Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai actress Samridhii Shulka on importance of men's mental health: ‘They are entitled to emotional expression…’

Samridhii Shulka on men's mental health

Actress Samridhii Shukla, currently starring in Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, discusses men’s mental health in light of International Men’s Day, delivering an impactful message on the significance of recognising men’s mental wellness.

Regarding the topic, Shukla directly shared with TellyChakkar, “Men's mental health is still not discussed sufficiently. Often, men are expected to remain silent and carry on with their tasks despite facing internal struggles.”

She explains that although people readily recognise when a woman is overwhelmed, men are frequently presumed to be “strong enough” to cope with everything without expressing it. She states that this silence prevents men from understanding how to articulate their feelings or ask for assistance.

“Mental health is not tied to gender,” she stresses. "Men are entitled to the same gentleness and secure environment."

Contemplating if men today show vulnerability more freely, she states, “I believe men communicate a bit more than they did in the past, particularly with those they trust. However, many continue to feel uncertain due to the fear of appearing vulnerable."

She claims that society continues to instruct boys to suppress tears and fear, and these antiquated notions persist into their adult lives. "When we respond with kindness when someone shares, it will help him feel more secure," she states.

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Discussing the type of support that men genuinely require, she states, “Men need individuals who hear them out without passing judgment or offering hasty advice.”

She notes that numerous men refrain from being vulnerable even with their families because they believe they need to constantly be the ‘strong one’. She emphasises that therapy for men ought to be normalised rather than seen as something to conceal.

Regarding equality, Samridhii states, “Genuine equality entails acknowledging that every individual experiences emotions. Women advocated for their expression, and now men are entitled to their emotional expression as well.”