Health and Me

Supriya Ramesh

The Hidden Turmoil: Why Our Youth Are Quietly Crumbling and What We Can Do About It

Credits: Canva

In an age of endless scrolling, instant likes, and constant comparison, the mental health of young people is taking a nosedive and fast. The rise in <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health/depression">depression</a>, anxiety, self-harm, suicide, and behavioural disorders has exploded in recent years, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, the real tragedy is often hidden behind filtered selfies and people who aren't paying attention.

Quoting the World Health Organisation, Dr. Monica Sood shares that one in seven adolescents between the ages of 10 and 19 globally suffers from a mental health problem. Suicide is the fourth most common cause of death among teens. In India, the numbers are no less harrowing—“a student kills themselves every hour,” says the National Crime Records Bureau.

This is a generation supposedly poised to “have it all”, but as Dr. Sood says, they’re instead buckling under immense pressure, from academic demands and the need for social validation to competition with peers, family expectations, and uncertainty about the future.

While awareness is slowly improving, Dr. Sood laments that “conversations about youth mental health are still clouded by stigma, cultural denial, and a lack of resources.” Therapy remains a luxury, school counselling is scarce, and what should be called burnout has been normalised as digital fatigue.

Dr. Sood argues that to truly address the crisis, we need to dig deeper. “We need to realise that the crisis is more than just schoolwork or screen time.” Instead, it’s the result of a complicated mesh of factors:

<ul><li>Unrealistic expectations from society: The pressure to be perfect in every way is, in Dr. Sood’s words, “a psychological war zone.”</li><li>Dysfunctional families: Emotional unavailability, abuse, neglect, and overcontrol can deeply harm a child’s sense of self.</li><li>Lack of emotional vocabulary: Many young people don’t have the words to express what they’re feeling. Instead, their pain shows up as anger, withdrawal, or substance abuse.</li><li>Unfiltered digital exposure: Curated lives on social media fuel jealousy, insecurity, and body image issues.</li><li>Loss of spiritual and community ties: “The feeling of being part of something bigger is fading,” warns Dr. Sood.</li></ul>

But all is not lost. Dr. Sood lays out a refreshingly bold and unconventional action plan for what she calls a mental health renaissance—one that starts in schools and ends in society-wide reform.

Mindfulness and Emotional Literacy in the Curriculum

Dr. Sood urges schools to teach children how to manage their emotions just as they teach math. Weekly lessons in emotional intelligence, stress management, and nonviolent communication should begin from Class 1. “Add art therapy, journaling, breathing exercises, and storytelling,” she suggests, to make these lessons stick.

Dr. Sood calls for a peer-led model of support—“Every school, college, and university should choose and train a few older students or peers to be ‘Empathy Ambassadors’.” These students should be trained to listen, maintain confidentiality, and support others in crisis. Sometimes, peer support can be more approachable than formal therapy.

“We fast for our bodies; we should fast for our minds too,” Dr. Sood says. She recommends monthly ‘silent days’ in schools and families—no screens, no judgements, just fun, creativity, and nature.

Beyond home and school, young people need judgement-free zones to simply exist. “Think of libraries, community centres, and parks as ‘mental sanctuaries’,” says Dr. Sood. These could host music corners, open mic nights, and wellness cafés.

Dr. Sood’s final suggestion marries ancient Indian wisdom with modern science—“Use Ayurvedic mind-body typing, psychometric tests, and AI-based behavioural tracking to make personalised mental health plans.” She envisions a future where technology aids rather than overwhelms, offering tailored, holistic mental health solutions.

Health Conditions A-Z

health

youth crisis

mental health

depression

anxiety

suicide

emotional literacy

digital detox

peer support

school pressure

holistic healing

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In an age of endless scrolling, instant likes, and constant comparison, the mental health of young people is taking a nosedive and fast. The rise in depression, anxiety, self-harm, suicide, and behavioural disorders has exploded in recent years, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, the real tragedy is often hidden behind filtered selfies and people who aren't paying attention.Quoting the World Health Organisation, Dr. Monica Sood shares that one in seven adolescents between the ages of 10 and 19 globally suffers from a mental health problem. Suicide is the fourth most common cause of death among teens. In India, the numbers are no less harrowing—“a student kills themselves every hour,” says the National Crime Records Bureau.This is a generation supposedly poised to “have it all”, but as Dr. Sood says, they’re instead buckling under immense pressure, from academic demands and the need for social validation to competition with peers, family expectations, and uncertainty about the future.While awareness is slowly improving, Dr. Sood laments that “conversations about youth mental health are still clouded by stigma, cultural denial, and a lack of resources.” Therapy remains a luxury, school counselling is scarce, and what should be called burnout has been normalised as digital fatigue.The Root Causes Go Beyond ExamsDr. Sood argues that to truly address the crisis, we need to dig deeper. “We need to realise that the crisis is more than just schoolwork or screen time.” Instead, it’s the result of a complicated mesh of factors:Unrealistic expectations from society: The pressure to be perfect in every way is, in Dr. Sood’s words, “a psychological war zone.”Dysfunctional families: Emotional unavailability, abuse, neglect, and overcontrol can deeply harm a child’s sense of self.Lack of emotional vocabulary: Many young people don’t have the words to express what they’re feeling. Instead, their pain shows up as anger, withdrawal, or substance abuse.Unfiltered digital exposure: Curated lives on social media fuel jealousy, insecurity, and body image issues.Loss of spiritual and community ties: “The feeling of being part of something bigger is fading,” warns Dr. Sood.A Mental Health RenaissanceBut all is not lost. Dr. Sood lays out a refreshingly bold and unconventional action plan for what she calls a mental health renaissance—one that starts in schools and ends in society-wide reform.Mindfulness and Emotional Literacy in the CurriculumDr. Sood urges schools to teach children how to manage their emotions just as they teach math. Weekly lessons in emotional intelligence, stress management, and nonviolent communication should begin from Class 1. “Add art therapy, journaling, breathing exercises, and storytelling,” she suggests, to make these lessons stick.Empathy Ambassadors in Every InstitutionDr. Sood calls for a peer-led model of support—“Every school, college, and university should choose and train a few older students or peers to be ‘Empathy Ambassadors’.” These students should be trained to listen, maintain confidentiality, and support others in crisis. Sometimes, peer support can be more approachable than formal therapy.Digital Detox Sabbaticals“We fast for our bodies; we should fast for our minds too,” Dr. Sood says. She recommends monthly ‘silent days’ in schools and families—no screens, no judgements, just fun, creativity, and nature.Rebuilding Sacred Third SpacesBeyond home and school, young people need judgement-free zones to simply exist. “Think of libraries, community centres, and parks as ‘mental sanctuaries’,” says Dr. Sood. These could host music corners, open mic nights, and wellness cafés.Combining AI, Ayurveda, and PsychologyDr. Sood’s final suggestion marries ancient Indian wisdom with modern science—“Use Ayurvedic mind-body typing, psychometric tests, and AI-based behavioural tracking to make personalised mental health plans.” She envisions a future where technology aids rather than overwhelms, offering tailored, holistic mental health solutions.

the hidden turmoil: why our youth are quietly crumbling and what we can do about it

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We often associate stress with dramatic breakdowns, overwhelming work, or emotional turmoil. But what if the real danger lies in the tiny, everyday pressures we don’t even notice building up?

What Is Microstress and Why It Matters

“Stress is the most notorious yet underplayed disease,” says Alma Chopra, motivational speaker, disability rights activist and life coach. “It’s often thought of as an emotional onslaught that makes it difficult to function. But stress isn't just limited to our emotions; we can also become physically stressed from a chronic illness or an injury.”

Alma explains that microstresses are small, fleeting moments of stress that sneak into our daily routines. “Sometimes it creeps up through daily pressures until we hit our melting point. These are called microstresses,” she shares. These could include running late for a meeting or scrolling social media right after waking up. They may feel harmless in the moment but layer up to become chronic stress over time.

“These reactions feel minor and temporary, so they're quickly replaced by the next task or eased by a smiling face or a piece of cake,” says Alma. But the danger lies in how these minor stressors build up over time. “We tend to ignore these micro-stresses, but over time, they build low-level tension that will affect your sleep, focus, mood and health.”

Alma lists common microstressors and their effects:

<ul><li>Alarm: “Jerks the body into a sudden state of alertness, disrupting natural rest.”</li><li>Checking work email: “Doing this first thing in the morning puts us into a state of panic and anxiety.”</li><li>Scrolling social media: “Overstimulates the brain and drains mental focus.”</li><li>Confrontations: “Force us to deal with discomfort we’re not emotionally prepared for.”</li><li>Unfinished tasks: “Juggling a long list without breaks builds pressure and leads to burnout.”</li><li>Bruising your knee: “Even minor damage to the bone or soft tissue creates physical stress in the body.”</li></ul>

Alma advises recognising patterns and creating little routines to manage stress before it spirals. “Begin by recognising patterns, checking what drains you and creating little routines to relieve stress,” she says. “Start taking short breaks, creating boundaries and incorporating rejuvenating practices into your day.”

Sukirti Midha, spiritual wellness coach and founder of Sukh Yog, points out that microstress is a lifestyle issue. “Micro stress, as the name suggests, is small things we face as a working person or a householder. No gender age or designation we are discussing here; it’s the same for all,” she says.

According to Sukirti, “It’s in our lifestyle now; still, we are not aware of it.” She adds that people often don’t even feel it building up. “Do you think it happens overnight? No, nothing happens overnight except the sun comes out,” she jokes, adding a serious note that many people today don’t even see the sunrise, contributing to deficiencies like vitamin D.

Sukirti points out how society’s pressure to look good and maintain appearances feeds microstress. “When one gets conscious about looks, which include not only clothes but also touch-ups, make-up and hair. It’s not social pressure but created by us only.” She questions why people rely on external validation to feel good. “Why is it always important to look good to feel good?”

She also flags social media’s impact. “Many social media applications have filters to make you feel more beautiful and younger, which gives you plenty of stress when we look back in a basic mirror.” Comparing ourselves to others’ curated lives triggers a subtle but ongoing sense of inadequacy.

“Maintaining a status is a pressure these days,” she says. “Always remember as we shift from past to present or future to present, we learn happiness is about you &amp; not the things or society status.”

Both experts agree that while microstress can’t always be avoided, we can manage it better by slowing down, drawing boundaries and valuing simplicity. As Sukirti says, “Staying away from microstress isn’t easy, but preferring solace is an easy way out.”

microstress

daily stress

burnout

social media

emotional wellbeing

stress triggers

lifestyle pressure

boundaries

self care

We often associate stress with dramatic breakdowns, overwhelming work, or emotional turmoil. But what if the real danger lies in the tiny, everyday pressures we don’t even notice building up?What Is Microstress and Why It Matters“Stress is the most notorious yet underplayed disease,” says Alma Chopra, motivational speaker, disability rights activist and life coach. “It’s often thought of as an emotional onslaught that makes it difficult to function. But stress isn't just limited to our emotions; we can also become physically stressed from a chronic illness or an injury.”Alma explains that microstresses are small, fleeting moments of stress that sneak into our daily routines. “Sometimes it creeps up through daily pressures until we hit our melting point. These are called microstresses,” she shares. These could include running late for a meeting or scrolling social media right after waking up. They may feel harmless in the moment but layer up to become chronic stress over time.How Microstresses Mess With You“These reactions feel minor and temporary, so they're quickly replaced by the next task or eased by a smiling face or a piece of cake,” says Alma. But the danger lies in how these minor stressors build up over time. “We tend to ignore these micro-stresses, but over time, they build low-level tension that will affect your sleep, focus, mood and health.”Alma lists common microstressors and their effects:Alarm: “Jerks the body into a sudden state of alertness, disrupting natural rest.”Checking work email: “Doing this first thing in the morning puts us into a state of panic and anxiety.”Scrolling social media: “Overstimulates the brain and drains mental focus.”Confrontations: “Force us to deal with discomfort we’re not emotionally prepared for.”Unfinished tasks: “Juggling a long list without breaks builds pressure and leads to burnout.”Bruising your knee: “Even minor damage to the bone or soft tissue creates physical stress in the body.”Alma advises recognising patterns and creating little routines to manage stress before it spirals. “Begin by recognising patterns, checking what drains you and creating little routines to relieve stress,” she says. “Start taking short breaks, creating boundaries and incorporating rejuvenating practices into your day.”When Lifestyle Fuels MicrostressSukirti Midha, spiritual wellness coach and founder of Sukh Yog, points out that microstress is a lifestyle issue. “Micro stress, as the name suggests, is small things we face as a working person or a householder. No gender age or designation we are discussing here; it’s the same for all,” she says.According to Sukirti, “It’s in our lifestyle now; still, we are not aware of it.” She adds that people often don’t even feel it building up. “Do you think it happens overnight? No, nothing happens overnight except the sun comes out,” she jokes, adding a serious note that many people today don’t even see the sunrise, contributing to deficiencies like vitamin D.Sukirti points out how society’s pressure to look good and maintain appearances feeds microstress. “When one gets conscious about looks, which include not only clothes but also touch-ups, make-up and hair. It’s not social pressure but created by us only.” She questions why people rely on external validation to feel good. “Why is it always important to look good to feel good?”She also flags social media’s impact. “Many social media applications have filters to make you feel more beautiful and younger, which gives you plenty of stress when we look back in a basic mirror.” Comparing ourselves to others’ curated lives triggers a subtle but ongoing sense of inadequacy.“Maintaining a status is a pressure these days,” she says. “Always remember as we shift from past to present or future to present, we learn happiness is about you & not the things or society status.”The Simple Way OutBoth experts agree that while microstress can’t always be avoided, we can manage it better by slowing down, drawing boundaries and valuing simplicity. As Sukirti says, “Staying away from microstress isn’t easy, but preferring solace is an easy way out.”

microstress is real: these tiny terrors are quietly wrecking your mental health

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If you have ever colour-coded your wardrobe, wiped the kitchen slabs repeatedly just because a speck of dust exists, or straightened a slightly off-centre painting on the wall, someone has probably laughed and said, I am so OCD too. But the thing is that you are probably not. And neither are they.

Somewhere along the way, we all misunderstood Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), a serious mental health condition, and casually said it. OCD has become shorthand for being neat, organised, or a lover of clean aesthetics. But as mental health professionals and those who actually live with OCD will tell you, that stereotype could not be further from the truth.

OCD is a clinically diagnosed anxiety disorder. It is not just about being extra clean or a control freak. It involves a cycle of obsessions, which are intrusive, unwanted thoughts and compulsions, which are repetitive behaviours or mental acts done to try to neutralise those thoughts.

Imagine being haunted by a constant fear that your loved one will die unless you tap the light switch exactly five times. Or being plagued by the thought that you have hit someone with your car, even though there is no evidence of it happening, and then going back to the same stretch of road again and again to check. That is the lived reality of OCD. It is not cute, it is not fun, and it definitely does not feel satisfying or neat.

Yes, some people with OCD have cleanliness-related compulsions. But not everyone with OCD is a neat freak, and not all neat freaks have OCD. The need to wash your hands repeatedly until they are raw is not about loving cleanliness; it is about desperately trying to get rid of a feeling that something is terribly wrong. Often, the compulsion is not even rationally linked to the obsession. It is about trying to regain control over overwhelming anxiety, even if only temporarily.

In fact, OCD themes can be disturbingly varied, from fears of harming others to taboo thoughts to symmetry to morality. The common thing is that the thoughts are distressing, the anxiety is debilitating, and the rituals are exhausting.

Why It is Harmful To Mislabel Yourself As “OCD”

Calling yourself “OCD” because you like your stuff arranged by colour might seem harmless. But this kind of throwaway comment does a real disservice to people living with the actual condition. It trivialises their experiences and contributes to misinformation.

It also prevents those who might truly be struggling with OCD from recognising their symptoms and seeking help. Because if society keeps painting OCD as a personality problem, why would anyone think it is a serious problem?

Ask anyone with OCD, and they will tell you it is not fun. It is not satisfying to double-check the lock for the 17th time. It is not enjoyable to feel like you are going to vomit because of a thought you did not ask for and cannot get rid of. It is a relentless loop of “what ifs” and “just in cases” that can take over your entire life.

OCD can interfere with relationships, work, sleep, and basic daily functioning. It is often accompanied by shame and secrecy because people worry others would not understand, or worse, will think they are dangerous or irrational.

You might just be tidy. Or meticulous. Or even perfectionistic. And that is fine. But OCD? That is a diagnosis. A tough, often debilitating one that deserves respect. If you think you might actually have OCD, then help is available. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), particularly Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), has been proven to be effective. But it starts with understanding what OCD really is.

anxiety disorder

compulsions

obsessions

intrusive thoughts

stigma

mislabelling

If you have ever colour-coded your wardrobe, wiped the kitchen slabs repeatedly just because a speck of dust exists, or straightened a slightly off-centre painting on the wall, someone has probably laughed and said, I am so OCD too. But the thing is that you are probably not. And neither are they.Somewhere along the way, we all misunderstood Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), a serious mental health condition, and casually said it. OCD has become shorthand for being neat, organised, or a lover of clean aesthetics. But as mental health professionals and those who actually live with OCD will tell you, that stereotype could not be further from the truth.OCD is a clinically diagnosed anxiety disorder. It is not just about being extra clean or a control freak. It involves a cycle of obsessions, which are intrusive, unwanted thoughts and compulsions, which are repetitive behaviours or mental acts done to try to neutralise those thoughts.Imagine being haunted by a constant fear that your loved one will die unless you tap the light switch exactly five times. Or being plagued by the thought that you have hit someone with your car, even though there is no evidence of it happening, and then going back to the same stretch of road again and again to check. That is the lived reality of OCD. It is not cute, it is not fun, and it definitely does not feel satisfying or neat.The Cleanliness MythYes, some people with OCD have cleanliness-related compulsions. But not everyone with OCD is a neat freak, and not all neat freaks have OCD. The need to wash your hands repeatedly until they are raw is not about loving cleanliness; it is about desperately trying to get rid of a feeling that something is terribly wrong. Often, the compulsion is not even rationally linked to the obsession. It is about trying to regain control over overwhelming anxiety, even if only temporarily.In fact, OCD themes can be disturbingly varied, from fears of harming others to taboo thoughts to symmetry to morality. The common thing is that the thoughts are distressing, the anxiety is debilitating, and the rituals are exhausting.Why It is Harmful To Mislabel Yourself As “OCD”Calling yourself “OCD” because you like your stuff arranged by colour might seem harmless. But this kind of throwaway comment does a real disservice to people living with the actual condition. It trivialises their experiences and contributes to misinformation.It also prevents those who might truly be struggling with OCD from recognising their symptoms and seeking help. Because if society keeps painting OCD as a personality problem, why would anyone think it is a serious problem?What OCD Actually Feels LikeAsk anyone with OCD, and they will tell you it is not fun. It is not satisfying to double-check the lock for the 17th time. It is not enjoyable to feel like you are going to vomit because of a thought you did not ask for and cannot get rid of. It is a relentless loop of “what ifs” and “just in cases” that can take over your entire life.OCD can interfere with relationships, work, sleep, and basic daily functioning. It is often accompanied by shame and secrecy because people worry others would not understand, or worse, will think they are dangerous or irrational.Time To Rethink The LabelYou might just be tidy. Or meticulous. Or even perfectionistic. And that is fine. But OCD? That is a diagnosis. A tough, often debilitating one that deserves respect. If you think you might actually have OCD, then help is available. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), particularly Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), has been proven to be effective. But it starts with understanding what OCD really is. 

loving perfection and cleanliness does not mean you have ocd: here is what the disorder actually means

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In vitro fertilisation (IVF) is not just about science, syringes and success rates. What lies behind the walls of fertility clinics is a deeply personal journey filled with hope, heartbreak and resilience, making it more than just a medical procedure. Beyond the social taboos, infertility brings huge stress to the patients. And while IVF offers hope, it does not come easy. It is a rollercoaster ride that patients experience as they take on the road to this procedure; highs and lows can take a severe mental toll on them.

However, for those unversed, infertility has been classified by the World Health Organisation as a disease like diabetes or hypertension; the social taboo around it still persists. Over the years, advancements in reproductive science have made IVF treatments more patient-friendly and significantly improved outcomes. Yet, the focus often leans heavily on science, expertise and clinic proficiency, while the mental and emotional toll on the couple is overlooked.

For many, the psychological impact of IVF can match that of the death of a family member or going through a divorce. Although many people find IVF very stressful, every patient experiences it differently. Personalities and life experiences play a big role in determining how one handles the process and what part of IVF they find most difficult.

Why Is IVF So Emotionally Draining?

We ask an expert to break down several key factors that contribute to the immense stress IVF brings:

<ul><li>Uncertainty of Outcomes</li></ul>Despite impressive advancements in technology and improved success rates, IVF still does not come with guaranteed results. The lingering “what if” looms large over every cycle.

<ul><li>Physical Strain</li></ul>From the painful injections to hormone-induced mood swings and headaches, the physical toll is real. Frequent clinic visits often interfere with work and daily routines, compounding the exhaustion.

<ul><li>Societal Pressure</li></ul>Dr Shilpa Saple, Director at Surya Fertility Clinics, explains that societal expectations around having a child add to the emotional burden. Cultural pressures can be intense, especially when extended families and communities expect results quickly.

<ul><li>Guilt and Shame</li></ul>This is especially true in cases of male-factor infertility. “Many men may not disclose any sexual problems they have,” says Dr Saple, leading to feelings of inadequacy and emotional isolation.

<ul><li>Depression After Failed Attempts</li></ul>When a cycle does not result in a pregnancy, it can lead to overwhelming disappointment and depression. Each failed attempt chips away at the couple’s morale.

<ul><li>Relationship Strain</li></ul>The IVF journey can test even the strongest relationships. “Intimacy and communication can be affected,” says Dr Saple, as couples find themselves under immense emotional and logistical stress.

Learning to Cope with Support Systems That Help

There is light at the end of the tunnel, and as Dr Saple says, there are several strategies that can help couples better cope with the IVF process.

<ul><li>Psychological Counselling</li></ul>Talking to a trained counsellor can offer clarity, emotional relief and perspective during this emotionally taxing time.

<ul><li>Support Groups</li></ul>Dr Saple says sharing experiences can help. Listening to others' IVF journeys can offer comfort, reassurance and hope.

<ul><li>Mind–Body Practices</li></ul>“Yoga, meditation, deep breathing and mindfulness can help calm the mind,” advises Dr Saple. Regular physical activity also boosts endorphins, naturally elevating mood and reducing anxiety.

Setting Realistic Expectations

“IVF may take more than one cycle to succeed,” she explains. Being mentally prepared for the outcome, while knowing you have done your best, helps couples accept results with resilience.

It is Okay to Ask for Help

As Dr Saple reminds us, mental and emotional health are as important as physical health during IVF. Prioritising emotional wellbeing not only makes the journey more bearable but can also improve the overall outcome. “Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness,” she says.

World Health Organisation

diabetes

physical strain

societal pressure

relationship strain

psychological counselling

endorphins

mindfulness

In vitro fertilisation (IVF) is not just about science, syringes and success rates. What lies behind the walls of fertility clinics is a deeply personal journey filled with hope, heartbreak and resilience, making it more than just a medical procedure. Beyond the social taboos, infertility brings huge stress to the patients. And while IVF offers hope, it does not come easy. It is a rollercoaster ride that patients experience as they take on the road to this procedure; highs and lows can take a severe mental toll on them. However, for those unversed, infertility has been classified by the World Health Organisation as a disease like diabetes or hypertension; the social taboo around it still persists. Over the years, advancements in reproductive science have made IVF treatments more patient-friendly and significantly improved outcomes. Yet, the focus often leans heavily on science, expertise and clinic proficiency, while the mental and emotional toll on the couple is overlooked.For many, the psychological impact of IVF can match that of the death of a family member or going through a divorce. Although many people find IVF very stressful, every patient experiences it differently. Personalities and life experiences play a big role in determining how one handles the process and what part of IVF they find most difficult.Why Is IVF So Emotionally Draining? We ask an expert to break down several key factors that contribute to the immense stress IVF brings:Uncertainty of OutcomesDespite impressive advancements in technology and improved success rates, IVF still does not come with guaranteed results. The lingering “what if” looms large over every cycle.Physical StrainFrom the painful injections to hormone-induced mood swings and headaches, the physical toll is real. Frequent clinic visits often interfere with work and daily routines, compounding the exhaustion.Societal PressureDr Shilpa Saple, Director at Surya Fertility Clinics, explains that societal expectations around having a child add to the emotional burden. Cultural pressures can be intense, especially when extended families and communities expect results quickly.Guilt and ShameThis is especially true in cases of male-factor infertility. “Many men may not disclose any sexual problems they have,” says Dr Saple, leading to feelings of inadequacy and emotional isolation.Depression After Failed AttemptsWhen a cycle does not result in a pregnancy, it can lead to overwhelming disappointment and depression. Each failed attempt chips away at the couple’s morale.Relationship StrainThe IVF journey can test even the strongest relationships. “Intimacy and communication can be affected,” says Dr Saple, as couples find themselves under immense emotional and logistical stress.Learning to Cope with Support Systems That HelpThere is light at the end of the tunnel, and as Dr Saple says, there are several strategies that can help couples better cope with the IVF process.Psychological CounsellingTalking to a trained counsellor can offer clarity, emotional relief and perspective during this emotionally taxing time.Support GroupsDr Saple says sharing experiences can help. Listening to others' IVF journeys can offer comfort, reassurance and hope.Mind–Body Practices“Yoga, meditation, deep breathing and mindfulness can help calm the mind,” advises Dr Saple. Regular physical activity also boosts endorphins, naturally elevating mood and reducing anxiety.Setting Realistic Expectations“IVF may take more than one cycle to succeed,” she explains. Being mentally prepared for the outcome, while knowing you have done your best, helps couples accept results with resilience.It is Okay to Ask for HelpAs Dr Saple reminds us, mental and emotional health are as important as physical health during IVF. Prioritising emotional wellbeing not only makes the journey more bearable but can also improve the overall outcome. “Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness,” she says.

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