In a candid revelation, Pakistani actress Mahira Khan recently shared her journey through the labyrinth of mental health challenges, unveiling her battle with bipolar disorder. She attributes the onset of this condition to the intense backlash she faced following her role in the 2017 movie 'Raees.' This article delves into Mahira Khan's brave admission and her compelling story of resilience in the face of mental illness.
The Trigger: Backlash After 'Raees'
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Mahira Khan's career took a significant turn when she starred alongside Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan in the action-packed thriller 'Raees.' However, her foray into Indian cinema was short-lived due to political tensions between India and Pakistan, which resulted in a ban on Pakistani artists. Mahira revealed that the backlash she endured following 'Raees' served as the catalyst for her mental health struggles. The criticism and negativity she faced proved overwhelming, pushing her into the depths of despair.
The Diagnosis: Manic Depression
Mahira's journey towards self-discovery and healing led her to a psychiatrist's office, where she received a diagnosis that would change her life forever: manic depression, commonly known as bipolar disorder. In a raw and emotional account during the FWhy podcast, Mahira recounted the moment when her psychiatrist delivered the diagnosis. She admitted, 'It’s been six-seven years; I’ve been on antidepressants. I tried leaving them in the middle, and I went into a very, very dark space.' This revelation shines a light on the importance of destigmatising mental health conditions, encouraging open conversations, and seeking professional help when needed.
A Rollercoaster Journey: Battling Bipolar Disorder
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Mahira Khan's journey through the labyrinth of bipolar disorder was far from easy. She shared her experiences of being in and out of hospitals and how her condition continued to deteriorate, even until last year. While external triggers played a role, Mahira emphasised that genetics also played a significant part in her battle. This emphasises the complexity of mental health issues and the need for personalised treatment and support.
The Darkest Moments
The actress also courageously opened up about her darkest moments, recounting a harrowing period from the previous year. She vividly described the isolation and despair she felt, highlighting her inability to even leave her bed or go to the bathroom. However, it was during this dark period that Mahira found solace in a moment of prayer, vowing to grasp any glimmer of hope or light that crossed her path. Resuming her medication marked a turning point, as she gradually began to feel a sense of relief and a renewed ability to smile and feel lighter.
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Silent Struggles: Keeping It Inside
One of the most poignant aspects of Mahira Khan's journey is her admission that, even in her darkest moments, she chose not to project her suffering outwardly. She carried her pain silently, highlighting the often invisible nature of mental health challenges. Her story serves as a reminder that anyone, regardless of their public persona, can grapple with mental health issues (How You Can Help Someone Suffering From Depression), and seeking help is an essential step towards recovery.
Gratitude And Resilience
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Throughout her ordeal, Mahira Khan expressed immense gratitude to her friends, family, and therapist, who provided unwavering support. Their presence and understanding were pillars of strength during her darkest hours. Mahira's resilience shines through as she acknowledges the need to work through her depression and even dance through it, underscoring the importance of finding coping mechanisms that work uniquely for each individual.
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Mahira Khan's revelation about her battle with bipolar disorder after the backlash from 'Raees' is a poignant reminder of the complex nature of mental health. Her openness about her struggles and her journey towards healing serves as an inspiration for others facing similar challenges. It underscores the significance of erasing the stigma surrounding mental health and the importance of seeking professional help, leaning on a support system, and finding one's unique path to recovery. Mahira Khan's story is not just about a star's battle; it's a beacon of hope for anyone navigating the labyrinth of mental illness.
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