Mahira Khan Opens Up About Overcoming Depression, Champions Mental Health Awareness
Renowned Pakistani actress Mahira Khan bravely shared her personal journey battling depression, urging others to seek professional help and break the stigma surrounding mental health. In a recent interview on Aamna Haider Isani’s podcast Inner Star, Khan candidly discussed her struggles, emphasizing the importance of understanding mental health as a legitimate illness requiring treatment.
"It’s easy to talk about mental health on the surface, but it’s really difficult to delve deeper," Khan confessed. Recalling a time when she was deeply troubled, she said, "I was really, really, really depressed, and people would tell me how incredible my life was. But that’s not what you say to someone because it’s a disease. It’s a chemical imbalance".
Khan stressed the importance of recognizing mental health conditions like depression and bipolar disorder as medical illnesses with proven treatments, including medication and therapy. She credited medication as instrumental in her recovery, alongside the unwavering support of loved ones, including her son, family, and friends. "I think that’s very, very important, the support system is very important," she emphasized.
Khan passionately advocated for open conversations about mental health, dispelling the shame often associated with seeking help. She highlighted the benefits of connecting with support groups and sharing experiences. "I think it’s important to detach shame from mental health and talking about it," she stated. "I’ve had so many people come up to me and say thank you, and ask me, ‘What did you do, who did you go to?’ The amount of people I’ve sent to different therapists and psychiatrists is insane.”
Khan encouraged individuals to identify their triggers and develop coping mechanisms, acknowledging her own vulnerability. When asked if she could pinpoint her personal triggers, she responded, "I can.”
Beyond her transparency about mental health, Khan also spoke about the importance of self-love and reinvention. Inspired by successful women like Bushra Ansari and Atiqa Odho who have thrived in their personal and professional lives, Khan spoke about finding joy in simple pleasures and prioritizing self-care.
"I get immense joy from working, it keeps me healthy and happy, and that is something that I would tell women as well, whatever it may be, whatever gives you joy, do it," she shared.
Whether it’s pursuing a hobby, traveling, or simply enjoying a moment of solitude, Khan encourages women to embrace activities that bring them happiness. "There is no age," she affirmed, highlighting the unlimited potential for growth and fulfillment at any stage of life.
