Deepika Padukone at Davos: I want to tell everyone suffering from depression that you are not alone

[Arunabh.ly__]

 

Deepika Padukone was honoured for her contribution in the field of mental health at the World Economic Forum, organised in Davos. The actress received the Crystal Award as the audience cheered for her.

Deepika gave a powerful speech at the event, opening up on her battle with depression and anxiety. She talked about how her own struggle encouraged her to work towards spreading awareness on mental health. She is the founder of Live Love Laugh foundation that helps people suffering from depression.

She said, "In the time it has taken me to accept this award, the world has lost one more person to suicide. One trillion dollars is the estimated impact of depression and mental illness on the world economy."

She then talked about the first time she experienced anxiety and how, on her mother's insistence, she sought professional help.

"Depression is a common medical illness. It is important to understand that anxiety and depression are like any other illness and are treatable. Acceptance is the first step to recovery. It was the experience with this illness that encouraged me to set up Live Love Laugh," she said.