Deepika Padukone's Emotional Speech About Mental Health Is What Everyone Needs To Hear
We have a bucket full of reasons as to why we love Deepika Padukone so much - to begin with, she always stands for what she believes in, like turning up for the protests in solidarity with JNU students without thinking twice about her movie's box collection. The actress has also been vocal about her struggle with depression, telling her story again to increase awareness around mental health and therapy. It is surely not easy to open up the saddest parts of yourself which a person would never want to think again but this diva makes sure to do it anyway. Well, this and her precious dimpled smile are just some of the reasons why we adore her so much.
While being honoured at the Crustal Awards at the World Economic Forum in, the Chhapaak actress addressed her mental health and the need to raise awareness about it. "In the time that it has taken me to accept this award, the world has lost one more person to suicide," said DP. She also put emphasis on the statistics that every 40 seconds, one person succumbs to suicide. Deepika listed the economic effect of depression and anxiety on the global economy, estimating it to be at one trillion dollars.
Photo from Instagram
She then delved into her personal story and talked about her own struggles with anxiety and depression, which began in February 2014, and how often she thought of 'giving up'. She detailed how her mother made her seek professional health.
Deepika also busted the myth around mental health, quoting, "Depression is a common medical illness. It is important to understand that anxiety and depression are like any other illness and are treatable. Acceptance is the first step to recovery. It was the experience with this illness that encouraged me to set up Live Love Laugh."
Her relationship with the illness has taught her so much. "You are not alone," she added, "But more importantly, there is hope."
Here, watch the full video posted on Instagram, below.
As per a report by the WHO, India is leading as the most depressed country in the world followed by China and the USA. We really need to make dialogues around mental health more common.
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Feature Image: Instagram
Text By: GirlStyle IN
