US Surgeon General talks with Bollywood star about mental health

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Surgeon General of the United States, Dr. Vivek Murthy, in a conversation with Bollywood star Aamir Khan and his entrepreneur daughter and Founder or Agatsu Foundation, Ira Khan explored mental health and the transformative impact of therapy in a recent Mental Health Podcast by Netflix India.

The podcast hoped to stir more open conversations on mental well-being and normalizing seeking help. Rife with personal anecdotes, individual experiences with mental health challenges, and perspectives on mental wellness, the podcast took a rounded approach to destigmatize mental illness, especially in India.

Dr. Murthy started off by discussing changes in the perception of mental health over the years. When asked about the culture of mental health when he was growing up, Khan said “When I was growing up, very little was understood about it. There was a lot of shame attached to it, like as you pointed out. If there was someone who had a, you know, mental health problem in the family, it was usually hidden. As opposed to, you know, seeking help and trying to help. It was spoken quite loosely.”

He added that while social awareness on the matter has improved, communicating about anything in India takes time given its variety of languages.

Ira Khan, who has been vocal about her struggles with depression, detailed how she recognized the signs of her mental health challenges. “…living was an effort…When I stopped eating because it was too much effort to eat, then I was like, okay, maybe you should tell somebody,” she revealed. Ira emphasized the importance of reaching out for help in different ways and at different times, and seeking therapy.

Aamir Khan, reflecting on how as a father he processed Ira’s mental health challenges, expressed his own struggles in supporting Ira through her journey. “…I didn’t know how to deal with it. I didn’t know how to help.” He admitted that his focus on his career often overshadowed his awareness of his children’s fears and desires. This realization led him to make significant changes, including seeking therapy himself and even attending joint therapy sessions with Ira to strengthen their relationship.

While addressing a broader issue affecting young people globally, Ira spoke about the impact of loneliness and social media. “Loneliness is huge,” she noted.

“I think social media is a big problem with that because what you talked about was also being themselves without being judged, which is a big part of what makes you feel connected or not. Being lonely or feeling connected is a subjective experience…” she added noting “But because of social media, you’re trying to be cool, portray yourself in a certain way. You’re not putting your true self out there. So, no one is seeing your true self. Then you’re not connecting with anybody.”

She went on emphasize the need for vulnerability and honesty in fostering meaningful relationships.

Dr. Murthy highlighted that more than 50 per cent of young people in the US struggle with loneliness and about a third of adults. Other countries are trailing behind with similar numbers.

“When people are socially disconnected from each other, that increases their risk of depression and anxiety and suicide. But it also increases their risk of heart disease and dementia and premature death. So, the bottom line is a lot of people are experiencing this,” he said.

The discussion also touched on the importance of daily practices for mental well-being. Both Aamir and Ira highlighted the benefits of adequate sleep, physical activity, and intentional decision-making. “Find your balance,” Ira advised, encouraging people to track their habits and listen to their bodies to understand what truly works for their mental and physical health.

The father-daughter duo shared heartfelt advice for parents and young people navigating mental health challenges. Aamir emphasized the importance of parents acting swiftly when they notice their child struggling, urging them to seek professional help without hesitation or shame. He highlighted that the child’s well-being should always come first, and reaching out to experts or trusted individuals is a vital step.

Ira added that parents should set aside feelings of fear, guilt, or shame, which can hinder their ability to support their child effectively. Addressing young people, Aamir advised them to openly communicate with their parents about any difficulties they face but also not to judge them if they cannot provide adequate support.

Dr. Murthy concluded the podcast, calling it a “beautiful experience.”

(Used under special arrangement with SAH)