Happiness is one thing that money cannot buy and with the global scenarios in the past two years, people are constantly struggling to find their spot of happiness. This has often led to people feeling depressed and burnt out about their work and life in general. It seems that more and more people are quitting their jobs because of lack of motivation and energy and sparse means to boost creativity. Some even turn to alcohol and other addictive drugs just because they don’t know how to rejuvenate themselves.
In 2020, India’s Happiness Report showed that Mizoram is the happiest state, followed by the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Punjab. This does make sense, considering the unique landscape of these states that are full of green cover and soothing weather. Surprisingly, Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh also made it to the top 10 happiest states in India. Nevertheless, there is still room for improvement.
Keeping in mind this vital concern in the society, Junagadh Collector’s Office, under the leadership of Rachit Raj, IAS, has launched a new initiative, the Human Library. This is a library but there are no books here. Here, people can come and connect with each other, talk about their problems, share their experiences, learn from the struggles of others and hopefully be able to relieve some of their stress.
One of the key factors that worsens people’s stress and depressive state is not having anyone to talk to. The people who are suffering know they need to open up to someone but often find themselves without a reliable confidant. Many time worries are such that a person may not like to share with family members. This is where such libraries can make a difference, especially since its a known fact that it is easier to open up completely with strangers. And if friendships form, all the more better!
The collector’s office said that this library will enhance empathy and emotional intelligence and that such people to people meets and conversations are needed.The set up of the library has been open with very calm, serene and composed environment. This library will be open from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm and as of now limited to government employees. However, after gauging the success of this initiative, the library might open to general public.
This Human Library is aimed at improving the mental health of the people who are tired and struggling to be content in their hectic life. Anger and frustration are wide-spread in todays life, and having someone to talk to might just be the thing one needs. Hopefully this initiative gains tremendous popularity and can be availed by the general public soon as well.
