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I have committed to a head-shave on 21 August 2021 to spread awareness of negative stress, which sadly appears to be integral to our working lives and affects us deeply, sometimes more than we realise.

I started growing my hair long since mid 2018, towards the end of my PhD, perhaps as a way of reconciling with the stress from that period which was compounded by the load from administrative procedures besides the additional effort that I had to make for a change of research direction after the first year of my PhD. I had to be signed off from work towards the end of the programme because of the cumulative fatigue from dealing with this stress, which was manifesting itself physically in the form of allergies and skin rashes. Very recently, I experienced a work related stressful situation as a result of which I had to take a few days off work to recuperate from the stress. 

In both cases, I found that speaking to Samaritans, the University chaplaincy, GP, trained counsellors from the NHS or charities such as ACIS in Aberdeen helped deal with impact of the stress. Even a 'brew and blether' with a friend or colleague can go a long way in getting you back on track. Rest and exercise are also integral to the healing process. I find Yoga and walking very helpful for improving mindfulness too. Worship at Kings College chapel and St Machar's Cathedral were instrumental to the healing process before the pandemic as well.

Our mental health is precious, and it's really OK to speak out about it. In fact, the best way to spread awareness is when we openly share our own experiences. 

Whatever the recourse, I believe that people should not have to suffer in silence. 

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this and also for contribution. 

Yours

Vivek

PS: The hair from the shave will be sent to the Little Princess Trust (https://www.littleprincesses.org.uk) for their use in wig making.