Gunjan Sharma (BOMBAY TIMES; September 15, 2018)

Depression and sadness may feel similar but are two completely different things,” asserted Deepika Padukone. The actress, who has always been vocal about mental illness, was speaking at a session, titled ‘Finding beauty in imperfection’ in Delhi, organised by a ladies organisation. The session was attended by Pinky Reddy, president of the organisation and moderated by Anna Chandy, Deepika’s therapist.

While this was not the first time that Deepika had opened up about her struggle with depression, however, she said she feels happy to be sharing her journey whenever she gets a chance. “Four years ago, when I narrated my journey, I didn’t think of it as being brave, I didn’t think it was going to be revolutionary. I just felt that it was important for me to share something that was very personal to me, something that had changed my life. I felt that if I can save at least one life by sharing my story, I would be very grateful. And I think coming out has, at least, helped start a conversation but we still have a long way to go,” said Deepika.

When asked what is going to be her next step, Deepika stressed on educating the caregivers. She added, “Fortunately for me, my mother recognised my symptoms very early on and took me to a counsellor. It is important to educate parents and teachers about the symptoms of depression. Sadness can happen more often and is more like a passing emotion. Depression, however, is an emotion which stays with us for a longer period of time.” She goes on to add that, “Anxiety and depression are clinical disorders and not ‘bad karma’ as some people say. If someone really wants to help, then avoid saying things like ‘go watch a movie’ or ‘try to stay happy’. It actually makes us sadder.”

Deepika said that she is still apprehensive about the issue. “My experience with depression was so bad that even today I fear that I will slip into it again. Today, I am a much happier person. I am more aware of my physical and mental health. I realised that self-love and self-care, without feeling guilty, are extremely important. It is also important to have a work-life balance. It is okay to be unavailable for a while and just have a human interaction,” she signed off.