-esteem and confidence among those in need—and I believe everybody needs it. We all have a mind (psyche) that controls and regulates our thoughts and imaginations; we might be in trouble at any point, so we all need to take care of our mental health.

The author is counseling psychologist and founder of PICS NEPAL: A place for mental health and psychosocial well-being