Aadesh Chaudhary sheds light on the stigma surrounding men’s mental health, calling for greater emotional honesty and open dialogue.
Drawing from personal and professional experience, he highlights the need to break the silence and normalise vulnerability.
Aadesh Chaudhary, known for his work across television and OTT platforms, is turning his focus to a subject not often discussed—men’s mental health. With roles in shows like Sasural Simar Ka, Diya Aur Baati Hum, and web series like Sabse Bada Rupaiya and Chitta Ve, Aadesh has experienced the highs and lows of the entertainment industry firsthand—and with it, the quiet pressures that many men face.
Men Are Expected to Stay Strong—But We’re Human Too
“Men’s mental health is still an underrated topic—not just in India, but globally,” Aadesh Chaudhary says, adding, “There’s this unspoken expectation that men should always be strong, silent, and in control. Especially in our field—as actors and public figures—there’s a constant pressure to appear emotionally composed, physically fit, and mentally sharp. But the truth is, we’re human too. We face breakdowns, rejection, self-doubt, and personal struggles. The professional environment rarely allows for emotional openness.”
He points out the contrast between what male actors are expected to portray on screen versus how they are expected to behave off-screen. Aadesh Chaudhary says, “On screen, we play emotional roles—we cry, show vulnerability, and express pain. But in real life, if we do the same, people often get uncomfortable. That double standard can be harmful.”
Opening up hasn’t always been easy for Aadesh Chaudhary either. He shares, “I’m trying to be more honest about my emotions now, but it takes time. Most men don’t talk about how they’re really feeling. Among friends, we talk about sports, films, maybe work stress—but rarely about things like anxiety or depression. That silence builds up, and over time, it can take a toll.”
Aadesh Chaudhary believes that change starts with creating safe environments, both professionally and personally. He asserts, “We need to normalise conversations around therapy, anxiety, and burnout—especially in male-dominated industries like ours. We openly talk about physical fitness and diets, but not about mental or emotional well-being. If someone hits the gym five times a week, we applaud them. Going to a therapist should be just as acceptable.”
Media’s Role in Shaping Modern Masculinity
He also points to the influence of media and storytelling. Aadesh Chaudhary suggests, “Cinema and series can shift how people think. We need more stories where men are shown as sensitive, uncertain, and even struggling. That’s real life. Masculinity isn’t about not crying—it’s about having the courage to confront your emotions.”
A Simple Message for Men: Start Small, But Start
His message to men is simple: start small. “Even if you open up to just one trusted friend or family member, that’s a step. And if someone chooses to confide in you, don’t dismiss it or make a joke. Just listen and be present. That kind of support can really matter,” Aadesh Chaudhary concludes.
