Actors Who Have Spoken About Battling Depression

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), India is one of the most depressed countries in the world. Depression is a critical state that affects the mentality of an individual. However, this chronic state of depression is not often discussed. It is perfectly fine to discuss swine flu or dengue in public. But, few talk about the state of depression. However, the times are changing. Bollywood actors. who used to be fashion divas earlier, are actively campaigning for issues like depression. Several actresses have spoken about life with depression.

Here are five actresses who have spoken about battling depression:

Deepika Padukone 

At the World Congress on Information Technology and Nasscom India Leadership Forum, the actress spoke on ‘Making mental wellness a boardroom priority’.  The actress revealed that it felt like there's no motivation and during that state, it feels like a burden. She stressed on the need for organizations to have a counsellor.

Pic: NDTV

The actress said, “You are not alone. One in five people suffers from depression. We have to help each other out. It is okay to be vulnerable, to have moments of low, to share and to seek help.”

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Zaira Wasim

17-year-old Zaira Wasim recently broke her silence and talked about depression. With the help of social media, she spoke about her struggle with depression. Zaira has thrilled us with her performance in Dangal and Secret Superstar. But it's hard to believe that the girl was suffering due to depression from the age of 12.

Pic: Tribune India

In her note on Instagram, she mentioned, “ I sensed it could be DEPRESSION. I still remember my first panic attack at the age of 12, the other one at 14 and now all I remember is losing count of the number of panic attacks, losing counts of the number of medicines I’ve had and I’m still having, losing count of the number of times I have been told — It’s nothing, you’re too young to be depressed.”

Ileana D'Cruz

Pic: NDTV Movies

The Barfi actress revealed her state of mind due to depression in a video shoot for a brand. Ileana specified that she never wanted to be an actress. She was very self-conscious about being judged for her body type. Things got worse when she stepped into the acting field. Faced with suicidal attempts, she realized that she had been going through depression. When she accepted that she has body dysmorphic disorder, it was the first step towards a positive change.

Also: Kate Spade Kills Self, Sister Says She Suffered From Depression For Years

Anushka Sharma

In an interview with Vogue in January 2015, Anushka Sharma spoke about suffering from depression and anxiety. The actress openly stated that she was on her medication. She also revealed that in her family she has seen cases of depression. She spoke about the need to educate people about such conditions.

"In my family, there have been cases of depression. More and more people should talk openly about it. There is nothing shameful about it or something to hide." - Anushka Sharma

Manisha Koirala

Pic: India TV

While going through tough times, Koirala posted on Facebook about her battle with depression. The actress's life is like an open book. She faced tough times while coping with cancer and marital discord. She revealed that she was suffering from a clinical disorder.

Hats off these actresses for highlighting a crucial issue and talking about their experiences.