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In an era where social media can build and break personas with equal fervour, Bollywood actor Ananya Panday’s candid revelations about her mental health struggles shed light on the darker side of fame. Speaking at Barkha Dutt's We The Women event, Ananya reflected on the immense pressure of dealing with social media trolling, being labelled a "nepo baby," and how therapy became her lifeline during those trying times.
The Toll of Trolling: Feeling ‘Not Good Enough’
Navigating the initial years of her Bollywood career was far from smooth for Ananya. The actor shared that relentless trolling left her questioning her abilities and self-worth. “I would just break down,” she confessed, admitting that the negativity even made her reluctant to step onto sets. The online vitriol, combined with the heavy label of nepotism due to her lineage as Chunky Panday’s daughter, deeply affected her peace of mind.
While the trolls may have had their say, Ananya’s inner battles were much more profound. She revealed that she struggled to articulate her emotions during those times. Feeling overwhelmed and unable to process her thoughts, she decided to seek therapy—a decision that proved transformative.
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Therapy as a Beacon of Clarity
Opening up about her experience, Ananya said, “I have done therapy in the past; I am not as regular now. But at the time, I couldn’t articulate my feelings. I used to just feel very, very down.” Therapy allowed her to make sense of her emotions, consolidate her feelings, and better articulate her thoughts.
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One of the most insidious effects of social media, she explained, is the delayed impact of negative comments. “You may read something and think you’re fine, but it sits in your subconscious. Over time, it piles up,” she remarked. Therapy, however, provided her with tools to recognize these patterns and cope with the psychological toll of being in the public eye.
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The Stigma Around Mental Health: Breaking the Silence
Ananya also addressed the stigma surrounding mental health, particularly in the entertainment industry. While she acknowledged that conversations around mental health have become more open, she believes there’s still a long way to go. “It has gotten a lot better, but there’s still stigma,” she said.
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Her decision to speak about her struggles publicly is a testament to her courage, especially in an environment where vulnerability is often perceived as weakness. By sharing her journey, Ananya hopes to normalize seeking help and encourage others to prioritize their mental well-being.
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The Weight of False Narratives and Cyberbullying
One of the more painful memories Ananya recalled involved a fabricated Instagram account claiming she had lied about her education. Initially dismissive, she was shocked when the false narrative gained traction. “People believed it, and that upset me,” she said.
The cyberbullying didn’t begin with her acting career; it started much earlier. Recalling her school days, she shared how classmates labeled her with hurtful nicknames like “hunchback” and “chicken legs.” The rise of social media has amplified such voices, making it harder to escape negativity. Some days, Ananya admits, she avoids social media altogether to protect her mental space.
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Small Steps to Mental Wellness
Ananya’s experience highlights the importance of daily practices to nurture mental health. Incorporating small but effective habits can make a significant difference:
- Mindfulness Meditation: Spending a few minutes each day focusing on the present can help manage stress and improve self-awareness.
- Regular Exercise: Physical activity releases endorphins, boosting mood and energy levels.
- Adequate Sleep: A rested mind is better equipped to handle stress. Aim for eight hours of sleep every night.
- Screen Time Boundaries: Limit exposure to social media and negative news to avoid unnecessary anxiety.
- Gratitude Journaling: Reflecting on three positive aspects of your day can promote a healthier mindset.
- Social Connections: Spending quality time with loved ones fosters emotional resilience.
- Professional Help: Therapy can provide valuable tools and strategies to cope with overwhelming emotions.
Ananya’s Message: It’s Okay to Seek Help
Ananya Panday’s openness about her struggles serves as a reminder that no one is immune to the pressures of modern life. Whether it’s dealing with social media trolls or battling internal insecurities, her journey underscores the importance of prioritizing mental health.
In a world that often celebrates perfection, Ananya’s vulnerability is a powerful message to her fans: It’s okay to struggle, and it’s okay to seek help. By sharing her story, she not only destigmatizes therapy but also inspires others to embark on their own paths to healing.