24th August 2023, Mumbai: In the wake of the global pandemic, the world has been confronted with a new perspective on health—one that extends beyond the physical realm. The significance of mental well-being has come to the forefront, as the collective realization dawns that while we diligently cared for our bodies, we often neglected the needs of our minds. Unveiling a long-held societal stigma, the discussion around mental health is undergoing a transformation, spurred by changing times. Conditions such as depression and anxiety, once hushed in the shadows, are now being openly acknowledged, thanks to courageous voices that refuse to be silenced.
A New Dawn of Openness
Renowned humanitarian Somy Ali, who transitioned from acting to spearheading the NGO No More Tears (NMT), acknowledges the evolving landscape with satisfaction. She celebrates the newfound acknowledgment of mental health’s significance, attributing a debt of gratitude to individuals like Deepika Padukone. Deepika’s candidness about her own struggles shattered barriers and taboos surrounding mental health, sparking a much-needed dialogue. Somy Ali reflects, “It’s not easy and particularly in our culture it’s not given any attention, but just by sharing her own truth, Deepika did a complete 180 on us not only conversing about depression or suicidal thoughts, but even ways of seeking help.”
From Struggle to Empowerment
Drawing from personal experience, Somy Ali delves into her journey of confronting and managing mental health challenges. She speaks of her inherited propensity towards depression from her maternal side, recounting the turbulence that marked her upbringing and early adulthood. Despite the arduous path, Somy emphasizes the attainability of healing with a resolute mindset and determined effort. Her words echo a poignant truth: that while the path may be tough, it is never insurmountable for those who are determined to seek solace and well-being.
Deepika’s Impact: Shattering Stereotypes
Somy Ali reverently applauds Deepika Padukone’s transformative role in reshaping the discourse on mental health. The actor’s candid admission and subsequent initiative ignited a revolution of vulnerability, especially within a culture where such struggles were often brushed aside. Somy’s words of praise resonate deeply: “Bravo to Deepika and much respect to her initiative. She has saved many lives by speaking her truth and being so vulnerable which is extremely difficult in our culture where typically depression is not thought of as a serious ailment, but shrugged off as one simply having a bad day.”
As society witnesses a paradigm shift, conversations about mental health are no longer relegated to the shadows. These conversations, sparked by fearless individuals like Deepika Padukone and sustained by advocates like Somy Ali, serve as guiding beacons of hope. In a world that’s slowly dismantling stigma, acknowledging the vitality of mental well-being is not just an act of courage, but a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.