‘Lives we don’t understand are no joke; belittling mental health is not a healthy mindset’: Jewel Mary | WATCH

In response to actress Krishnaprabha’s sarcastic remarks about mental health that have sparked widespread discussion, actress and presenter Jewel Mary has come forward with a powerful criticism against trivialising mental health.

“Lives we don’t understand are no joke. Mental health is no joke. Dismissing it lightly does not reflect a healthy mental state,” she said in a video shared on social media.

October 10 marked World Mental Health Day. Yet, even before the day, Jewel Mary noted, many have been heard belittling other people's mental struggles and distress. She stressed the importance of always remembering: just because there’s no hunger in our own homes, it’s not a joke to say someone else’s family is starving. Likewise, mental health is not a joke. It must not be trivialised.
 

There are those who endure severe mental health challenges. Depression is not limited to the unemployed. The world-renowned Olympian swimmer Michael Phelps has been battling depression for years—not because he was jobless, but because mental health struggles can affect anyone. When the mind loses balance, people exhibit various symptoms and suffer in different ways.

It’s only been a short while since people started openly speaking about these issues. Society is gradually healing from its wounds. Now, mental health is being recognised as an important concern worthy of conversation and fight. Jewel Mary appeals, “Please do not discourage others. Instead, support people’s pain and circumstances with kindness. Try to embrace them with love.” She sincerely hopes that everyone can understand the true meaning of empathy.

Alongside her video, Jewel Mary posted a heartfelt plea to embrace those suffering from mental distress, “Often in films and literature, it’s made a cruel joke. It’s only been recently that society has started questioning this harsh mockery. The number of people laughing and mocking others with phrases like ‘he’s mad’ or ‘she’s crazy’ is slowly decreasing. But in the rush to mock, some minds break down. Depression locks the body in an invisible room, weakening and discarding it. Fear, anxiety, restlessness and overwhelming thoughts make even breathing difficult.

Sudden bursts of happiness… uncontrollable energy… manic decisions. Doubt, paranoia, confusion that defies logic. These are just a few examples of mental health conditions. Many have stepped forward to save those drowning in shame and pain—but not enough. Don’t push them back with your insensitive laughter. Embrace them with empathy.”

Earlier, actor Saniya Iyappan, singer Anju Joseph and others also spoke out, pointing out the harm in Krishnaprabha’s remarks.