Veteran Bollywood actress Seema Pahwa has shared a significant shift in her perspective on mental health and therapy, advocating for it to be as routine as a medical check-up. In a candid interview, Pahwa revealed that she and her actor-husband, Manoj Pahwa, have decided to embark on therapy as they navigate a new chapter in their lives post-60.
From Skepticism to Advocacy: Seema Pahwa's Therapy Journey
Seema Pahwa, known for her powerful performances, admitted that her earlier views on not understanding therapy have evolved. "In fact, I figured out a long time ago that I need therapy, but I didn’t know where to go," she confessed. She emphasized the importance of the therapist being an impartial third party, distinct from family members, who can objectively point out areas of improvement.
Drawing a compelling parallel, Pahwa stated, "I believe there should be a family therapist, just like there’s a family doctor. The family needs a third eye." She strongly encouraged families to consider therapy even in the absence of overt issues, likening it to preventive healthcare through regular medical checkups.
A New Chapter at 60: The Pahwas' Decision to Seek Help
The conversation took a personal turn when Seema was asked if they had begun family therapy. She revealed that while they haven't started yet, they have actively discussed it and plan to. The catalyst for this decision is a major life transition. "Because now, we’ll start a new journey at 60 plus, both personally and professionally. Both our kids have gotten married and moved out. So, now there’s a loneliness between the two of us. I think this is the right time to get a therapist involved," she explained.
Manoj Pahwa, joining the interview, added a touch of humour to the profound discussion. He quipped that with the children gone, they would now need a mediator. "Ab issey pehle koi direct confrontation ho jaye, issey pehle kisi therapist ko beech mei laa ke khada kar. ‘Tu dekh liyo, bhai.’ Usi ke upar daal denge ki dekh bhai ye kya kar raha hai," he said, suggesting a therapist could help them navigate disagreements before they escalate.
Beyond the Personal: Promoting Mental Wellness
The Pahwas' open discussion contributes to the growing conversation in India about destigmatizing mental health care. By publicly normalizing therapy for life's normal transitions, like empty nesting, they are using their platform to promote emotional well-being. Their stance highlights therapy as a tool for growth and understanding, not just crisis management.
This interview was conducted in the context of their latest project, the web series 'Perfect Family'. Directed by Sachin Pathak, the series features an ensemble cast including Neha Dhupia, Gulshan Devaiah, Girija Oak Godbole, Kaveri Seth, Hirva Trivedi, and Ronav Vaswani alongside the Pahwas. The show is currently available for streaming on YouTube.
