In the wake of World Mental Health Week, many celebrities have been outspoken about mental health and how important it is to maintain good mental health. Sai Tamhankar talks about raising awareness among people and the importance of mental health in everyone’s life.
Have you ever faced mental health problems?
Of course, I have faced mental health issues. I’m glad I was aware of that. There were people who advised me for my own good. Sometimes something is happening to you and you can’t even recognize it.
Could you share more about when and how it happened?
So, my experience of dealing with mental illness happened during the first lockdown. I broke my leg and was home alone for 7 months and it was pretty ridiculous. I had to go to therapy for it. I am aware that I was adrift from being the person I am and I realized it, took therapy and got back on track. Today has only made me stronger and more aware. And it has made me a more sensitive person.
What should be done to create more awareness?
Just as we do the census, I feel that the counseling of each person should be mandatory. Every person in this country should be counseled once every 6 months. It’s like detoxification of the mind and brain, and there is nothing to be ashamed of to align the mind and brain.
What is the secret to not letting negativity affect your mental health?
As an artist, when I entered this field, I think I gave people the right to judge me. I chose it. Therefore, I should own it and everyone should do the same. The secret to not being affected by mental health problems or to keep them at bay is not to be affected by any kind of troll. It must be your choice what to take to your heart and what to keep at bay. Maintaining good health is especially important for celebrities because they are public figures and are in the constant public eye. Our field is very demanding in terms of our time and energy and the kind of emotions that we put into a particular part. So I think the number one priority is to be mentally healthy.
How important is mental health to physical health?
I believe that a mentally healthy person is automatically a physically healthy person. There is a life, and I think we should live it to the fullest instead of wasting time correcting our own problems. End your problems once and for all and lead a happy and positive life.
How important are those close to you when it comes to mental well-being?
It is also very important for one to surround oneself with positive people and positive energies. Don’t ignore your mental health. It is very interconnected with your physical health.
As a farewell, what message would you like to give everyone?
Mental health is extremely essential. It should be listed as your top priority. Only you can protect yourself mentally and emotionally. It’s nobody else. So I feel like everyone needs to practice some kind of mental focus and take care of themselves and it should be a daily practice. Taking some time off should be part of your daily practice. It is also very important to do what you like, just for your own happiness.
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