Yuvashree – active learner and passionate about sports

Yuvashree – active learner and passionate about sports

Yuvashree, an eighth-grade student from Padappai, Chennai, who is the oldest of a family of four, was unable to express herself and froze whenever she was asked to stand in front of her class or perform on stage.

Sports enthusiast and active student Yuvashree ran into a brick wall as a result of her mounting fear. She ceased participating in games and competitions as a result. Her parents, who work as daily wagers, were devastated to see their bright spark wane because they had no idea what was wrong with her.

Yuvashree was enrolled in Green Beref Organization's Mental Health Counseling programme, Manoshakti, when mental health counsellor Arutjothi discovered she had high anxiety levels after testing the students.

Ever since Yuvashree began the mental health programme, things have improved. Ten concentrated counselling sessions were held with Yuvashree and her parents by a Green Beref Organization counsellor. Under the expert's direction, Yuvashree happily engaged in guided imagery breathing exercises and positive visualisation. Following the sessions, the counsellor routinely checked in on Yuvashree, her teachers, and her parents to ensure she was doing okay.

After receiving counselling, consistent follow-ups, and one-on-one sessions, Yuvashree regained her self-confidence and eagerly began competing in activities and competitions. She just took home a gold medal for Silambam at the Zonal (District) level competition. (The term "Silambambu" refers to a specific variety of bamboo from the Kurinjimala (Kurinji hills) in present-day Kerala. Silambam is an Indian martial technique that originated in South India. It stems from the Tamil word "Silam," meaning the hill.)

Making sure that every child has access to education and opportunities for holistic growth is what makes us happy (Green Beref Organization).