The Initial Struggles
Deepika Padukone, in her pursuit of mental health advocacy, has openly discussed the initial hurdles she encountered. She explained that one of the primary
challenges was initiating conversations about mental health. The stigma around it was considerable, making it difficult to find people willing to openly discuss their experiences. Further, she highlighted the scarcity of readily available resources and support systems in the initial stages, noting how this lack complicated her efforts to support those in need. Her commitment to mental health advocacy was driven by her own experiences and a desire to help others avoid the challenges she faced. These early struggles provided the foundation for her future work, which has focused on expanding awareness and improving the availability of mental health support across India.
Gully Cricket Analogy
Deepika Padukone employed a relatable and impactful analogy to articulate her vision for mental health support in India: gully cricket. By likening her aspirations to the widespread accessibility of gully cricket, she conveyed her dream of making mental health resources and support as easily accessible and integrated into everyday life as a casual game. Gully cricket is an informal game, typically played on streets and in local areas across India. It requires minimal equipment and is available to everyone. Similarly, Padukone hopes that support and resources for mental health will become equally available and easily accessible to all. The analogy served to underscore the necessity for reducing barriers, creating inclusive access, and promoting destigmatization, thereby fostering a community where individuals feel safe and encouraged to seek assistance when needed.
Advocacy and Action
Deepika Padukone has taken concrete steps to translate her vision into reality through advocacy and action. She has been actively involved in various campaigns designed to raise awareness about mental health issues, using her platform to encourage open conversations and reduce the stigma associated with mental health disorders. In addition to raising awareness, she has supported initiatives aimed at improving access to mental health resources and care, including the establishment of helplines, promoting mental health literacy in schools and workplaces, and collaborating with mental health professionals. She actively participates in public dialogues and events where she provides insights and shares her experiences. These efforts are aimed at creating a supportive and empathetic environment where individuals feel comfortable seeking help.
The Bigger Picture
Deepika Padukone's advocacy extends beyond providing immediate support; she is keen to foster a society that normalizes conversations about mental health. Her vision is of a society where seeking help is seen as a sign of strength, and people are encouraged to prioritize their mental well-being without hesitation. She aims to influence systemic changes by addressing mental health within education and workplaces, ensuring support systems are readily available. Ultimately, Padukone’s goal is a society that values mental health and provides everyone with the tools and resources they need to thrive. By consistently working to remove the stigma and improve access to care, she hopes to create lasting change across India.
