Last Word: Christine Suniti Bhat

Bhat’s research has focused on cyberbullying prevention and, most recently, the development of psychological capital—hope, efficacy, resilience and optimism—deemed essential to professional success and personal satisfaction.

Recently, Bhat was named the first Dr. Tommie Radd Professor of School Counseling. Established in 2020 by Dr. Tommie Radd, the professorship will provide annual research funding and other financial support and intellectual property to OHIO’s Department of Counseling and Higher Education.

Ohio Today caught up with Bhat to talk career, mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic and what brings her professional and personal happiness.

What made you want to study and teach counseling?
I believe in the human capacity to heal and in the importance of providing support to those who are struggling with life’s challenges. It is a beautiful thing to walk with clients through dark days and to help them reach a place of hope.

What inspired your research into cyberbullying and cyberbullying prevention?
Technology is such an indispensable part of our lives. Unfortunately, the power of information and communication technology (ICT) can be weaponized to harm in grievous ways. I saw students dealing with vicious cyberbullying in schools, and this motivated me to focus on understanding this complex and ever-changing issue better and to focus on promoting the safe and ethical use of ICT.

Mental health is an important topic right now given the COVID-19 pandemic. How have you seen the pandemic affecting Ohio University students?
We are all learning to live with uncertainty and a major change from life as we knew it. Students have had to adapt to learning online, to having a physically distant college experience and are confronting a more uncertain future. In addition to the pandemic, there have been renewed concerns about racial justice and increased levels of economic hardship. OHIO students, like students around the world, are experiencing higher levels of depression and anxiety. Staying connected, not allowing oneself to be sucked into the vortex of negativity and remaining optimistic about the future while keeping track of positives in the present are crucial.

If you could offer one piece of advice to individuals coping with mental health issues right now, what would it be?
Don’t go it alone. Nurture connections with others. Engage in counseling and treatment. Counseling and Psychological Services at OHIO provides excellent services that are covered under the well-being plan. You wouldn’t ignore diabetes or a heart condition. Isn’t your mind worth taking care of?

How do you relax and/or recharge? Is there a particular place on campus or somewhere outdoors that provides that outlet for you?
How fortunate we are to live in beautiful Athens! I love being outdoors when the weather permits. The Ridges and the bike path are my favorites. Nature is healing and restoring.

What is your favorite tradition or holiday, and why?
Anytime that I can get together with my immediate and extended family and where there is love, laughter, music and good food is a time I cherish.

If you could have an unlimited supply of one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Positive energy that comes from loving relationships and from contributing to the greater good.

What do you want to be remembered for, personally and/or professionally?
Professionally, as someone who mentored and supported many students to be successful over the years. Personally, as a kind and loving being.

Featured image: Dr. Christine Suniti Bhat, PHD ’03, is pictured along the Hockhocking Adena Bikeway, one of her favorite places on campus. Photo by Ben Wirtz Siegel, BSVC ’02