How to talk about mental health?

Honestly, the hardest part is starting the talk without making it sound like a dramatic movie scene. Just tell a close friend, 'Hey, my brain is acting like a slow dial-up internet lately, can we talk?' It breaks the ice and makes it less scary!

If you are struggling to find the words, you should reach out to a professional counselor at a reputed hospital. They are trained to make you feel comfortable and guide the conversation. Don't hesitate to book an appointment and talk openly.

In our homes, elders often say 'just go for a walk and you will feel fine,' but that does not always work. It is important to respect family advice, but you must trust a doctor when it comes to clinical anxiety or depression. Speak to a professional first.

I ignored my constant sadness and fatigue for two years, thinking it was just work stress, and it ruined my personal life. Please do not make the mistake I made. Speak up, go see a doctor or a psychiatrist, and get yourself checked before things get worse.

I totally get it, bringing up your mental health struggles feels incredibly risky and exhausting. You wonder if people will judge you or treat you differently. Start with one person you trust completely and just say you've been having a tough time lately.

I want to talk to my parents about my anxiety, but I keep crying every time I even think about starting the conversation. Does this happen to anyone else? How did you manage to speak without breaking down completely?

As a mother whose teenager went through a very dark patch, I learned that you just need to listen without judging. If you are trying to talk to your family, tell them clearly how you feel inside without worrying about their immediate reaction. We parents do care, we just sometimes don't know how to help.