Volunteering in India

A project by: Charlotte Watson

Successful

WE RAISED £730

from 11 donors

This project received pledges on Tue 16 May 2017
Mental health placement at NIMHANS and The Ancient School of Wisdom.

SUMMARY OF MY PROJECT

I am hoping to take an amazing, once in the lifetime trip to India.  I am looking to raise £600 towards my flight to a volunteering project in India. I will be travelling to Bangalore this summer to volunteer at the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences were I would attend seminars from clinical psychologists and mental health specialists as well as helping and observing patients.  I will then travel to the Ancient School of Wisdom to learn about different practices towards the treatment of mental health that will give me a unique insight into both ancient and holistic treatments.

This fantastic opportunity with help me gain an increased knowledge of global mental health, learn how current medical advances work side by side with Eastern methodology and also contribute to my dream of becoming a clinical psychologist and help me put something back into the community once I have completed my studies.

WHO AM I?

My name is Charlotte and I am currently in my second year studying Psychology at the University of York. I am very passionate about mental health and my current course has inspired me to pursue a career in this speciality. I am motivated and driven to succeed with my studies and to make a real contribution to society.

MY STORY

This trip is a rare and unbelievable opportunity to study mental health.  The mental health crisis is a global problem. For example, according to the NMHS of India 2015-16, 1 in 20 people suffer from Depression and in the UK 1 in 6 adults are reported by the NHS APMS 2014 to have a Common Mental Disorder. This critical issue is one of the biggest obstacles facing the current and future generations; I would appreciate the opportunity and relish the challenge to play even a small role in helping to promote a positive mentality and to battle the stigma against mental health issues. The chance to attend this educational programme and gain astute knowledge about Eastern techniques towards mental wellbeing and mindfulness, would be a once in a lifetime opportunity for me. An opportunity that would benefit me once I have graduated but that would also hopefully benefit others once I am working in the field.

WHERE WILL THE MONEY GO?

With your help, I am hoping to raise £600 towards the cost of my flight to Bangalore.  The overall cost of the trip will be around £1200. My accommodation costs will be £500, this includes bed and breakfast for 7 days, and all travel costs within the city. The flights for this trip range from £550-£600 and an international visa costs £100.

Please consider making a donation today and share this project on Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin or anywhere you can think of.  Share with everyone you know, as I really do need your support so that I can achieve my dream to go on this once in a lifetime trip. I want to thank you in advance for taking the time to read my page and anyone who donates will get a little reward! I really appreciate all the support you’ve provided, thank you in advance.

COMPLETION DATE: MAY 16th 2017