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Aahara sat on the edge of her bed, staring at her hands. They were trembling again. She felt like her chest was caving in, and her thoughts were racing so fast that she couldn’t grasp a single one. A knot twisted in her stomach, making her feel nauseated. The air in the room felt heavier than usual, as though it were conspiring against her to make breathing just that little bit harder.

Her phone buzzed on the nightstand, the name ‘Nikita’ lighting up the screen. It was her best friend, calling to confirm their lunch plans. Aahara had already texted Nikita twice that morning, first saying she’d be a little late, then coming up with a vague excuse about a “last-minute work deadline.” Now Nikita wanted to call and make sure everything was okay.

But Aahara couldn’t answer the phone. Even the thought of talking to Nikita felt overwhelming. She had no idea how to explain all the different thoughts and worries that were going through her head. Her mind spun through its daily cycle of worries. “Did I forget to send that email? What if my boss thinks I’m incompetent?” “I should check on my parents. What if something happens to them, and I didn’t call in time?” “I don’t feel right. What if I have some undiagnosed illness and the doctors just missed it?” No amount of reassurance ever silenced these thoughts. 

Aahara tried to reason with herself to no avail. She had been living like this ever since her mother took ill a few months ago. Aahara’s worries continued even after her mother came back to health. 

She wasn’t just nervous; she wasn’t just overthinking. She had Generalized Anxiety Disorder, a type of anxiety disorder which made even the most ordinary parts of life feel overwhelming.

Aahara and her story is fictional, but this could happen to anyone. Based on a study conducted by Risal et al. (2016) among 2100 people all across Nepal, the prevalence of anxiety is 22.7 percent. That’s 70,14,300 people affected with anxiety.

Anxiety is more than just feeling nervous before a presentation or jittery before an important event. It’s a complex mental health condition that can make ordinary tasks feel insurmountable.

At its core, anxiety is a natural response to stress. It’s your brain’s way of keeping you alert to potential danger. Imagine you’re walking through the woods and hear a rustle in the bushes. Your body floods with adrenaline, preparing you to fight, flee, or freeze. This is your body’s fight-or-flight response, and it’s a helpful survival mechanism when there’s an actual threat.

The key difference between fear and anxiety lies in their triggers. Fear is a response to an immediate, real danger—like encountering a wild animal in the woods. It’s a short-lived reaction that helps you take action in the face of a specific threat. Anxiety, on the other hand, is often future-focused, triggered by perceived threats that may never materialize. It lingers, creating a sense of unease and worry, even when no immediate danger is present. While fear fades once the threat is gone, anxiety can persist, making everyday situations feel just as alarming as life-threatening ones.

The problem arises when this response gets stuck in overdrive. For someone with an anxiety disorder, their brain sounds the alarm even when there’s no immediate danger. A casual conversation, a grocery trip, or even sitting in silence can trigger the same physiological reactions as facing a life-threatening situation.

Such physiological reactions can be:

• Fastened heart rate
• Shortness of breath
• Tightness in the chest
• Nausea or stomach pain
• Muscle tension  
• Sweating or trembling  

These sensations can be terrifying, leading to thoughts like, “Am I having a heart attack? Am I dying?” Many people with anxiety also experience insomnia, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating, making even the simplest tasks feel overwhelming. It is also important to emphasize that anxiety is an umbrella term for many different types. Some types of anxiety are: 

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder
• Panic Disorder 
• Social Anxiety Disorder 
• Specific Phobia 
• Agoraphobia 
• Separation Anxiety Disorder 
• Selective Mutism 

Aahara’s story sheds light on the often hidden yet pervasive struggles that anxiety brings. It serves as a reminder that anxiety isn’t just a fleeting feeling of nervousness, it’s a mental and physical burden that can take over someone’s entire existence. But it’s important to remember that while anxiety may feel like an inescapable maze, there are ways to navigate through it. 

Seeking support is the first step. Whether through therapy, conversations with loved ones, mindfulness practices, or medical treatment, there are tools to help individuals regain control over their lives. Aahara’s journey is far from over, but by acknowledging her anxiety and taking small steps toward healing, she’s moving toward a life defined by courage rather than fear.

‘I’m not the creative sort’—we have either said this about ourselves or heard someone close to us say it about themselves. It’s the biggest lie ever. Everyone has creative potential. They just need to tap into it. Here’s how you can do it. 

Journal your thoughts and ideas

Writing things down can be a great way to get rid of mental clutter. In recent years, morning pages is something that has been gaining a lot of popularity. The idea is to write down three pages of whatever comes to your mind the moment you wake up. You keep a diary and pen next to your bed and write down your thoughts before you get out of bed. You can also practice it after doing your morning routine. This is a great exercise to get your thoughts and ideas flowing. Alternatively, get into the habit of keeping a pen and notebook with you at all times and write down the random thoughts and ideas that come to your mind as you go about your day. You will find that this simple exercise will train your brain to think more creatively. 

Pick up a paintbrush

We tend to feel intimidated by the thought of painting something. We think we can’t make something nice or replicate a drawing we like. But it doesn’t have to be so complicated. And seasoned artists vouch that painting and drawing aren’t all that difficult if you just give it a try. It’s definitely a skill that can be honed. Get some canvas, some paints, and a few brushes and just have a go at it. You will find it to be quite enjoyable. You can make cards for your loved ones as well. Painting has many benefits and some of them include enhanced creativity and stress relief. It’s a family activity as well. Spread some newspaper on the floor, plop your paints and canvases on it and get painting. 

Take some pictures

We all have smartphones and we all take pictures of everything, from mirror selfies to the food we order at restaurants. But have you ever tried your hand at taking aesthetic photos of the many different things that are around you? Try capturing a lovely sunrise, or take some photos of flowers up close. Photography is an activity that forces you to think creatively. You start observing your surroundings differently and paying attention to the details. It’s also a lifelong learning process. No matter how long you have been taking photos, you can always take better ones. You can learn new techniques, skills, and styles. Learn to shoot in the macro form that allows you to take interesting photos of miniature subjects like ants, bees, and the like. Street photography is another fascinating thing to try. You could also try your hand at styling objects and taking aesthetic photos of them. 

Learn new things

You are never too old to learn a new skill. Learning new things will sharpen your mind and keep you on your toes. Studies have also shown that constant learning can slow down aging and keep you mentally agile. Sign up for an online course. It could be learning a new language, coding, or graphic design. The options are endless. If you prefer, you can even sign up for physical classes. Dance, vocals, or swim lessons can be good options. There are so many workshops and training being held these days that you can just pick something that suits your mood. These aren’t even long sessions so you don’t have to commit much time. Duolingo is a great app for learning new languages. In 10 to 15 minutes a day you can pick up new words and phrases and be quite a pro at any language of your choice in a year or two, if you are consistent with practice. 

Break up your routine

Most of us are creatures of habit and we tend to follow the same routine day in and day out. Without realizing, this makes our days a little mundane and dulls our mind in the long run. While everyone loves rituals and a sense of structure to their days, it’s essential to switch things up every now and then so that we don’t get bored. This allows your mind to think freely and not be constrained by a particular way of thinking. Try taking a different route to work, order takeout from a restaurant that you normally don’t go to, thrift items you need instead of heading to the market to pick something off the shelf or see if you can repurpose something around the house to serve your needs. Breaking up your routine not only allows for more flexibility but it also forces you to think before you do anything.

For centuries, marijuana has been part of Nepal’s cultural landscape. However, the 1976 ban on its production and consumption has deprived the country of a significant opportunity—not only in tourism and the economy but, more importantly, in accessing its medical benefits. In earlier times, sadhus and yogis used marijuana for religious and medicinal purposes. Nepal was once renowned for its legendary Himalayan cannabis, and Kathmandu’s streets were a haven for tourists and hippies from around the world.

Legalizing cannabis is complex, particularly due to the stigma and misunderstanding surrounding its use. Research shows that its medical benefits emerge not from smoking but from refined and processed forms. Despite growing evidence, it remains illegal and widely misunderstood. Medicinal cannabis can aid in pain relief, reduce inflammation, manage anxiety and depression, treat epilepsy and seizures, improve sleep, and help with neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

As scientific studies increasingly confirm marijuana’s therapeutic value, Nepal should reconsider its stance—not to encourage unregulated use, but to harness its vast medical and economic potential.

Globally, perceptions of marijuana are shifting. Over 40 countries, including Germany, Thailand, and several US states, have decriminalized or legalized cannabis for medical use. From chronic pain to neurological disorders, its therapeutic applications are driving reform. Studies highlight cannabis’s effectiveness in easing symptoms of multiple sclerosis and controlling seizures in epilepsy.

A major breakthrough came when research confirmed the medical potential of cannabinoids, particularly CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). These compounds have proven effective in managing chronic pain, anxiety, and epilepsy. CBD, which lacks the psychoactive effects of THC, has shown promise in treating conditions like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.

Nepal’s unique geography and climate make it ideal for cultivating high-quality cannabis. Reintroducing marijuana into the formal economy—strictly for medical use—could offer a valuable economic edge. Legal cultivation could empower farmers, generate export revenue, and create jobs. Despite calls for legalization, the government has yet to take concrete steps, largely due to the outdated 1976 Narcotic Drugs (Control) Act, which still classifies cannabis as illegal. This legislation remains a significant barrier to reform.

Ironically, during Shivaratri—a major Hindu festival—marijuana use is normalized, highlighting a contradiction where illegality exists only on paper. So how can we normalize it in law?

In regions like Rolpa, Rukum, and remote parts of Karnali Province, wild cannabis already grows in abundance. With proper cultivation practices, Nepal could supply high-grade medical marijuana for domestic and global markets. The global legal cannabis market was valued at $21bn in 2023 and is projected to grow by 25.7 percent annually through 2030. For a developing country like Nepal, in search of sustainable revenue sources amid economic uncertainty, marijuana may very well be the “green gold” waiting to be refined.

The benefits of medical marijuana span multiple sectors—from farmers, vendors, and logistics providers to healthcare systems, patients, and the government. Legalization could empower local communities and drive job creation. A regulated cannabis economy could open new revenue streams through taxation, exports, and pharmaceutical partnerships, significantly contributing to GDP growth.

Beyond boosting state revenues, legalization could generate employment across the entire supply chain—from cultivation and processing to research, transportation, and retail. Medical cannabis also offers the public a sense of reassurance. As disillusionment grows with the side effects of chemical-based medications, many are turning toward plant-based, herbal alternatives.

Medical cannabis provides natural and, in many cases, more effective treatment for a range of physical and mental health conditions. This shift not only supports public health and economic gains but also fosters innovation in Nepal’s herbal and pharmaceutical industries.

A proposed bill remains stalled, largely due to the outdated 1976 Act and fears of international backlash. Nonetheless, within Nepal, researchers, experts, and policymakers increasingly advocate for legalization. In fact, whichever political party champions and executes the bill may gain a competitive political advantage. Public support—especially among the youth—is growing rapidly. However, misconceptions persist. Many still confuse the medical benefits of cannabis with recreational smoking, which is misleading. Medical cannabis involves administering refined compounds like CBD and THC in precise, controlled doses—not raw or smoked forms.

The world would be simpler if we were all alike. Yet we live in homes, societies, and a world enriched by diversity—defined by vibrant hues of brightness and strokes of darkness. Many are considered neurotypical, but what about those beyond the typical spectrum? I often find myself deeply empathizing with neurodiverse individuals. Through my work with them, I’ve come to believe the true wonders of life lie in our varied abilities—to see, hear, smell, touch, taste, appreciate movement and balance, and understand the world with unique clarity.

Many neurodiverse individuals are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by challenges in communication, social interaction, and repetitive behaviors. ASD manifests differently across the spectrum, and its greatest challenge often lies in mutual understanding. This is why we must pause... think... understand... and connect—especially with those who need help but may not know how to ask for it. Research shows early intervention and proper support can significantly improve outcomes, but it’s never too late to begin.

Diagnosis and acceptance are crucial. ASD is a lifelong journey, one where burnout is common. Progress is most visible in individuals whose families stand together, persevering with quiet courage. True courage isn’t always a lion’s roar; sometimes, it’s the patient, persistent work of ants. Sadly, the world can be harsh, and hypocrisy runs deep—many claim to support ASD yet fail to deliver meaningful results. While numerous centers offer therapies, their effectiveness varies widely, and costs often place them out of reach for families. Affording therapy shouldn’t depend on luck. Closed-door sessions should be discouraged; I strongly advocate for inclusive therapies where parents are active participants. One-hour sessions alone are never enough.

Effective ASD management requires a multidisciplinary approach. Evidence confirms that early intervention—ideally before age three—yields the best outcomes. Therapies like occupational therapy, behavioral interventions, special education, and developmental programs are used worldwide. Regardless of the approach, the core goal remains the same: to connect with the child. We must build trust, respect their fears, and start where they are—not where we want them to be. With time, the right environment, and guidance, we can help them grow toward independence in daily life. The world is limitless, and so are their possibilities—we must help them believe that. Structured routines (which provide reminders) often work better than rigid rules (which impose consequences), reducing behavioral challenges as the child learns how to navigate their world.

Awareness must start at the grassroots level. Parents, families, and communities need education about ASD’s signs, diagnosis, and management. We must advocate for equal opportunities in education, employment, and public spaces to foster true inclusion. Inclusion isn’t just tolerance—it’s about reshaping social norms to welcome neurodiversity. It requires systemic changes in teaching methods, attitudes, and policies. It’s ironic that neurodiverse individuals are often told how to behave, while neurotypical people rarely learn how to support them. Parents and educators must teach compassion and acceptance. Students who understand diversity need less guidance; it’s those with special needs who deserve our patience and time. Being nonverbal doesn’t mean having nothing to say—it means we must listen more deeply.

ASD isn’t a disability; it’s a different ability. We must focus on strengths, not limitations. Judging a fish by its ability to climb a tree helps no one. In a world of constant demands, staying composed is hard—yet families who persist through challenges become beacons of resilience. Their determination reflects the power of the human spirit. While some parents face obstacles head-on, others struggle under social stigma, self-doubt, or fear of the future. We must support ASD children with clarity, acknowledge their struggles, and celebrate their efforts. Let the world resonate with hope. As we navigate this journey, remember: our strength lies in understanding, collaboration, and growth.