Niki Walia has made a mark in showbiz and is winning hearts for almost three decades in the industry. The actress, who has witnessed the entertainment industry change over the years, says mental health should be given equal importance as physical health. To mark World Mental Health Day, Niki spoke out about the stigma of mental health, the pressure of the entertainment industry and why people should never be ashamed to ask for help.
Sharing her thoughts on the subject, the actress said, “The way I see it, mental and physical health are two sides of the same coin. You can’t neglect one without affecting the other. In today’s fast-paced environment, we face high cognitive loads, constant digital connectivity and rapid change. Prioritising mental health is essential.
“Just as we wouldn’t ignore a physical injury, we shouldn’t ignore signs of mental strain. Taking proactive care of our mental health through boundaries, recovery and open communication allows us to bring our best selves to our work and relationships over the long term.”
People are talking more openly about mental health now, but Niki says the stigma hasn’t completely disappeared. People, especially younger generations, are more comfortable talking about therapy, anxiety and burnout. But she still feels a lack of understanding and empathy in many situations.
The actress explained, “People are much more open now, especially among younger generations and online. Talking about therapy, anxiety or burnout is almost normal. The language around mental health has become part of everyday conversation, which has made it easier for people to seek help.
“But the stigma is still very real where it counts. In many workplaces, traditional families and high-pressure environments, admitting that you’re struggling is still quietly viewed as a weakness or a liability. People might talk about stress or self-care, but deeper issues like severe depression, bipolar disorder or addiction still carry heavy judgment.
“We’re great at posting about mental health awareness, but when someone’s symptoms actually inconvenience others, such as needing time off, cancelling plans or struggling with emotional regulation, the empathy often wears thin.”
Working in showbiz comes with public judgment, competition and expectations. But Niki said she doesn’t allow outside pressure to influence her decisions. Instead, she concentrates on choosing projects that she feels a connection to, and that fit her circumstances.
Talking about her approach, she said, “I honestly don’t absorb that kind of external pressure because I operate on a core belief: whatever is meant for you will find you, and there is enough room and work for everyone in this industry. There are plenty of external factors that could affect me, but I actively choose not to let them in.
“The biggest trap people fall into is comparison, and as the saying goes, ‘Comparison is the thief of joy.’ I’ve never bought into the rat race or felt the need to compete with my colleagues. I focus entirely on my own lane, choosing projects based on my personal circumstances, where I am in life and the characters that actually resonate with me.
“Because of that, external industry pressure has never really got to me. If there’s ever any pressure, it’s purely internal. It’s me challenging myself to grow and do better as an actor. It never comes from the outside because, at the end of the day, I don’t look to the outside world for either pressure or validation.”
Niki also encouraged those who are silently struggling with mental health issues to speak out rather than suffer in silence. She stressed that people don’t have to wait until things get bad to ask for help and that asking for help should never be seen as a sign of weakness.
Sharing her message, she said, “I would like to say, please know that you don’t have to deal with this alone. Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness, and you aren’t a burden for struggling. You don’t have to wait until you hit rock bottom to deserve support. Your pain is valid right now. Taking that first step can feel terrifying, but you don’t need a big, dramatic confession. Just start small. Send a quick text to a friend; journal your thoughts or call a helpline if you choose to keep it anonymous.”
“Silence makes you feel completely isolated, but people care much more than your anxiety is letting you believe right now. You don’t have to fix everything today. Just open one small door when you’re ready. Taking care of your mind isn’t a luxury. It’s the foundation for everything else you build in life,” she concluded.
