The pandemic was not only physically, but mentally tough on many people, says actor Manjari Mishra. Manjari, who was seen in Gujarati film Fuleku, Bollywood film Rocket Gang, and the short film Main Tumhara, says that the pandemic brought in a lot of fear and anxiety in people, which they are still fighting till date.
“The Covid-19 pandemic and lockdown have brought a sense of fear and anxiety to almost everyone. It was a challenging time not only physically but also mentally. Many people faced difficulties, and I read about cases where individuals struggled with their mental health. Some even found it hard to realise that they weren’t mentally well, leading to more problems. In the news, there were stories highlighting the importance of addressing issues like depression, anxiety, and overall mental health during this time. It’s important to acknowledge that everything happens for a reason, and I believe that the pandemic has rightly put the spotlight on mental health. People have given significant importance to discussions around mental well-being, and that’s a positive aspect amid challenging times,” she says.
However, she adds that these tough times have increased mental health awareness as well. “These days, there’s a lot of talk about mental health, mental peace, and depression. Numerous organizations and institutes have opened up where they educate people on these matters, teaching them how to handle these issues. It’s a positive development and the need of the hour. Mental health is finally receiving the importance it deserves. In the past, discussing mental health was often stigmatised, and admitting to needing therapy or support was challenging. However, things have changed, and now both physical and mental health are being given equal importance. Information about mental health is widely available on platforms like Google, reaching adults, teenagers, and even kids. People are reading, understanding, and seeking help if they face difficulties. It’s great that conversations about mental health are happening openly, allowing everyone to access knowledge and support from those around them. I believe that in the future, we will continue to discuss mental health more openly and give it the importance it deserves, just like we do with physical health,” she says.
Talking about sharing your innermost feelings, she says, “When it comes to mental health, sharing your feelings and emotions is an important step towards feeling okay. If you find yourself in a situation where you want to express your thoughts or share your feelings, it’s important to first reach out to someone you trust whether it’s your parents, a family member, a best friend, a close friend, or a partner. If you feel uncomfortable sharing with them, seeking professional guidance is the next step. It’s essential not to overshare, but if you find yourself doing so and it doesn’t feel right, if you’re facing challenges or feeling uneasy, always consider taking the next step by confiding in your parents or seeking professional guidance.”
Ask her how she takes care of her mental health, and she says, “I feel that if you want to focus on your mental health, it’s essential to engage in activities that bring you immense joy. Personally, I prioritise my mental well-being by indulging in things I love, like acting and dancing. I make sure to attend dance classes regularly and dedicate at least an hour every day to exercise, yoga, or meditation. I organise my workplace and schedule to minimise disruptions and prevent anxiety, ensuring I can complete my tasks without stress. This approach has been a valuable lesson for me in my journey towards maintaining mental health.”
