Comedian Romesh Ranganathan, best known for his sharp wit and observational humor, has opened up about his ongoing battle with mental health. Speaking on BBC Radio 4’s Desert Island Discs, the 47-year-old reflected on dark periods in his life, including struggles with suicidal thoughts, and how he now finds himself in one of the best mental spaces he’s ever been.
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Mental Health Challenges and Personal Strategies
Ranganathan revealed that he has experienced recurring bouts of mental health challenges throughout his life. “It’s half the battle to identify when your mental health is declining,” he said. Once recognized, he turns to practices such as exercise, reading, and breathing techniques to stabilize and re-center himself.
However, he noted how difficult it can be to maintain these positive habits consistently. “You do something that works for you—like running or meditation—and then, for some reason, you stop. Eventually, you feel worse again,” he explained, capturing a cycle that resonates with many.
Addressing Mental Health Publicly with Care
The comedian spoke cautiously about sharing his mental health experiences, aware of how these conversations can impact others. “You want to be careful because it can be triggering for people,” he said. Yet, Ranganathan strongly believes in the importance of normalizing conversations around mental health, stressing that “it’s common, and it’s okay to talk about it.”
His goal, he explained, is to openly share his journey without glamorizing or minimizing the seriousness of mental illness.
Early Life Struggles and Family Influence
Ranganathan also discussed how his family background shaped his resilience and mental health perspective. Born to Sri Lankan immigrant parents, he admired his mother’s courage for raising children in a new country with few social connections. “My mother is one of my heroes,” he said.
His youth was marked by financial hardship, including the imprisonment of his father for fraud during his teenage years—an event that had a significant emotional impact, particularly during his A-level examinations.
From Setbacks to Achievements: Finding Strength in Purpose
Despite these early struggles, Ranganathan has built a successful career in comedy and broadcasting. More recently, he completed the London Marathon, a feat he says was both a physical and emotional triumph. These accomplishments are a testament to his ongoing journey of self-care and purpose.
Using His Platform for Mental Health Advocacy
Today, Ranganathan uses his public platform to promote mental health awareness, encouraging others to speak up and seek help. His honesty is helping to break the stigma and inspire others to take mental wellness seriously.
Conclusion: A Story of Resilience and Hope
Romesh Ranganathan’s journey is a powerful reminder that mental health is not a destination, but a lifelong process of awareness, action, and compassion. By speaking out about his darkest moments and the tools that help him thrive, he not only finds healing but also inspires others to seek light in their own journeys.
For those facing similar struggles, help is available, and you are not alone. Resources like the BBC Action Line and mental health organizations worldwide offer support for those in need.
