World Mental Health Day: &Tv actors talk about its importance for overall wellbeing

In recent years, the conversation regarding mental health has changed for the better, and some celebrities have shared their own challenges, lending support to the cause.

New Delhi: World Mental Health Day, which is observed on October 10th, aims to increase public awareness of mental health issues and mobilise worldwide support.

Leading actors from &TV, including Mohit Dagga (Ashok, Doosri Maa), Himani Shivpuri (Katori Amma, Happu Ki Ultan Paltan), and Soma Rathod, have shared their healthy lifestyle recommendations for maintaining mental fitness (Amma Ji, Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai).

As Ashok in &TV's Doosri Maa, Mohit Dagga shared, “A healthy mind is a precedent for a healthy body. Mental wellbeing is often taken very lightly, unlike physical health. Most people often ignore its signs and symptoms and avoid treatment due to lack of knowledge, fear, or shame. And this mentality needs to change. We all lead a very hectic life, and we must slow down some time."

He further added, "I have incorporated the habit of practising controlled breathing and meditation as a part of my daily ritual. It helps me stay focused, brings positive energy, and relieves stress. It is the ultimate tool that has helped me cope with various challenges while remaining optimistic and focused. On this World Mental Health Day, let us pledge to care for those around us and monitor their behavioural changes”.

As Katori Amma in &TV's Happu Ki Ultan Paltan, Himani Shivpuri said, “Our mental health is linked with our physical health, so it is very important to be mentally fit. One must always focus on mental health care as it increases productivity, enhance your self-image, and improve relationships. I believe that keeping yourself fit physically and mentally is equally important in today's time. There could be many reasons to struggle, but lack of exercise, inconsistent sleeping patterns, and bad eating habits are important concerns because they severely impact one’s physical and mental health. To strike a healthy work-life balance, I ensure that I do not exert myself beyond a certain limit. My yoga, a good book, or a good movie are retreats for me amid my stressful life”.

As Amma Ji in &TV's Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai, Soma Rathod shared, “There was a time when I was confronted with issues like body shaming which made me anxious, angry and depressed. But with time, I started focusing on Self-Love, which changed my view of things completely. I also took up meditation and concentrated on things that truly made me happy. It brought about a positive change in me overall with time."

She further said, "Besides, I also learnt not to take anything personally or get affected by other people’s views of me. Meditation helped a lot in achieving this sense of calmness and forgiveness. Now, it has become a part of my life. I meditate at home and sometimes in between my shoots, which helps me stay calm and collected and carry on with my day with much ease. Alongside physical health, mental health must be completely healthy.”