Long gone has the time when celebrities would hesitate in talking about fragile mental health or depression.Thanks to Deepika Padukone, who took the lead and started candid conversations to destigmatize mental health.?
Actor Banita Sandhu, most recently seen in Shoojit Sircar's Sardar Udham, had a candid conversation and spoke about her struggle with depression.?
"And it was something I have been battling for three years, and if I am honest, it¡¯s something I will always battle and live with. But because I worked on my mental health with therapy and the support around me, I am much better equipped to handle it now. I went through depression and got better, too, before the pandemic hit. So when it hit, it was almost like my depression prepared me for it because I knew that at the end of the day, all my mental health and health needs are the most basic things - which is a routine, my family, food, and being able to stimulate my mind creatively."?
She added, "I am not saying the pandemic was easy for me. It was difficult for everyone, but I was much better equipped than my friends, who hadn¡¯t acknowledged mental health before the pandemic. It was a blessing in disguise, and if anything, I am grateful for the mental health that keeps me grounded, on track, and in check with what¡¯s important in life.¡±?
In recently released Sardar Udham, Banita played Reshma, a mute girl from Punjab who witnessed the heartbreaking Jallianwala Bagh massacre.
(Also read:?15 Celebrities Who Destigmatized Depression & Mental Health Issues By Sharing Their Stories)