From Classroom to Consultation Room: The Inspiring Journey of Dr. Sri Divya Reddy Kandhi
Once a curious student sitting in our classrooms, Dr. Sri Divya Reddy Kandhi has grown into an inspiring psychiatrist dedicated to spreading mental health awareness. Her story is a testament to how passion, persistence, and empathy can shape a meaningful career. From rural communities to social media platforms, Dr. Kandhi is making a difference one conversation at a time.
A Dream Takes Root in Xiamen
Dr. Kandhi's journey began with a dream of becoming a doctor. Dr. Kandhi’s journey began with a dream of becoming a doctor. She set off on an adventurous academic path that took her far from home to Xiamen University in China, where she completed her MBBS (2006-2012). Living and learning in a new country gave her a deep appreciation for cultural diversity, preparing her for the challenges of working with people from all walks of life.
After her time in China, her passion for understanding the complexities of the human mind drew her toward psychiatry. She pursued a Doctor of Medicine (MD) in Psychiatry at Mamata Medical College, Telangana, India (2017-2020), where her journey into the intricate world of mental health truly began.
Learning Through Experience
Dr. Kandhi’s career has taken her across different roles and settings, each offering invaluable experience. Early in her career, she worked as a Civil Assistant Surgeon (CAS) at the Primary Health Centre in Jeelugumilli, Andhra Pradesh, where she not only provided healthcare to rural communities but also became involved in awareness programs in villages and government schools.
From conducting Pulse Polio campaigns to offering free medical camps in underserved areas, Dr. Kandhi discovered the importance of connecting with people beyond just medical treatment. This early exposure to community outreach shaped her approach to psychiatry—one that combines science with empathy.
Her growing expertise saw her take on roles as a Medical Officer and, later, a Senior Resident in psychiatry at Mamata Medical College. Today, she serves as an Assistant Professor and Consultant Psychiatrist at Sita Hospital, where she continues to mentor students and treat patients.
Turning Research into Solutions
During her academic journey, Dr. Kandhi explored topics close to her heart, publishing research that addressed real-world mental health issues. Her work includes:
“Mobile phone usage and its association with stress, anxiety, and depression among adolescents.”
“Anxiety, depression, and quality of life in the postnatal period.”
“Impact of alcohol dependence syndrome on male sexual dysfunction.”
Her research and presentations on Huntington’s disease, postpartum depression, and sexual dysfunction in medical students reflect her commitment to finding solutions to complex mental health challenges.
Advocating for Mental Health – On Air and Online
Dr. Kandhi's love for psychiatry goes beyond her professional roles. Recognizing the power of communication, she has appeared on local news channels to talk about conditions like depression, suicide, schizophrenia, autism, and ADHD. Her goal? To break the stigma surrounding mental illness and encourage open conversations in the community.
With the rise of social media, Dr. Kandhi found another platform to make a difference. Through her Instagram videos, she educates people on managing stress, recognizing signs of depression, and maintaining mental well-being. Her online presence makes her knowledge accessible, especially to younger audiences, who are often the most vulnerable to mental health challenges.
A Story of Passion and Purpose
From the quiet moments in classrooms to bustling hospital corridors and vibrant online spaces, Dr. Sri Divya Reddy Kandhi’s journey is a story of passion, resilience, and purpose. Her work not only saves lives but also empowers people to understand their emotions and seek help without hesitation.
Her story serves as an inspiration to all—reminding us that every step, every challenge, and every act of kindness counts. She has proven that being a doctor is not just about treating illnesses; it is about listening, educating, and connecting with people in ways that matter most.
We take immense pride in her achievements and wish her continued success as she continues to champion mental health, bringing light to those who need it the most.
I am deeply grateful to School of medicine, Xiamen University for shaping not only my medical career but also my outlook on life. The multicultural environment and world-class education provided me with the knowledge, skills, and empathy I needed to excel as a psychiatrist. It was here that I learned the importance of resilience, discipline, and compassion every day. The friendships and experiences I gained during my time at Xiamen continue to inspire me. Thank you, Xiamen University, for being the foundation of my journey and for helping me become the person I am today."
