In a candid interview with Bollywood Bubble, actor Shama Sikander shared deeply personal and traumatic experiences from her life, including a suicide attempt. Sikander, known for her role in the television show Yeh Meri Life Hai, discussed her struggles with severe depression and bipolar disorder, and how her family intervened to save her life.
Reflecting on her mental health journey, Sikander revealed the extent of her emotional and psychological challenges. “Fifteen years ago, I was in a very bad state. I had severe depression and bipolar disorder,” she explained, adding that she later learned her grandmother may have suffered from the same condition. Sikander noted that her grandmother’s erratic behavior was often misunderstood as spiritual possession, a stigma she herself faced but was able to rationalize due to her understanding of mental health.
During the interview, Sikander detailed how her battle with depression led her to quit the entertainment industry. “That was when I gave up on my career and left the industry,” she shared.
When asked if she had ever contemplated suicide, Sikander admitted, “Of course. I tried to commit suicide, and I was saved by my family.” She recounted the moment vividly, explaining how she consumed a large number of sleeping pills in an attempt to end her life. “I was tired and could not do this anymore. I wanted to come back as somebody else,” she said.
Sikander’s brother became suspicious after receiving an unusual message from her and alerted their mother. Despite their efforts, she was initially unresponsive. “Six people together were not able to pick me up,” she recalled, describing her family’s frantic attempts to revive her.
Her family rushed her to the nearest hospital, which initially refused to admit her due to the nature of the case. However, a friend intervened and persuaded the hospital staff to treat her. After hours of medical treatment, Sikander was revived.
Sikander reflected on the difficult period that followed, describing it as “very, very hard.” She recalled spending days confined to her room, feeling “empty” and crying constantly.
The actor’s testimony serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health awareness. Suicide prevention helplines in India include Sumaitri (011-23389090) and Sneha Foundation (044-24640050).