Kalki Koechlin Opens Up on Postpartum Depression: “I Asked for Help After a Week, I Couldn’t Cope”
Actor Kalki Koechlin has spoken candidly about her experience with postpartum depression, recalling the emotional and physical challenges she faced after the birth of her daughter during the early days of the Covid-19 lockdown.
Kalki welcomed her daughter, Sappho, on February 7, 2020, following a 17-hour water birth. While the experience was significant, it was quickly followed by multiple difficulties, including exhaustion, sleep deprivation, iron deficiency, and the isolation brought on by the nationwide lockdown.
Motherhood during lockdown challenges
In an exclusive conversation with NDTV, Kalki explained that the timing of her daughter’s birth made the early stages of motherhood even more overwhelming.
She shared that the Covid-19 lockdown intensified her struggles, leaving her to navigate new motherhood with limited external support and heightened uncertainty. Despite the challenges, she said she was “lucky” to have some awareness about postpartum depression beforehand, which helped her recognise the symptoms early.
“I couldn’t cope, so I asked for help”
Kalki revealed that within a week of experiencing postpartum depression, she realised she needed professional support.
“With postpartum, I was lucky that I had some idea about it. After about a week, I told my partner I need to see a doctor. I need to ask for help because I can’t cope with this,” she said.
She added that she and her partner sought professional help immediately and worked towards establishing a routine that helped stabilise her mental health during the difficult phase.
Breaking stigma around postpartum depression
The actor emphasised the importance of open conversations around postpartum mental health, noting that many new mothers are unprepared for the emotional impact it can bring.
According to her, many women only realise the severity of postpartum depression after experiencing it firsthand, often leading to feelings of isolation and confusion.
“We have a long way to go. People don’t realise how bad it is until it happens to them,” she said, adding that awareness and medical guidance should begin much earlier.
Pressure on new mothers
Kalki also spoke about the societal pressure placed on women to appear as “perfect mothers,” explaining how this expectation often prevents them from seeking help.
She noted that many mothers feel they must silently endure the experience to prove they are doing well, even when they are struggling emotionally and physically.
“It’s okay to say you can’t handle it and ask for help,” she said, highlighting that basic rest and support can make a significant difference in the early months of motherhood.
Life with daughter Sappho
Kalki’s daughter, Sappho, is now six years old. The actor shared that while it was initially difficult for her child to understand her work-related absences, things have improved as she has grown older.
“Now she knows,” Kalki said with a smile, reflecting on how their understanding has evolved over time.
Continued work and reflections
On the professional front, Kalki Koechlin continues to remain active in films and theatre. Her debut film Dev D is also set for a theatrical re-release on April 24, 2026, marking renewed interest in her early career and acclaimed performances.
With 17 years in the industry, Kalki remains known for her candidness about personal struggles, including mental health, motherhood, and navigating public life—topics she continues to speak about openly to encourage greater awareness and understanding.
