From Banker to Healer: Soumya's Journey in Mental Health and Addiction Treatment

Soumya, the head of therapy and operations at TTK Hospitals, shares her unconventional journey from banking to mental health and addiction treatment. Despite societal stigma, she found her calling in this field, driven by her passion for helping others. Her days are unpredictable, managing crises, assisting patients, and ensuring smooth operations at the rehabilitation center

The speaker initially planned to follow their father's footsteps in HR but discovered a passion for social work, particularly medical and psychiatric care. Their experience with community work during their MSW program exposed them to issues like domestic violence, alcoholism, and mental health concerns, fueling their desire to be a catalyst for positive change. Soumya faced resistance from her family when pursuing a career in addiction counseling, as it was seen as unsuitable for a woman

However, she persisted, driven by her strong desire to make a difference. She emphasizes the importance of not letting others dictate one's path, even if it means dealing with strife. The speakers discuss the growing issue of drug addiction among minors in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic

They highlight the importance of evidence-based rehabilitation programs, including detoxification, counseling, and holistic therapies like horticulture, music, and animal-assisted therapy, to support recovery.