Need more awareness regarding phobias in country: Radhika Apte

Radhika Apte shares her concerns for panic attacks and its treatment.

Mumbai: Actress Radhika Apte feels a lot of people in the country go through panic attacks and have phobias but are not aware that it requires treatment.

"In the whole world, and in our country even more, people are not aware of phobias. They don't know its a disorder, its a proper biological condition as well. It requires treatment," Radhika said during the song launch of her upcoming film "Phobia".

The 30-year-old "Badlapur" star said panic attacks are rooted in neurological and biological reasons and should be addressed with proper treatment.

"When someone has a panic attack people often say 'what is happening to him... Is he going mad'. At least depression is recognised a lot more today but these phobias are not," Radhika said.

"A psychologist had told me, panic attack is like fever. When it comes to you your body starts reacting. You can't help it. It's neurological, biological. People need to be more aware of that," she added.

"Phobia" focuses on the central character, Mehak, (played by Radhika), an artist by profession, who is scared to leave her house.

The "Manjhi" actress said she read books and watched videos to prepare for the role.

"I do have friend who has panic disorder. I have had panic attacks sometimes and I am sure you must've had it too. I have those friends, I've grown up with them. I know this disorder very well, I come from a doctor's family, my father is a neurosurgeon," she said.

"I had one particular friend of mine who helped me a lot with the research. I read couple of books, saw a lot of videos to understand what happens when you get a panic attack. The description was very helpful," Radhika added.

Produced by Eros International and Next Gen Films, and directed by Pavan Kirpalani, "Phobia" is slated for May 27 release.