In a recent podcast appearance on Inside of You with Michael Rosenbaum, actor and comedian Kumail Nanjiani opened up about his long-standing struggle with anxiety. The 45-year-old shared how his career in the entertainment industry had taken a toll on his mental well-being, leading him to seek professional help.
For Nanjiani, his anxiety initially surfaced during his early days of stand-up comedy. The anticipation of going on stage would trigger racing heartbeats and a surge of nerves. Over time, he began associating these physical sensations with work, and it eventually started affecting his performance and personal life.
Recognizing that the anxiety had become overwhelming, Nanjiani made the decision to find a therapist. He acknowledged the importance of letting go and discovered that when he was relaxed, he excelled in his work, relationships, and personal endeavors. Nanjiani now engages in daily meditation and weekly therapy sessions to manage his mental health.
However, the actor emphasized that anxiety is an ongoing battle that requires continuous effort. He acknowledged that even with the coping mechanisms he has developed, anxiety can resurface unexpectedly. Reflecting on his own journey, he stressed the importance of recognizing, understanding, and dealing with anxiety when it arises.
Nanjiani also shared a recent struggle related to negative reviews of his 2021 Marvel film, Eternals. He admitted that he was greatly affected by the critical reception, reading every review and obsessing over the opinions of others. This added pressure and the trauma of experiencing unfavorable reviews took a toll on his mental well-being. Recognizing the need for change, he sought counseling to address these issues and to shift his perspective on his work.
The actor realized that he couldn't base his self-worth or happiness solely on external validation. Instead, he focused on what he could control: his own experience, his interactions with those around him, and the lessons he could learn from his work. Nanjiani acknowledged that he couldn't dictate how others perceived his work, but he could control his own approach and mindset towards it.
Nanjiani's candid conversation serves as a reminder that mental health struggles can affect anyone, regardless of their success or achievements. Seeking therapy, exploring coping mechanisms like meditation, and actively managing anxiety are important steps towards maintaining and improving mental well-being.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, remember that help is available. Texting 'STRENGTH' to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741 will connect you to a certified crisis counselor who can provide support and guidance. It's essential to prioritize mental health and seek assistance when needed.
