Proactive coping style
SAID
Participants in both arms described how the problem‐solving approach encouraged them to use more proactive coping strategies rather than letting problems build up.My problems were focusing on academics and managing time [for studying]; both are much better now. It was most helpful when the [counsellor] said, ‘You should make a timetable.’ I made a timetable, and I benefited a lot from it. I followed it and [even after a year] still do it whenever I feel there is high [work] load. It is going very well. I am beginning to understand that in this situation, I can control myself, discuss and arrive at a solution instead of getting angry. And if I can discuss it normally, the situation may resolve faster. While participants from both arms discussed the use and benefits of problem solving when applied to their original presenting problems, examples of generalizing problem‐solving skills proactively to other problems over the 12‐month period were restricted to the counsellor‐led format.If there is a tension about something, I can solve it with this [POD steps]. This has helped me prepare notes when studying, improve relationships with friends, and build on my communication skills. Many situations can be worked out through these [steps], from family matters to everything else. [During counselling] I would make a plan and then work on it. So, I would develop 6–7 options – so if one didn't work, I could work on another. So, similarly, in future, when needed, I will make a plan and develop options and implement them one‐by‐one [to solve a problem]. 