Bollywood superstar Deepika Padukone shared her personal experience with depression while interacting with students at Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Pariksha Pe Charcha 2025 event. Reflecting on her mental health struggles, she highlighted the importance of seeking help and breaking the stigma surrounding mental health.
Signs of depression
Recounting the moment she realized she was battling depression, Deepika said, “After school, there was sports, then modelling, and then acting… I worked continuously. One day in 2014, I passed out. A few days later, I realised I had depression.” She emphasised how mental health struggles are often invisible, making them difficult to recognize. “Depression is something we cannot see. Some people around us may be suffering from anxiety or depression, yet we may never know because they continue to smile and greet everyone,” she explained.
Initially, Deepika did not share her feelings with anyone as she was living alone in Mumbai. However, during a visit from her mother, everything changed. “The day my parents were leaving for Bengaluru, I started crying. My mom asked, ‘What happened? Did someone say something to you?’ I said, ‘No, I don’t know what this is… I feel completely helpless and hopeless. I don’t want to live anymore.’’
Recognising the seriousness of the situation, her mother sought professional help, which Deepika described as a turning point. “I was very lucky that my mother noticed and immediately reached out to a psychologist,” she said.
Addressing the stigma around mental health in India, Deepika noted, “There was a time when people thought, ‘How can I have depression? And if I do, I won’t tell anyone.’ But as soon as I started talking about my illness, I felt free and lighter.”
Prioritising mental health
Padukone underscored the importance of open conversations about mental health, especially among students facing academic pressure. She referenced Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s book Exam Warriors, echoing his advice: “Express, never suppress.” She added, “Talking about your feelings lifts a huge burden. When you acknowledge your emotions, you feel better, allowing you to focus on your studies and lead a healthier, happier life.”