You’ve mustered the courage to say, “I’m seeing a therapist.”
Then comes the dreaded response:
“Log kya kahenge?” (What will people say?)
“Just do yoga!”
“We never had depression in our time.”
Talking about mental health in Indian families can feel like walking through a minefield of misunderstanding, shame, and dismissal. But silence hurts more. Here’s how to navigate this conversation with grace—and actually be heard.
Why It’s So Hard (Especially in Indian Families)
- Stigma = Family “Reputation”: Mental health issues are often seen as a “family flaw.”
- Generational Gap: Older relatives may view therapy as “Western nonsense” or spiritual failure.
- Minimization: “You’re overreacting—just get married and you’ll be fine!”
5 Culturally-Smart Strategies
1. Choose Your Moment (and Metaphor)
Avoid: Ambushing them during family events.
Try:
- During chai time: “Papa, remember how Dadi had ‘weak nerves’? I’ve been feeling similar. Doctors call it anxiety now.”
- Use physical analogies: “Just like diabetes needs insulin, my brain needs therapy to balance chemicals.”
2. Lead with Symptoms, Not Labels
Instead of “I have depression,” say:
- “I’ve been having trouble sleeping/eating for months.”
- “My body feels heavy all the time, and I cry without reason.”
3. Leverage “Respected” Sources
- Doctor’s note: “My physician recommended therapy for my headaches/stomach issues.”
- Religious figures: “Guruji said caring for the mind is part of spiritual growth.”
- Celebrities: “Deepika Padukone sees a therapist too.”
4. Address the “Log Kya Kahenge?” Fear
- “What if relatives talk? Let them. Our peace matters more.”
- “Keeping it hidden hurts us more than their gossip.”
5. Offer Simple “Homework”
- *“Watch this 5-minute video about anxiety—then let’s chat?”* (Send a Hindi/regional language resource).
- “Can we visit the therapist together once? No pressure to speak.”
Scripts for Common Pushbacks
| Pushback | Response |
|---|---|
| “Just pray more!” | “I do. Therapy helps me focus my prayers better.” |
| “It’s all in your head!” | “Yes—that’s why a brain expert can help.” |
| “We didn’t need this!” | “You suffered silently so I wouldn’t have to.” |
Final Thought: You’re Breaking Chains
Your courage to speak up heals not just you—but future generations. Every awkward conversation chips away at stigma.
Need backup? Reach out to us at +91-9310885868 – we’re here for you.
What’s the funniest or most frustrating response you got from family? Share below—we’ve all been there!
