From Rubina speaking of TEMPER issues to Nimrit's brain BURNOUT diagnosis: Actors who spoke of mental health

On World Mental Health Day, observed every year on October 10, conversations about emotional well-being take center stage across the globe. While awareness around mental health is growing in India, the stigma still looms large, especially in the entertainment industry, where perfection is often expected and personal struggles are hidden from public view. In recent years, however, several prominent Indian television actors have chosen to speak openly about their own mental health battles. By sharing their stories, they are not just reclaiming their emotional truth but also paving the way for others to seek help without shame or fear. Their voices are especially important today, as the world pauses to reflect on the importance of mental health for all.

Rubina Dilaik:

Rubina Dilaik, one of Indian television’s most admired and successful actresses, stunned audiences with her openness about her emotional struggles during her appearance on Bigg Boss 14. While millions watched her journey on the show, few expected her to reveal her battle with anxiety and suicidal thoughts. In a deeply personal segment, Rubina said, “My relationships with my parents were not that great. I had temper issues, I had suicidal tendencies. Relationship tootne ka bhi yahi reason tha.” She credited genuine support and the presence of close loved ones for helping her navigate one of the darkest periods of her life.

Kamya Punjabi:

Just like Rubina, her Shakti costar Kamya Panjabi, a seasoned actress, spoke with raw honesty about the depression she faced following her breakup with Karan Patel. She found an unexpected lifeline through work, specifically with the show Shakti – Astitva Ke Ehsaas Kii, which arrived at a time when she was emotionally adrift. “Shakti has given me a new life. I was in depression when I joined the show. Karan got married in 2015, and I was in no position to work for almost a year. I was in a very bad state when I joined the show in 2016. Iss show ne mujhe zinda rakha aur ek nayi zindagi dee,” Kamya revealed, underlining how professional opportunities can sometimes help rebuild personal strength.

Himanshi Khurana:

Himanshi Khurana, who gained widespread fame after her stint on Bigg Boss 13, later shared how that very experience led to a period of deep emotional turmoil. In an interview with Sonam Bajwa, she said, “When I went into the Bigg Boss 13 house, everybody thought that this was life-changing, but that was not the reality. I went into depression because of the negativity in the house. I suffered so much that it took me almost two years to come out of it.” Her mental health took a toll on her physical well-being too. “I went into severe depression after Bigg Boss 13, which started affecting my heart. I used to get panic attacks before going to events, shoots, and while I was dancing at Afsana Khan's wedding, I got a heart issue, due to which I was rushed to the hospital. I was in the hospital, and only my close people knew about it.” Despite the public attention, Himanshi admitted that her recovery is ongoing. “It took me so long to recover and build my life again. I am still recovering from it.”

Nimrit Kaur Ahluwalia:

Nimrit Kaur Ahluwalia, best known for her role in Choti Sarrdaarni and a contestant on Bigg Boss 16, has also shared her journey with mental health. Recalling the confusion and lack of understanding from those around her, she said, “Most people didn’t understand what was happening. There is a certain lack of education attached to mental health. We all know of terms like anxiety and depression. I was diagnosed with brain burnout. Everyone was highly confused about what that is. They were throwing assumptions like something was wrong in my personal life and that is why it was triggering.” Nimrit explained that being open with her followers was a conscious choice. “I felt I should be honest with my fans who connect with me. They should also know the downhills and the speed breakers that come along my way.”

Sahil Anand:

Sahil Anand, who played a pivotal role in Kasautii Zindagii Kay 2, made headlines when he posted a heartfelt message announcing a break from social media due to his mental health struggles. In his note, he wrote, “Hi everyone, hope you guys are doing fine. Just wanted all my loved ones to take care of themselves as I have decided to be inactive for some time, I'm not feeling like myself and the last couple of months have been tough on me. Right now, I need space. I feel lost. I feel disassociated. Sometimes your passion can become your worst nightmare. Guys, mental health is important. Kabhi kabhi kuchh wohi cheez zyada affect kar jaati hai jinko hum khud ke jyada kareeb kar lete hai... I tried my best to feel normal but it's only getting worse. TC. Love S.A.” The note triggered concern from his fans, prompting Sahil to later post a video assuring everyone of his recovery. He shared that he had travelled to Chandigarh, met with a psychologist, and was advised to stay off his phone and social media to focus on healing.

Eijaz Khan:

Eijaz Khan, a veteran television actor and Bigg Boss 14 participant, also brought mental health issues to light during his time on the reality show. From past trauma to emotional struggles, he was candid about the complexities of his journey. Speaking to ETimes TV, he said, “I haven't come out of mental illness. It is an on-going process. There are times I am still scared of being alone and sometimes I am scared of my own self. The two years from 2015 to 2017 have been the most difficult one. But now, I know it is fine to seek therapy, it is ok to put your trust in someone else. It is very important that you accept the way it is. It is important to understand, I am like this and I am feeling this way. The more you try to run away from the fact that nothing has happened to you, the more you will suffer from anxiety issues.” His vulnerability helped many viewers relate and reflect on their own emotional experiences.

Anjuum Fakih:

Anjum Fakih, known for her role in Kundali Bhagya, spoke recently about a two-year phase where she battled depression amid a prolonged work drought. She recalled how the lack of offers and constant professional rejection began to wear her down emotionally. “I was in a depressive zone,” she said. “I didn’t have work for two years. I used to feel why I was not getting work or not getting a good character to play.” The uncertainty slowly turned into something heavier. “That feeling started sinking in and I didn’t know when I actually entered the zone of depression,” she admitted. Her story is a powerful reminder that even successful faces on screen can struggle with feelings of worthlessness and doubt when faced with career stagnation.

On World Mental Health Day, these stories serve as important reminders that mental illness does not discriminate by fame, fortune or followers. The willingness of these television stars to speak up not only challenges the stigma that still surrounds mental health in India but also creates space for others to acknowledge their own struggles without fear. Behind the glamour and applause are human beings dealing with emotional highs and lows, and today, their courage deserves not just recognition but respect. As these voices grow louder, they help dismantle silence and in doing so, bring healing a little closer for all.