Deepika Padukone on her experience with depression

Deepika Padukone stunned everyone by opening up to her experience with depression. During an event, Deepika Padukone spoke about her struggles with depression, she said, "I never thought about what people are going to think of me, will I be offered films or whether it will affect my popularity."

Deepika Padukone has set up a foundation that spreads awareness about depression. "With the help of the foundation, we want to change the narrative around mental health in India. Why only Bollywood? We want everybody in influential positions in the country to speak out about these issues," said Deepika.

Deepika added, "Now that you’re asking me, maybe I should have since I just delivered a 300-crore hit (Padmavat). But no, I never thought about what people will think of me, or how it would affect my work or if I would be offered any films. None of these thoughts ever crossed my mind."

"I was only thinking about how I felt about the issue: There was a lot of stigma attached to it. I thought if I could save even one life by sharing my story, everything I set out to do would make sense. And today, when I see the kind of impact we’ve had in the lives of thousands of people, it is very gratifying," added the actress.

"Considering how deep-rooted this issue is, in terms of the stigma attached to it, the reluctance to seek help, or people’s perception towards those with mental illness, we still have a long way to go. India needs to focus on encouraging people to seek help,” she further explained.

Deepika mentioned that it brings a relief from the stress by sharing one’s personal experience with depression. She said, "I think it eventually boils down to each person’s comfort level, how comfortable or confident they are about sharing their experience. I can say that it is extremely empowering once you share your journey, you kind of feel a weight off your shoulders, I mean that’s my personal experience."