What Babil Khan’s Emotional Post Reveals : An Expert Insight On Public Emotional Vulnerability And Anxiety

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When Babil Khan opened up on Instagram about his struggles with emotional pressure in the Bollywood spotlight, his honesty sparked an outpouring of empathy and a much-needed conversation. With support from peers like Ananya Panday and Siddhant Chaturvedi, his moment of vulnerability resonated far beyond celebrity circles. To better understand what moments like this reveal about mental health, emotional expression, and anxiety, Boldsky turned to psychologist and family therapist Arpana Tyagi of Blooming Mind Wellness Centre.

Photo Credit: https://www.instagram.com/babil.i.k/

The Power Of Kindness Over Judgment

Emotional vulnerability in the public eye can make people uncomfortable, but Arpana Tyagi highlights that compassion should be the first response.

"When someone like Babil Khan shows their emotions in public, the least we can do is be kind. Honestly, we've all had moments where life just gets too much. It takes guts to open up, especially in front of so many people. Instead of laughing or judging, we should try to understand that he might be really hurting. Crying or breaking down doesn't mean someone is weak, it just means they're human."

Anxiety Under the Spotlight

Anxiety is tough enough in private but for public figures, it becomes even more overwhelming. The pressure to keep a composed image only intensifies the struggle.

"Having an anxiety attack in a high-pressure or public place like the film industry can feel a lot worse for the person going through it. Imagine already feeling scared, shaky, or like you can't breathe, and on top of that, you're in front of cameras, lights, or crowds. There's no privacy to calm down, and you're also worried about what people will think or say. In a place like the film world, where everyone expects you to look perfect and be strong all the time, it can be really hard to show you're struggling. People often try to hide it, which only makes the anxiety worse. And if you're a public figure, the fear that the moment might go viral or be misunderstood adds a lot more stress."

The Ongoing Stigma Of Breaking Down

Even in 2025, emotional honesty is sometimes treated with suspicion or shame especially when men show it.

"We live in a world that often tells us to 'stay strong' or 'keep it together,' and when someone like Babil shows the opposite, it makes people uneasy. Instead of sitting with that discomfort or trying to understand it, many jump to judging or labeling because it feels easier. For men especially, the stigma is worse. They're still expected to be tough, not show pain, not cry."

The High Cost Of Misunderstanding Emotional Pain

Public misinterpretation of mental health episodes can do lasting damage to a person's well-being and self-worth.

"If people misunderstand what's happening, thinking it's just drama or attention-seeking, it can cause that person to feel even more isolated, misunderstood, and ashamed. They might then try to hide their feelings or push through their anxiety without seeking the help they need, which can make things worse in the long run. In the public eye, this misinterpretation can also lead to negative media coverage, online mockery, or backlash, which increases stress and can lead to mental health issues like depression. Moreover, when anxiety is misread, it can reinforce harmful stereotypes about vulnerability, especially for men, who are often expected to be 'tough' and in control."

Social Media : A Double-Edged Sword

Social platforms can either amplify awareness or intensify harm, depending on how people respond.

"Social media can both help reduce stigma and harm the individual, depending on how people respond to the situation. On one hand, when a public figure opens up about something like mental health, it can spark important conversations and help others feel less alone. It shows that even celebrities deal with real struggles, which can help break the stigma and make it easier for others to talk about their own issues. However, social media can also backfire. People tend to quickly judge or criticize what they don't fully understand."

What If You See Yourself In Babil's Emotions?

For those who feel a personal connection to Babil's post, Arpana offers simple but crucial first steps.

"The first thing to do is recognize that their feelings are real and valid. It's okay to feel overwhelmed, and acknowledging that is a good first step. After that, reaching out to someone they trust, like a friend, family member, or even a counselor, can really help. Talking it out makes a big difference. Sometimes, though, we don't even know exactly what we're going through, and that's where professional help comes in. Speaking to a therapist or counselor can help make sense of the emotions, give you tools to cope, and provide a safe space to figure things out. It's important to take care of yourself, and getting help from a professional doesn't mean you're weak, it's a strong step toward feeling better and understanding yourself more."

Anxiety Attacks vs. Panic Attacks

Understanding the difference between anxiety and panic can help people seek the right kind of support.

"An anxiety attack usually happens gradually, triggered by stress or worrying about something, like a tough situation or upcoming event. The feelings build up over time and can include things like racing thoughts, restlessness, or just feeling overwhelmed. It can last for a longer period, sometimes hours. A panic attack, however, comes on suddenly and feels much more intense. It can hit out of nowhere, causing physical symptoms like a fast heartbeat, shortness of breath, dizziness, and a strong feeling of fear, even though there's no real danger. Panic attacks typically peak in just a few minutes and can feel like you're losing control."

What Triggers Anxiety In Today's Youth

Arpana outlines the social and emotional burdens young adults face daily.

"The most common triggers for anxiety attacks in young adults today are things like stress from school or work, social pressure, uncertainty about the future, and relationship issues. With social media being such a big part of life, comparison to others and the pressure to always be 'on' can also create a lot of stress and anxiety. In many cases, young adults feel overwhelmed by trying to meet expectations from family, friends, or society, which can make anxiety worse. And yes, anxiety attacks can sometimes happen without any clear reason, it could be related to stress that builds up over time or even physical factors like changes in sleep, diet, or hormones."

Recognizing The Signs Of An Anxiety Attack

Being aware of the symptoms both physical and emotional is key to getting help early.

Physical Symptoms: "Racing heartbeat, shortness of breath, dizziness or light headedness, tightness in the chest, sweating, shaking or trembling, nausea or stomach discomfort."

Emotional Symptoms: "Intense feelings of fear or panic, sense of losing control, feeling overwhelmed or helpless, thoughts of impending doom or disaster, nervousness or anxiety about uncertain things, a feeling of being trapped or unable to escape."

What You Can Do In The Moment

When panic strikes, grounding and breathing exercises can offer immediate relief.

"You can try a few simple things: Deep breathing (breathe in slowly for four seconds, hold for four, then exhale for four), grounding using the 5-4-3-2-1 method, finding a quiet space, positive self-talk, and progressive muscle relaxation - tensing and releasing muscle groups to relax your body."

Photo Credit: Pexels

Do Grounding And Breathing Actually Work?

Arpana confirms these aren't just feel-good tips, they're evidence-based.

"Yes, grounding techniques and breathing exercises are effective during an anxiety attack. Breathing exercises help calm the body by slowing the heart rate and easing tension. Grounding techniques, such as the 5-4-3-2-1 method, help distract your mind and bring focus back to the present moment. In real-world situations, combining deep breathing with grounding techniques works best to reduce the intensity of the attack and regain control."

Why Routine Matters More Than You Think

Mental wellness thrives on stability, and routines offer that structure.

"Routine is very important in managing anxiety over the long term. Consistent sleep, diet, and physical activity all play a big role in how we feel emotionally and physically. Getting enough sleep helps regulate mood and keeps stress levels in check, while a balanced diet can affect energy levels and overall mental clarity. Regular physical activity, like exercise, releases endorphins, which are natural mood boosters that reduce stress and anxiety. When we stick to a routine that includes these healthy habits, it helps create stability and balance in the body and mind."

Toxic Expectations Around Emotional Control

Cultural pressure to stay "tough" often silences people struggling inside.

"Societal expectations around 'toughness' or emotional control can make it harder for people to deal with anxiety attacks. Many cultures value being strong, stoic, or in control of emotions, which can lead people to hide or suppress their feelings instead of addressing them. This pressure to be tough can cause shame or embarrassment when someone experiences an anxiety attack."

Is Social Media Fueling Anxiety Or Just Revealing It?

It's both, Arpana says, contributing to the problem while also highlighting it.

"Social media is likely contributing to rising anxiety levels among youth, but it's also making existing problems more visible... The constant pressure to compare oneself to others, the fear of missing out (FOMO), and the need to present a perfect image online can increase stress and anxiety."

When It's Time To Seek Help

Recognizing when anxiety is more than just a passing phase is vital.

"One should seek professional help for anxiety when it starts interfering with their daily life or when self-help strategies and coping methods aren't enough. Signs to watch for include physical symptoms like :

• Chest pain,
• dizziness
• Trouble breathing
• Difficulty focusing
• Avoiding social situations
• Or feeling overwhelmed by simple tasks."

Treatments That Work

Therapy, mindfulness, and sometimes medication offer long-term relief.

"The most effective treatments for anxiety include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), medication, and mindfulness techniques. CBT helps by identifying and changing negative thought patterns, while medication can help with chemical imbalances in the brain. The right treatment depends on the individual."

Supporting Someone In Denial

Gentle encouragement can be more powerful than pressure.

"It's important to approach them with understanding and patience. Being a good listener and letting them know you care without pushing too hard is key. Offering small steps like learning simple coping skills or keeping track of their feelings can help them feel more comfortable."

Can Anxiety Ever Truly Go Away?

While not always curable, it's absolutely manageable.

"Anxiety may not always be completely 'cured,' but it can be managed effectively over time. With therapy, self-care, and support, people can learn to reduce the intensity and frequency of anxiety attacks. The key is ongoing management, which helps improve quality of life."

Creativity As A Healing Force

Art and expression have real therapeutic value.

"Creative outlets like art, music, and journaling can play a powerful role in healing and coping with anxiety. These activities allow people to express emotions that might be hard to put into words."

To conclude, Babil Khan's emotional honesty has opened a crucial dialogue about the realities of mental health, especially in high-pressure, image-driven environments like the entertainment industry. Through the insights of psychologist Arpana Tyagi, we are reminded that vulnerability is not weakness but courage, and that anxiety is not a personal failure but a manageable condition.

Photo Credit: https://www.instagram.com/babil.i.k/

As a society, we have a responsibility to replace judgment with empathy, silence with support, and stigma with understanding. Whether it's through professional therapy, grounding techniques, supportive routines, or creative expression, the tools to heal and manage anxiety are real and accessible. But most importantly, people need to feel safe enough to reach for them.

Moments like Babil's are not signs of fragility, they are reminders of our shared humanity. If we respond with kindness, we don't just help the person in pain, we create a healthier, more compassionate world for us all.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.