Learn to let go of things, including emotions and situations.
Learn to let go of things, including emotions and situations.
Dr. Priyanka Yadav, a Consultant Psychiatrist and Therapist in Noida with 12-13 years of experience, finds great satisfaction in her work.
Dr. Priyanka was born in Bhuj but raised in Delhi. She completed her education at DAV Public School and pursued her MBBS and MD in Gujarat.
Coming from a middle-class family, she cherishes her simple and joyful childhood memories, emphasizing the importance of education supported by her broad-minded parents who came out of their village to have a better future for their children. Her early academic success led her to Psychiatry, driven by a desire to address the emotional and social aspects often overlooked in medical training.
Sharing about her struggles, Dr. Priyanka recounts how she had to adapt to living on her own when she started medical studies. During her hostel days, she learned that making mistakes is an essential part of the learning process. The most challenging aspect was dealing with setbacks and learning to manage stress, especially during the demanding and stressful residency period.
Dr. Priyanka emphasizes the importance of learning how to cope with the stress of being a resident doctor, especially with the challenges of having less sleep. She notes that developing resilience is crucial.
After completing her post-graduation in psychiatry, Dr. Priyanka joined the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in Delhi. Following her marriage and the birth of her child, she faced the common challenge of balancing work and motherhood. Despite being a psychiatrist, this phase was particularly difficult for her. She gradually found a new balance by choosing the right practices, focusing on self-care, and seeking support from friends and the community. This approach helped her grow in the right direction.
Dr. Priyanka also started engaging on social media, talking about psychiatry and conducting regular awareness activities for women. Parenting was one of the significant challenges she faced, and she now helps guide others going through similar experiences.
Currently in her mid-thirties, she is exploring different perspectives on life's challenges, such as finding purpose and areas for further growth. She acknowledges that although everyone faces similar challenges, each person's journey and way of finding purpose are unique.
Dr. Priyanka shares that she has been quite successful in her career. Academically, she was a topper, which enabled her to gain valuable life skills. She graduated as a gold medalist, worked at AIIMS in New Delhi, and now has a successful practice in Noida. She practices a holistic approach to psychiatry, treating patients with both therapy and medication. The response rate from her clients has been very positive, and she is satisfied with her work. She finds fulfillment in giving back to society by raising awareness about mental health and helping people, sometimes free of cost, by addressing mental health issues. Dr. Priyanka is dedicated to her mission of improving mental health awareness and care, striving to make a positive impact on her community.
According to her, mental health is a field about which there is a lack of awareness, with many people unsure of where or how to start seeking help. She is committed to giving back to society, believing that one should begin such efforts when they feel settled in their own life. Dr. Priyanka feels privileged in many ways and cherishes her growth in various roles—as a mother, a person, and a professional.
She continuously reads and attends seminars related to psychology, which keeps her motivated and inspired. She respects her age and enjoys pursuing her passion for dancing and learning. Leading a balanced life, she feels fulfilled and believes she is a better person than she was last year.
When it comes to role models, Dr. Priyanka emphasizes that she has been motivated by various people throughout her life. Like many children, she was inspired by her parents, who taught her resilience and perseverance, and never to give up or bow down. Her parents remain her primary inspiration, influencing her values and outlook on life. She also draws inspiration from her mentors, including a PT teacher of her school, who helped her develop a growth mindset. She believes that every new client teaches something valuable, emphasizing that practical application of knowledge is crucial. From her mentors, she learned to balance life, enjoy it, and stay relaxed. At AIIMS, she gained important skills in clinical practice, research, and evaluating facts.
Currently, Dr. Priyanka is inspired by her daughter to be a better person and to live a mindful life every day. She feels fortunate and finds great satisfaction in reading books, which offer insights into various struggles and successes. Books keep her inspired and motivated.
Dr. Yadav shares that attaining mental peace involves letting things go, as life has many ups and downs. Welcoming all aspects of life and being open to experiences is the easiest way to find peace. Leading a balanced life that satisfies all areas of growth is also essential. She talks about acceptance commitment theory, which emphasizes accepting life as it is, rather than how it should be. This approach helps one live a fulfilling life.
Dr. Priyanka also emphasizes the importance of physical activity for mental health. She engages in cycling, running, and dancing. She encourages people to seek help from psychiatrists without stigma, as they use scientific methods to address issues. In her view, mental peace is best achieved by letting go of desires, accepting life's realities, and taking proactive steps towards a balanced and fulfilling life.
She also refers to a famous study that highlights the importance of the quality of happiness in one's life. She believes that as people evolve, the stress on relationships increases, which can negatively impact happiness. According to her, relationships depend entirely on happiness, which in turn requires a balance of spiritual health, career goals, and avoiding stagnation.
Her life mantra is to let things go, including emotions and situations. Additionally, her second mantra for handling crisis situations is to stop, drop, and breathe. She believes that these two mantras are essential for accepting things in life as they come, helping one to navigate challenges with greater ease and peace.