“Ananya Panday Talks Mental Health Journey: Therapy Helped Her Cope with Social Media Trolls” -

Ananya Panday Opens Up About Mental Health Struggles and Impact of Social Media Trolls

In a candid interview with Barkha Dutt on We The Women, actress Ananya Panday shared how online hate and constant trolling impacted her mental health during her initial years in Bollywood. The actress, who has been vocal about her journey, revealed that she would often feel “very, very down” and, at times, even found herself “just breaking down.” Ananya also confessed that, during this difficult period, she did not want to go to work or appear on sets, grappling with feelings of inadequacy.

When asked if being labeled a “nepo baby” contributed to her emotional struggles, she admitted that it did have an impact, particularly when she faced harsh criticism on social media. The weight of these comments, despite appearing trivial at first, gradually began to take a toll on her peace of mind.

Ananya recalled that, although she would try to brush off hurtful comments, their lingering effects would creep up on her subconscious. “You may read something in the moment and think ‘I am fine right now, I am having a good day, I am busy’,” she explained. “I will read a comment and I will ignore it. But weeks later, it could still be there in your subconscious somewhere, and things really pile up.”

To cope with the overwhelming emotions and struggles, Ananya sought therapy. She revealed that therapy helped her process and articulate her feelings better, allowing her to deal with the emotional burden more effectively. “With therapy, I was just able to consolidate my feelings and articulate my thoughts a little better,” she said.

Although she’s no longer as regular with her therapy sessions, Ananya noted that her mental health journey has made her more aware of her emotions and better equipped to navigate the pressures of fame and social media. This powerful revelation emphasizes the importance of seeking help when dealing with mental health issues, especially in the face of constant public scrutiny.

In a world where celebrities often face online hate, Ananya’s vulnerability in sharing her story serves as a reminder of the need for empathy, self-care, and the importance of mental health in the entertainment industry.

Ananya Panday Reflects on Mental Health Struggles and the Stigma of Talking About It

In a heartfelt conversation with Barkha Dutt on We The Women, Ananya Panday opened up about the challenges of discussing mental health publicly and the stigma that still surrounds it. The actress acknowledged that while it has improved over time, there is still a significant stigma attached to mental health conversations. “It has gotten a lot better,” Ananya said, but emphasized that we still have a long way to go in normalizing such discussions, especially in the public eye.

When asked about the worst trolling she’s experienced, Ananya recalled numerous hurtful moments but cited one particular instance that stood out. “Honestly, a lot has been said about me, so I can’t really choose one moment… Sometimes when I can’t control a narrative, it really upsets me,” she shared. Early in her career, a fake Instagram account was created that claimed to be from someone who went to school with her, accusing her of lying about her education and college admission. While she initially dismissed it, hoping no one would believe the fabricated story, she was surprised to see people actually took it seriously.

Ananya further reflected on how social media amplifies even the smallest voices, making it a “scary time” for many. “When I was in school, I had been called everything from hunchback to flat chest to chicken leg and hairy,” she said. “But we were in a bubble, and now, because of social media, the smallest of voices can be amplified across the world.” The accessibility of social media and the widespread reach it offers can make navigating personal and professional life particularly difficult, especially when facing unkind comments and rumors.

Despite the negativity, Ananya also shared the emotional toll of being constantly scrutinized and how, at times, she just didn’t want to be on social media at all. The actress’s vulnerability in discussing her experiences highlights the ongoing pressure faced by young stars in the age of social media and serves as an important reminder of the need for greater understanding and empathy when it comes to mental health struggles in the public sphere.

By sharing her own journey, Ananya Panday not only addresses the realities of trolling but also helps break down the barriers surrounding mental health conversations, encouraging others to speak up and seek help when needed.

10 Daily Habits to Boost Mental Health, According to Dr. Jyoti Kapoor

In our fast-paced, often overwhelming lives, taking care of mental health is just as important as physical fitness. Dr. Jyoti Kapoor, founder-director and senior psychiatrist at Manasthali, shared 10 simple yet effective habits that can significantly enhance mental well-being. Here’s how you can nurture your mind each day:

Practice Mindfulness Meditation: Set aside a few minutes daily to meditate. This practice helps ground you, reduces stress, and increases self-awareness, leading to a more balanced emotional state.
Exercise Regularly: Whether it’s a brisk walk, yoga, or a more intense workout, physical activity releases endorphins that boost your mood and reduce stress.
Prioritize Sleep: Aim for at least 8 hours of quality sleep. A well-rested mind is more resilient to stress and better equipped to handle daily challenges.
Connect with Loved Ones: Cultivate relationships with family and friends. Emotional support from loved ones strengthens your social connections and provides comfort during difficult times.
Control Screen Time: Limit your time on social media and news platforms, especially when consuming negative content. Too much screen time can increase feelings of anxiety and stress.
Practice Gratitude: Start a gratitude journal. Write down three things you’re grateful for each day. This simple practice fosters a positive mindset and shifts focus away from negative thoughts.
Learn Something New: Engage your brain by acquiring new skills or knowledge. Whether it’s a hobby or an educational pursuit, learning stimulates your mind and boosts confidence.
Establish a Routine: Create a structured daily schedule that balances work, relaxation, and self-care. A consistent routine reduces uncertainty and helps manage stress.
Express Yourself: Find creative outlets like art, writing, or music to express your emotions. This can serve as a therapeutic release, helping you process feelings and reduce mental clutter.
Take Professional Help if Needed: If you find yourself struggling with your mental health, don’t hesitate to seek support from a mental health professional. Therapy provides valuable coping strategies and emotional support.