Kolkata: At a time when many young people are facing anxiety, isolation and loss of direction, a Catholic nun in India is offering a path of healing by combining psychology and faith.

Sister Kakali Majhi, a member of the Society of the Helpers of the Holy Souls in Purgatory, works as a psychologist at the University of Kolkata. Her mission is simple but urgent: to create a safe and compassionate space where young people can speak freely and begin to rebuild their lives.

She says that many students today feel overwhelmed by a mix of pressures, including political uncertainty, social expectations and the constant influence of digital life. Social media, in particular, has reshaped how young people see themselves, often tying their self worth to online approval and comparison.

Through her work, Sister Kakali listens to students facing depression, anxiety, broken relationships and fear about the future. She notes that many young people struggle with resilience, often seeing setbacks as personal failure rather than part of growth.

Her approach blends professional counselling with spiritual guidance. While psychological methods help address emotional struggles, her faith offers a deeper sense of hope. She describes her role as walking with young people through their darkest moments, helping them rediscover meaning and inner strength.

Creating a non judgmental environment is central to her work. She believes that simply having a place to speak openly can be a turning point for many. Over time, this process helps students reconnect with their abilities and rebuild confidence.

Sister Kakali also highlights how wider social issues contribute to the mental health crisis. Political divisions, economic challenges and the pressure to succeed have left many young people feeling lost and disconnected.

Despite these challenges, she remains hopeful. She sees small but meaningful changes in the lives of those she counsels and believes that even a single step towards healing matters.

For her, accompanying young people is not only a service but also a personal journey. She says it continues to teach her about resilience, compassion and the power of hope, which she describes as a bridge between despair and new possibilities.