‘Encourages those suffering to cope’: PPP’s Sharmila Faruqi praises ‘Jhoom’ for talking about mental health

Drama serial ‘Jhoom’ has been praised by audiences for its storyline about an older and financially independent woman and her love interest. Eight episodes in, the drama, starring Zara Noor Abbas and Haroon Kadwani, has been praised by for its empowered female characters, the electrifying chemistry between the leads, and for tackling mental health issues in a sensitive manner, especially refusing to depict being admitted in a psychiatric hospital in a negative way.

In the drama, Aryaan (Haroon Kadwani) suffers from anger issues and depression, which stem from his mother abandoning their family. In a recent episode, he is informed that reports were discovered proving he was admitted in a mental rehabilitation center for some time. But instead of denying it, Aryaan candidly speaks about depression, and reminds the authorities that they should never stigmatise those suffering from mental health issues, especially when they work hard to overcome it.

Politician Sharmila Faruqi shared the scene in an Instagram post, highlighting how important it is now more than ever that television shows learn to portray mental health issues in a sensitive and empathic manner:

“Talking openly about mental health can reduce the misconception and stigma and can encourage those suffering from it to cope, seek help and find a support network. It helps communities to be more acceptable towards those who need help. With the right treatment most people recover from depression and anxiety and can lead a normal, productive life. But is the society compassionate about this ? All forgiving ? This scene from the current drama serial “Jhoom” talks about this very important human right.. our mental health. How we feel and think is central to the way we live our lives… Suicide accounts for over 800,000 deaths globally.. Alarming isn’t it? Yes.. support those around you who need help. Every 1 person in 5 experiences a mental health condition. Urgent action is needed to strengthen mental health systems across the globe. Be a part of this.. Thank you to the makers of “Jhoom” for bringing this in the forefront. Very aptly portrayed by @haroonkadwani 👍🏽”

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A post shared by Sharmila Saheba Faruqui s.i (@sharmilafaruqui)

We are in awe of how Pakistani dramas are branching out from the typical saas-bahu narratives, and are daring to tackle topics like these and executing them brilliantly!