Public Revelation on Instagram
Karachi — Pakistani actress Alizeh Shah has revealed that she is battling mental illness following bitter experiences in the entertainment industry. Speaking candidly on Instagram, the 24-year-old star said she has been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a condition triggered by prolonged stress and traumatic events.
In her post, Alizeh shared that the pressures and hostile environment of show business left her emotionally shattered. She admitted the experiences caused her to develop feelings of self-hatred and worthlessness.
“Not for Work, But to Share My Pain”
The actress clarified that her decision to speak out was not motivated by professional ambitions but by a desire to share her pain. “What I faced in this industry pushed me to the edge. I don’t want more projects; I just want people to know the reality,” she wrote.
According to her, the toxic work culture included enduring up to 12 hours a day on set, often under what she described as “demeaning and disrespectful behavior.” She stressed that the constant mistreatment took a toll on her mental health.
Her only demand, she added, was to be left alone so that she could rebuild her life and recover in peace.
Feud With Actress Minsa Malik
Alizeh Shah’s struggles have been compounded by public disputes within the industry. Recently, her clash with fellow actress Minsa Malik made headlines. Malik allegedly slapped Shah during a confrontation on set, prompting Alizeh to file a defamation case.
The conflict intensified after both actresses exchanged accusations through social media and interviews, creating a highly publicized feud. Industry insiders note that such disputes highlight the growing challenges faced by young performers navigating Pakistan’s showbiz environment.
Understanding PTSD
Mental health experts explain that post-traumatic stress disorder is a psychological condition that can develop after a person experiences or witnesses deeply distressing events. Symptoms may include flashbacks, anxiety, avoidance behavior, sleep disturbances, and emotional numbness.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around one in 13 people globally is affected by PTSD at some point in their lives. In Pakistan, reliable nationwide statistics remain limited due to stigma surrounding mental health, but psychiatrists have warned that cases are increasing, particularly among young people in high-pressure environments.
Alizeh’s revelations shed light on how harsh working conditions in entertainment can exacerbate such disorders. Experts often stress that industries dependent on public image and long working hours need greater safeguards to protect mental health.
Broader Debate on Showbiz and Mental Health
The actress’s disclosure has sparked renewed debate about the pressures faced by Pakistani celebrities. While show business offers fame and fortune, insiders acknowledge it also carries an undercurrent of exploitation, competition, and relentless scrutiny.
Actors often work under demanding schedules, facing constant criticism both on and off screen. Social media amplifies this stress, exposing performers to trolling and cyberbullying. Several Pakistani artists in recent years have spoken about burnout, depression, and harassment.
Globally, the issue is gaining recognition. In Bollywood and Hollywood, high-profile actors have also opened up about struggles with anxiety, depression, and PTSD, encouraging discussions about better workplace practices.
Calls for Change
Alizeh Shah’s statement adds urgency to calls for reform within Pakistan’s entertainment sector. Advocacy groups have argued that production houses and broadcasters should introduce clear policies against workplace harassment, ensure fair working hours, and provide mental health support services.
For young stars like Alizeh, who rose to fame quickly through television dramas and music videos, the lack of institutional support has left them vulnerable. Her experience underscores how glamour often hides a harsher reality behind the scenes.
Looking Ahead
For now, Alizeh Shah says she wants time away from the spotlight to focus on healing. Her message resonates with a wider audience, many of whom praised her for speaking openly about mental illness, a subject often stigmatized in Pakistan.
Whether her appeal leads to meaningful change in industry practices remains uncertain. However, her testimony highlights a crucial issue: mental health challenges in creative industries are real, and they deserve serious attention.
