In a candid discussion during the latest episode of 'Pariksha Pe Charcha,' Bollywood actress Deepika Padukone opened up about her battle with depression and highlighted the pivotal role her mother, Ujjala Padukone , played in her journey toward recovery.

Deepika recounted that in early 2014, despite being at a professional high, she began experiencing feelings of emptiness and lack of purpose. These feelings persisted for weeks and months, leading to a significant emotional struggle. She described waking up feeling directionless and unable to find joy or meaning in life.

The turning point came during a family visit. As her parents were preparing to leave, Deepika suddenly broke down in tears. Observing this, her mother sensed that something was amiss. Deepika recalled, "My mother realized for the first time that something was different. My cry was different. It wasn’t the usual boyfriend issue or stress at work." Ujjala Padukone's intuition and understanding led her to encourage Deepika to seek professional help, a step that proved crucial in her path to recovery.

Reflecting on her experience, she emphasized the importance of expressing one's feelings and seeking support when dealing with mental health challenges. The actress noted that depression, anxiety, and stress can affect anyone, regardless of their circumstances, and that it's essential to communicate rather than suppress these feelings. "It is important to express, and not suppress. It makes a whole lot of difference," she stated.

The actress also shared insights into her ongoing commitment to mental well-being. She highlighted the significance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including prioritizing sleep, nutrition, hydration, exercise, and mindfulness. These practices, she believes, are vital not only for recovery but also for sustaining mental health.