Psychology Matters: “It fills me with immense gratitude to have chosen this path”

Why do you think Psychology Matters? 

Psychology has the power to instil kindness in people. When we get to know ourselves and others and learn why we behave in certain ways under different circumstances, we become more aware, considerate, compassionate, and understanding. We can better relate to others and become less judgmental, normalise living with mental health conditions and make sense of complex behavioural responses. 

It has the power to better lives and make us realise that 'It's not just me, but many others like me' which builds a sense of connection. It has the power to make relationships stronger and deeper and empowers us to navigate challenges and achieve personal growth across various experiences and areas of life.  

Whether it's listening to someone who feels unheard, helping individuals navigate their mental health challenges, or conducting research that broadens our understanding of the human mind and behaviour, every moment feels impactful.  

Tell us about the impact of your own work in psychology 

I believe my work in psychology has brought meaningful value to people's lives. One of the most powerful aspects of my work is being able to connect with individuals, whether they have lived experiences of severe mental health conditions or simply need someone to listen to them. 

For example, I once met someone and after a brief conversation, she opened up and shared her life story with me. She told me that no one had ever taken the time to listen to her before, and when she said, "Thank you for stopping and listening to me, that's all I've been needing," it truly brightened my day. She burst into tears, and it was in that moment that I fully understood the profound impact that simply being present and empathetic can have on someone's life. 

Psychology is not just my profession; it's my passion, and I know this is where I belong. 

Moments like this remind me of the immense power that psychology holds. My personal values; empathy, patience, and the ability to genuinely connect, along with the skills that I have acquired over years of working in psychology, have enriched my journey in this field. Although I am still an early-career researcher, I am confident that I've made a difference in people's lives, even in small ways, and that motivates me to continue. 

It fills me with immense gratitude to have chosen this path. The opportunities to give back to the community and build relationships that resonate deeply make me feel fortunate every day. When I first embarked on a career in health and clinical psychology, I questioned whether I was built for it and even considered pursuing a different branch of psychology. But I am so grateful that I stayed with it, embracing both the highs and the lows. I can't imagine doing anything else. Psychology is not just my profession; it's my passion, and I know this is where I belong. 

What makes you proud about working in psychology? 

What makes me proud about working in psychology is the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in people's lives. Whether it's listening to someone who feels unheard, helping individuals navigate their mental health challenges, or conducting research that broadens our understanding of the human mind and behaviour, every moment feels impactful.  

The ability to foster connections, offer empathy, and promote mental wellbeing is deeply rewarding. I'm especially proud of how psychology enables me to contribute to a field that actively works to reduce stigma and improve people's quality of life. Each step I take, no matter how small, feels like a part of something bigger, an ongoing effort to create a more compassionate and understanding world. That sense of purpose and the positive impact I can have on others makes me immensely proud to be a part of this profession. 

Watch Oindrilla talk about her work

Get involved

Find out more about Psychology Matters 

Would you like to tell us why you think Psychology Matters? Complete our survey.