Aaryamann Sethi Shares Emotional Journey of Depression and Racism After Football Career Cut Short
In a heartfelt revelation, Aaryamann Sethi, the son of Bollywood actors Archana Puran Singh and Parmeet Sethi, has spoken candidly about his struggle with depression following a devastating leg injury that ended his promising football career in England. During a recent vlog by his mother, Aaryamann detailed the emotional and physical challenges he faced, including racism and mental health battles, after his dreams of playing in the English Premier League were shattered.
Football Dreams Shattered at a Young Age
Aaryamann's journey began with high hopes when he moved to London at just 14 years old to pursue football with Queens Park Rangers. However, his aspirations were abruptly halted when he broke his leg shortly after settling in. "I left home when I was 14 years old. I stayed there for three weeks and just as I settled in, I broke my leg," he recalled. The injury required surgery and crutches, forcing him to return to India for recovery.
Despite the setback, Aaryamann attempted a comeback the following year, but the recovery process proved arduous. "I was not playing properly because I was still recovering from my surgery. To see everyone around me grow faster and stronger in the age when people are supposed to do that, I was going backwards," he admitted, highlighting the frustration of falling behind his peers.
Confronting Racism and Emotional Turmoil
The end of his football career was not a sudden event but a gradual realization that took a toll on his mental health. Aaryamann described how the stress manifested physically, leading to eczema and emotional outbursts. "I used to cry a lot, and I would cry even on the pitch because people would look at me and think how did he come here," he shared, reflecting on the judgment he faced.
He also recounted instances of racism in London, such as when someone mocked him by asking if he arrived on a donkey to train. "I told him, 'Yeah, the donkey has a Mercedes sign. What are you going to do about it?'" he responded, showcasing the confidence instilled by his family despite the adversity.
Battling Depression and Finding Support
As his football dreams faded, Aaryamann fell into a deep depression, experiencing panic attacks, anxiety, and social withdrawal. "I had bouts of depression so much that I would not even come out of my room, and I would stay there all day. London was tough on me," he revealed. He emphasized that his family's support, particularly from his mother Archana, was crucial in his recovery. "Reassurance doesn't help in depression, only spending time with that person does, and you all spend time with me. Mom has been the most supportive," he said.
Overcoming Fear and Embracing a New Path
The pressure to succeed led to a fear of failure, but Aaryamann eventually found solace in music. "I got desperate after a point and was like kuch bhi chalega, kuch bhi kaam kar lunga. That's when I realised that I want to do music and I will be happy if I continue doing that," he explained. Today, he reports significant improvement in his mental health, with reduced anxiety and no panic attacks.
Archana Puran Singh also shared her emotional perspective, recalling advice from Zeenat Aman about the challenges of parenting. The discussion underscores the importance of family support in mental health struggles.
Expert Insights on Recognizing Mental Health Signs
In related advice, an existential psychotherapist highlighted key indicators for parents to watch for in children facing anxiety or withdrawal. "Notice changes in sleep, eating, energy, or mood. If they stop doing things they once enjoyed or seem emotionally flat, it's a sign they may be struggling," the expert advised, stressing the need for a supportive and non-judgmental environment.
This story serves as a poignant reminder of the mental health challenges faced by young athletes and the resilience required to overcome personal and professional setbacks.
