Aparna Nancherla: Battling Perfectionism and Embracing Mental Health
I think it's very similar to everyone does not care for me. It's so hard to get to that place and to stay in that place and believe it, because you can do it kind of intellectually, yeah, but to feel it, that's, that's the goal for me is to not only think these things but feel them to my, to my core, and I have experienced that.
What happens when a first-generation Indian-American comedian faces the pressures of perfectionism, low self-esteem, and mental health struggles? In this episode of 'Mental Illness Happy Hour', Aparna Nancherla sits down with host Paul Gilmartin to share her deeply personal journey. From grappling with depression and anxiety to dealing with an eating disorder, Aparna opens up about the challenges she's faced and the lessons she's learned along the way.
Growing up in a strict household, Aparna felt the weight of becoming the 'good child', often finding herself trapped in a cycle of comparison and self-criticism. She candidly discusses how these early experiences shaped her mental health and led to a constant battle with social anxiety and bullying. Despite feeling like she wasn't 'messed up enough' to seek help, Aparna highlights the crucial role of therapy and self-awareness in her path to healing.
Aparna's story is not just about struggles; it's also about resilience and the power of vulnerability. She challenges societal stigmas around mental health, emphasizing the importance of sharing our stories and seeking support. As a creative individual, she reflects on how mental illness has influenced her artistic pursuits and underscores the significance of self-acceptance and self-care in finding hope and healing.
This episode is a heartfelt exploration of mental health that will resonate with anyone facing similar challenges or looking to understand the impact of mental illness on creativity. Aparna's honesty and humor make this conversation both enlightening and comforting, reminding us that it's okay to seek help and embrace our true selves.