Sister Christine Mynsong says counseling services that restore mental health is as important as medical care in order to build a healthy society.

The nun, who belongs to Missionary Sisters of Mary Help of Christians, has been working in the ministry of counseling for the past three years. She says that psychological help is needed for people as today’s life is full of tension and anxiety.

“In the sense of ministry, I find it fulfilling and meaningful. I see people gaining help out of this ministry, she said.”

Mostly married women and students approach the nun for help. While married women come to her with relationship issues, students seek help regarding pressure in their study.

Besides individual counseling, the nun also organizes weekend programs for working people who want to get trained in counseling skills.

With a team of one doctor (psychiatrist) and two counselors, the sister conducts four basic counseling courses and three advanced courses every year.

She also organizes outreach programs in schools and gives counseling training for teachers and career guidance to students.

She said that she took up this ministry because “while in administration, I found many of our young sisters with many issues which they could not talk with anybody. It blocked their growth, and creativity. Sometimes it also led to depression.”

“Counseling the common man is more effective. They are honest, sincere and receptive,” she said, adding “I find joy when I see people being able to mange themselves, work towards their own growth and able to take decisions in life.”

Report by Lissy Maruthanakuzhy

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