On World Mental Health Day, observed on October 10, conversations around emotional wellbeing, self-awareness and seeking professional help highlight the importance of mental health in everyday life. Actor Anushka Sharma has spoken openly about her experience with anxiety, the importance of treatment and how changing her approach to difficult situations has influenced her life.

From discussing mental health stigma to reflecting on emotional responses, the actor’s experiences offer an opportunity to understand why acknowledging our feelings and seeking support are important.

Anushka Sharma on Learning to Respond Rather Than React

In an October 2025 interaction with her husband, cricketer Virat Kohli, Anushka spoke about how her approach to challenging situations had changed over the years.

“A few years ago, I would react too quickly to situations. I think I am learning to respond rather than react now. So that has changed the quality of my life,” she said during a promotional interaction for a sports brand, as reported by The Indian Express.

She also joked about Virat’s animated reactions on the cricket field, playfully suggesting that her changing approach had influenced him too.

Her reflection highlights the value of pausing before responding to difficult situations. While emotions are a natural part of life, taking a moment to understand them can help people make more considered decisions rather than reacting immediately.

‘I’m on Medication for My Anxiety’

Anushka spoke candidly about her experience with anxiety in a January 2015 interview with Vogue India. She also discussed the treatment she was receiving.

“I have anxiety. And I’m treating my anxiety. I’m on medication for my anxiety,” the actor said.

Explaining why she chose to speak publicly about the subject, she emphasised that anxiety and other mental health concerns should not be treated as something shameful.

She also referred to a history of depression in her family and encouraged people to talk more openly about mental health.

Her comments helped bring attention to an important message: seeking professional support for mental health concerns is a normal and valid step towards wellbeing.

Anushka Sharma on Breaking the Stigma Around Mental Health

The actor has stressed that mental health deserves the same seriousness as physical health. Comparing mental health concerns with physical symptoms, she questioned why people would hesitate to seek help for emotional difficulties when they would consult a doctor for persistent physical pain.

“I want to make this my mission, to take any shame out of this, to educate people about this,” she said in the interview.

Her remarks underline the importance of challenging misconceptions that seeking mental health treatment is a sign of weakness. Anxiety and other mental health conditions can affect people from different backgrounds, and appropriate treatment may include therapy, medication or a combination of approaches, depending on individual needs.

Why Emotional Awareness Matters

Anushka’s reflections on responding rather than reacting also connect with the broader conversation around emotional awareness.

Recognising what we feel, understanding what triggers a response and allowing ourselves time to process difficult situations can support healthier communication and decision-making. These skills take practice, and people may benefit from professional guidance when emotional difficulties begin affecting their daily lives.

Emotional wellbeing does not mean avoiding difficult feelings altogether. It involves learning to recognise them, finding constructive ways to manage them and knowing when to seek help.

The Importance of Seeking Support

World Mental Health Day serves as a reminder that conversations about mental health should continue beyond a single day. Anushka Sharma’s openness about anxiety and treatment highlights the value of speaking honestly about mental health challenges without shame or judgement.

If you are experiencing persistent anxiety, emotional distress or difficulties that interfere with everyday life, consider speaking with a qualified mental health professional. Reaching out to someone you trust can also be a helpful first step.

Mental health support in India: You can contact Tele-MANAS at 14416 for free, 24-hour mental health support.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Do not start, stop or change medication without consulting a qualified healthcare professional.