World Mental Health Day: Celebs Open Up About What Mental Health Means To Them

Here’s what they have to say:

Somy Ali

First of all, I would like to emphasize that this is the one day that actually matters to me personally for several reasons. If our mental health is not stable, our lives will inevitably remain meaningless and we will be simply breathing vegetables without a purpose. That’s in my opinion the worst way to be alive and to exist. What’s worse is that given the stigma attached to even bringing up mental health makes it so difficult for educated people to seek help let alone those who are not privileged enough or had an opportunity to obtain an education. Thus, they don’t even have a concept of what mental health is and how much of a toll it takes in our survival if it isn’t addressed. Routine, exercise, getting out of your house, having a healthy social circle, and above all, if you have the slightest doubt that something doesn’t seem right and you are constantly feeling sad, you must immediately seek help via a professional. It’s better to do that than worry about what society will think and end up dead. Watching old Hindi films and listening to old Hindi music makes me happy. Of course working for my NGO is my first love and helping people is the most euphoric feeling I have ever experienced. That I pray I will always be able to continue till my last breath as that brings me eternal joy.

Simaran Kaur

Mental health, in my view, is like the compass that guides my overall well-being. It's the ability to maintain a balanced and positive state of mind, even during life's ups and downs. It involves emotional resilience, self-awareness, and the capacity to cope with stress and adversity while maintaining a sense of inner peace.Good mental health requires a holistic approach. It includes practicing self-compassion, managing stress effectively, fostering healthy relationships, seeking support when needed, and maintaining a positive perspective on life. Self-care, both physically and emotionally, plays a pivotal role in sustaining good mental health.On days when I feel low, I prioritize self-care and self-compassion. I allow myself to acknowledge my emotions without judgment and seek comfort through activities that bring me solace, like reading, meditation, or spending time in nature. Connecting with supportive friends and focusing on positive aspects of life helps me regain my emotional balance.

Falaq Naaz

The stigma surrounding mental health is still a significant challenge. This reluctance can be attributed to various factors, including societal misconceptions, fear of judgment, or simply a lack of understanding about mental health issues. Breaking down these barriers is essential to ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to prioritize and maintain their mental well-being. No matter how diligently we adhere to a healthy lifestyle, exercise regularly, and eat well, the impact on our overall health may be limited if we are not mentally healthy. When my schedule becomes overwhelmingly busy, I've found solace in simple practices like listening to music in the car to refresh my mind or sharing my feelings with family or close friends can be remarkably therapeutic. Self-care is a fundamental aspect of maintaining good mental health.

Andy Kumar

Taking care of our mental health is of utmost importance, yet it often takes a backseat in our busy lives. We tend to prioritize physical health and fitness, but we sometimes forget that our mental well-being is equally crucial. Personally, I've recognized the significance of maintaining mental calmness, particularly during moments of frustration and stress. Each of us faces a unique set of challenges, but it's crucial to find ways to stay composed in the face of adversity. Moreover, engaging in activities such as playing games, dancing, or meditating can significantly help manage stress and provide the essential time we need for self-reflection and rejuvenation.

Shivangi Verma

The stigma related to mental health continues to be a significant challenge. Despite the increasing efforts to raise awareness and emphasize the importance of mental well-being, many people still hesitate to seek professional assistance.. Mental well-being is of utmost importance as without good mental health, it becomes difficult to concentrate and engage in daily activities. There are various ways to care for our mental health. Staying optimistic is key, as it helps us navigate life's challenges. Keeping ourselves engaged in enjoyable activities, spending time with loved ones, and discussing our concerns with them all contribute to good mental health. I engage in activities like exercise, yoga, or meditation that helps be to be fit physically and mentally

Neel Samarthh

Being mentally healthy means having a positive beat in our hearts, rocking a good mood, and dancing through the ups and downs of life. I've learned that it's not just the absence of mental hurdles; it's about rocking a positive mindset, embracing emotional resilience, and grooving through life's challenges with a healthy state of mind. It's finding harmony within myself, like hitting the perfect note, and building connections that turn life's soundtrack into a fulfilling and joyful melody. In my journey, I've seen how physical health often hogs the limelight, leaving mental well-being in the shadows. It's crucial to understand that these two are inseparable duet partners. Just as we hit the gym for our bodies, setting aside time for mental well-being through practices like mindfulness, a little self-reflection, and reaching out for support when needed is equally crucial. It could be playing with pets, dancing to happy tunes, or just taking a cozy nap. Low days are like clouds; they pass, and the sun always comes back. On the days when I feel like my guitar strings are a little out of tune, I prioritize self-care. It could be jamming with my loved ones, doing activities that bring me joy, or simply having a solo session of introspection. Sometimes, changing the scene or immersing myself in a creative pursuit is the perfect chord to lift my spirits. The key is acknowledging those feelings and tuning them positively.

Pavleen Gujral

I think people concentrate too much on their exterior beauty and how they are perceived by others in terms of physical appearance. But what really matters at the end of the day is what you are inside. I believe people need to focus more on mental health. People need to sit and learn to be with themselves without doing anything because that gives you so much clarity and helps you get to know yourself better. Mental health actually means mental strength to me because you have to make your mind strong enough to be in a state of bliss and calm through any kind of situation, be it happy, sad, or challenging. So, if you can train your mind to be like that and react accordingly, whether it's a good situation or a bad situation, then you have good mental health. On days when I feel low, I don't work. I simply engage in activities that I enjoy, such as watching a good movie, catching up on a series I'm following, meeting friends, or spending time at home with my family. I take that day to switch off and appreciate the things I have, which instantly makes me feel better. Additionally, being in a calm and fulfilling environment brings me joy.