Sana Saeed Opens Up About Her Battle With Bulimia: 'I Lived With Shame for Years'
newscrab July 28, 2026 02:39 PM

Actor Sana Saeed, best known for playing young Anjali, Shah Rukh Khan's on-screen daughter in Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, has spoken candidly about one of the most difficult chapters of her life. In a heartfelt revelation, she shared that she battled bulimia nervosa, an eating disorder, for several years before finally seeking help and beginning her recovery.

Sana said the condition affected both her physical and mental well-being and left her carrying feelings of shame for a long time.

'I Didn't Know It Was an Illness'

Sana revealed that she lived with the condition for nearly six years without realizing it was a recognized mental health disorder.

According to her, she initially believed it was simply a bad habit that she needed to overcome on her own. Because she felt embarrassed and isolated, she kept her struggle to herself, unaware that many others experience the same condition.

She said learning that her symptoms had a medical name was a turning point in her recovery.

What Is Bulimia Nervosa?

Bulimia nervosa is a serious eating disorder characterized by repeated episodes of eating unusually large amounts of food in a short period, followed by behaviors aimed at preventing weight gain.

These behaviors may include:

  • Self-induced vomiting

  • Excessive exercise

  • Misuse of laxatives or other medications

  • Prolonged fasting after binge eating

It is recognized as a mental health condition and often requires professional treatment and support.

The Pressure to Look a Certain Way

Sana shared that societal expectations, comments about appearance, and the pressure to remain thin contributed to her struggle.

Over time, these factors took a toll on her confidence and emotional health, making it even harder to seek help.

Recovery Took Time

The actress said her journey toward recovery truly began after she came across a book that explained the condition and its treatment.

Understanding that she was dealing with a recognized illness encouraged her to seek the right support. According to Sana, it took around four years of recovery before she felt she had fully overcome the disorder.

Why Speaking Up Matters

By sharing her experience publicly, Sana hopes to encourage others who may be struggling with eating disorders to seek help without feeling ashamed.

Mental health experts emphasize that conditions like bulimia are treatable, especially when identified early. Professional support, therapy, nutritional guidance, and a strong support system can all play important roles in recovery.

The Bottom Line

Sana Saeed's story is a reminder that eating disorders are serious mental health conditions—not simply lifestyle choices or habits. Her decision to speak openly about her experience highlights the importance of awareness, early diagnosis, and seeking professional help. For anyone facing similar challenges, reaching out to a qualified mental health or healthcare professional can be an important first step toward recovery.

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