Deepika Padukone has officially become the Government of India's first Mental Health Ambassador, a milestone that reflects how far India's dialogue around mental health has come, and how much further it needs to go. Speaking about the honour, she said mental health should be embraced rather than shamed. "My own journey taught me that it is not a sign of weakness to seek help, but a sign of strength."
Over the years, Deepika has shared her personal experience with depression and built awareness through her Live Love Laugh Foundation. The appointment reinforces her mission to make mental healthcare accessible, compassionate and stigma-free. Times Now asked Neha Cadabam, Senior Psychologist and Executive Director at Cadabam's Hospitals, why stigma persists and what people should know.
Sadness or depression? Why the difference matters
One of the biggest challenges in our society, Neha Cadabam explained, is that people struggle to tell the difference between sadness and depression, and that confusion feeds stigma. "Normal sadness is temporary and usually tied to specific events, while depression lasts for weeks or months and affects various aspects of life," she said. "Depression often comes with changes in sleep, appetite, energy, and motivation, signs that should never be ignored."
When to seek help
"Help should be sought when emotional or psychological difficulties persist and begin to affect everyday life," she advised. Sadness, anxiety or feelings of hopelessness that last more than two weeks are a signal to reach out to a professional. Seeking help early is crucial, since timely intervention allows better management and prevents symptoms from worsening.
Small daily practices that build resilience
Neha Cadabam also highlighted the value of a ritual of small daily practices that build long-term resilience. "Mindfulness, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and maintaining social connections help individuals manage stress and maintain emotional balance," she suggested. Creative outlets such as painting and journaling can help people find joy, and she called them "simple yet powerful tools for emotional clarity."
With Deepika leading the national conversation and experts guiding the way, Times Now wrote, India is taking a vital step towards normalising mental health, where asking for help becomes as natural as seeing a doctor for physical pain.
Support at Cadabam's Hospitals
If low mood, anxiety or hopelessness have lasted more than two weeks and are affecting your daily life, it is time to talk to someone. Cadabam's Hospitals offers confidential assessment and evidence-based treatment for depression and anxiety, with a team that helps you build lasting resilience. We are here to help.