In a society where new mothers are often expected to radiate joy and perfection, actor Sarwat Gilani is courageously breaking the silence around postpartum depression — a topic rarely discussed openly in South Asian households.
The acclaimed Pakistani actress, known for her roles in Churails and Joyland, has recently used her platform to encourage mothers struggling with postpartum depression to seek professional help. Her words have not only resonated with mothers but have also inspired a larger conversation about mental health, stigma, and emotional well-being.
Breaking the Silence Around a Hidden Struggle
In a recent interview and a heartfelt Instagram post, Sarwat Gilani revealed the emotional and mental challenges she faced after becoming a mother. Instead of glamorizing motherhood — as celebrity culture often does — she chose honesty.
> “Motherhood is beautiful, but it can also be overwhelming,” she wrote. “There are moments when you don’t feel like yourself, when guilt, exhaustion, and sadness take over — and that’s okay. What’s not okay is staying silent about it.”
Her openness about postpartum depression (PPD) has struck a deep chord. In a culture where women are often told to “stay strong” or “just be grateful,” her message validates the real, often painful experiences that mothers endure behind closed doors.
Understanding Postpartum Depression
Postpartum depression affects millions of women worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 1 in 7 new mothers experiences symptoms of depression after childbirth — from mood swings and fatigue to anxiety and hopelessness.
However, in South Asian societies, PPD is often misunderstood or dismissed. Many women hesitate to seek help out of fear of judgment or being labeled as “weak.”
Sarwat Gilani’s message challenges this stigma. She emphasizes that postpartum depression is not a sign of failure, but a medical condition that requires empathy and treatment.
> “Asking for help doesn’t make you a bad mother,” she said in her video message. “It makes you a brave one. Your mental health matters as much as your baby’s.”
A Voice of Strength and Compassion
Gilani’s advocacy carries special weight because she is not just a public figure — she is a mother who has lived through the challenges she describes. Known for her grace and outspokenness, she has consistently used her influence to highlight women’s rights, mental health, and family support.
Her work in Churails — a web series that explored women’s empowerment and rebellion against patriarchy — already established her as a voice for modern womanhood. Now, her openness about maternal mental health is helping normalize vulnerability, especially among public figures.
Fans and fellow mothers have flooded her posts with gratitude, sharing their own experiences and relief that a celebrity is finally talking about what many endure silently.
The Importance of Seeking Help
Mental health experts have praised Gilani’s efforts, calling them vital in raising awareness in regions where professional counseling is still seen as taboo.
Dr. Ayesha Khan, a Karachi-based psychiatrist, explained,
> “Many women think postpartum depression will go away on its own. But without support, it can worsen. Early diagnosis and therapy can make a world of difference — not just for the mother, but for her child and family.”
Gilani echoed this sentiment, urging families to support new mothers instead of judging them. She emphasized that partners, parents, and friends play a key role in recovery — by listening, helping with childcare, and encouraging therapy.
> “When a mother heals, the whole family heals,” she said.
The Ripple Effect of Her Message
Sarwat Gilani’s words have gone beyond celebrity circles. Mental health organizations in Pakistan and India have shared her posts, using her message to promote awareness campaigns and helplines for new mothers.
By combining her platform with purpose, Gilani is part of a new generation of South Asian celebrities redefining what it means to be a role model — one who champions emotional honesty, not perfection.
Her courage also reflects a broader change in how society views mental health. The younger generation is more willing to talk about depression, anxiety, and therapy — and Gilani’s advocacy bridges the gap between awareness and action.
A New Definition of Strength
Sarwat Gilani’s message is ultimately one of hope. She reminds women that strength doesn’t mean silence. It means recognizing pain, talking about it, and taking steps toward healing.
In her words:
> “You don’t have to go through this alone. Reach out, talk to your doctor, your family, or a friend. Asking for help is the first step toward becoming the mother your child truly needs — a happy, healthy one.”
Her story serves as a reminder that even the brightest stars sometimes face darkness — and that speaking up about it can light the way for others.