Actress Saheefa Jabbar Khattak on battle with depression: ‘Struggle was a turning point’

Saheefa Jabbar, television actor and model, has starred in many popular Pakistani dramas. She’s also a successful model, endorsing several top clothing brands and collaborating with outstanding Pakistani fashion designers. Recently, Saheefa shared her experience of dealing with depression on Ahmed Ali Butt’s podcast. “I’ve been experiencing depression since 2013, but I didn’t realize it at first. I thought I was just reacting to unfavorable situations. Eventually, I noticed that my panic attacks persisted, even though I had a good life with loving parents, money, and a kind husband. That’s when I realized I was dealing with depression and severe anxiety.”

She also said, “I didn’t have much exposure and knowledge about depression because I belong to a middle-class family where most people just had their normal graduation degrees and no awareness of things like mental health,” Saheefa said, “A therapist should be concerned about the health of his/her patients.”

Saheefa revealed that despite receiving amazing support from her husband and brother, who take care of her, she still struggles with anxiety and depression, making healing a challenging journey for her. Reflecting on her difficult period with depression during her flight to Canada, Saheefa said, “I informed the flight crew about my condition as I had already consumed thirty pills, anticipating severe panic attacks. I was regularly taking antidepressants every few hours, and I have no recollection of my meeting with my husband. I recall being unstable for days, during which I isolated myself, and my husband provided constant care. My husband’s kindness has been instrumental in keeping me alive. His unwavering support in both Canada and Pakistan has been my lifeline.”

Saheefa added, “I’ll never do an item song. I won’t work with Khalil Ur Rehman Qamar. He might behave badly.”