Anupam Mittal: A Shark Tank Investor Who Overcame Anxiety Disorder & Panic Attacks

Mental health should be taken as seriously as physical health - Anupam Mittal

What happened To Anupam Mittal?

Anupam Mittal, the founder and CEO of Shaadi[dot]com and a prominent figure on Shark Tank India, has not only made a mark in the business world but has also bravely shared his struggles with mental health. Specifically, he has spoken about his experiences with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and panic attacks. 

This article will delve into Anupam Mittal's journey through these mental health challenges, the factors that contributed to his anxiety, and how he fought to reclaim his well-being.

Background of Anupam Mittal

Anupam Mittal, born on 23rd December 1981 in Mumbai, India, graduated from the University of California, Berkeley, and earned an Economics degree. According to Wikipedia Mittal also acted and produced in the Bollywood movies 99 and Flavors, directed by his close friends.

He founded Shaadi[dot]com in 1996, which emerged as one of the first matrimonial websites in India. Under his stewardship, Shaadi[dot]com has led in matchmaking, joining millions worldwide in singles on this platform.

More recently, he has been seen as a judge on the Indian version of Shark Tank, where he invests in promising startups and shares entrepreneurial insights. Though Anupam did well in his professional life, he had severe personal issues related to mental health.

Understanding GAD & Panic Attacks

Definition, Symptoms, and Prevalence

Generalized anxiety disorder is characterized by excessive worry about things going on in life at work or health, as well as social concerns. Affected people cannot cease worrying, manifesting in the following physical symptoms: fatigue, restlessness, poor concentration, irritability, muscle tension, and disturbed sleep. 

A panic attack is an episode of intense fear or discomfort of short duration, peaking within minutes; symptoms include heart palpitations, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea, dizziness, or feelings of impending doom.

According to the World Health Organization, "Anxiety disorders are estimated to affect nearly one in thirteen people in the world today, approximately 264 million people.".

What Caused GAD & Panic Attacks for Anupam Mittal

Anupam Mittal reveals that his significant business pressures keep contributing to his GAD and panic. He said in interviews and podcasts that he first had panic attacks in his twenties when he used to stay in the United States. 

He described stress and anxiety related to work and personal expectations that made him feel overwhelmed.

In an interview with Ranveer Allahbadia’s podcast, he described panic attacks as "the scariest thing" he experienced: "You feel like the earth will eat you whole, the walls will crush you, and you have difficulty breathing. On the outside, you look calm, but inside, there’s a volcano erupting. At that moment, you are prepared to do anything. If someone told you to shoot yourself, you probably would. It’s so scary.". This statement highlights how debilitating these experiences were for him.

Anupam Mittal's Mental Health Struggle

Anupam's journey with mental health has been marked by significant challenges. He has candidly shared his experiences with anxiety and panic attacks during various interviews and public appearances. 

In a podcast episode with Ranveer Allahbadia, he discussed how mental health remains a taboo subject in India despite many people suffering from it.

He emphasized the crucial importance of seeking help: "If you have never experienced a panic attack, I pray to God that you never do". This openness encourages others facing similar issues to seek support.

Courage to Speak Out about GAD & Panic Attacks

When most other cultures consider this subject shrouded with stigma, an individual like Anupam Mittal must talk about his mental health challenges. Through his public and open discussion about his experiences, he has helped annihilate the stigma surrounding this issue. 

He underlined that there is no shame in anxiety or panic attacks; it is essential to face this head-on.

In interviews and podcasts, he urged individuals experiencing anxiety and panic attacks to seek help: "Mental health should be taken as seriously as physical health". His advocacy for mental health awareness is vital in promoting open discussions.

Journey to Recovery - How Anupam Mittal Dealt/Fought with GAD & Panic Attacks

Anupam Mittal's recovery journey involved several strategies aimed at addressing both his physical and mental health.

1. Professional Help: Seeking therapy was crucial for Anupam's recovery; it provided him with tools to manage his emotions better and cope with stressors related to fame.
2. Understanding Triggers: Anupam learned to identify triggers that led to his anxiety and panic attacks. By recognizing these triggers, such as work-related stress, he could take proactive measures to mitigate their impact.
3. Mindfulness Practices: In interviews, Anupam discussed the importance of mindfulness practices such as meditation as part of his coping strategy. These practices helped him cultivate a positive mindset.
4. Lifestyle Changes: Incorporating regular exercise and maintaining a balanced diet were essential components of Anupam's recovery process. Physical well-being significantly contributes to mental health.
5. Support from Family: Throughout his struggles, Anupam received unwavering support from family and friends. He often credits them for helping him navigate challenging times.
6. Engagement in Creative Work: Returning to work allowed Anupam to channel his emotions productively. He often mentioned that focusing on Shaadi.com helped him regain a sense of purpose during challenging times.

Support System which helped Anupam Mittal with GAD & Panic Attacks

Insights into the Support He Received from Family, Friends, and Professionals

Anupam's family was his pillar of support. He talks a lot about how important it is that loved ones understand mental health issues. His friends also played a vital role in providing emotional support during difficult times.

Additionally, professional help played a crucial role in Anupam's recovery; therapy provided him with tools to manage emotions better and cope with stress related to fame. In interviews, he expressed gratitude for having people around who understand mental health issues.

Anupam Mittal's Inspiring Story: Impact on Mental Health Awareness

Anupam Mittal's journey has dramatically helped increase mental health awareness across India. Because he opened up regarding GAD and panic attacks, many of his fans were motivated to confess their struggles concerning their mental health openly. 

He makes people come forward about their problems, not with all sorts of judgments, but with this story.

In light of some recent incidents that formed part of the mental health awareness campaigns post-COVID-19, many celebrities followed in Anupam's footsteps by normalizing public discourse on mental health issues.

Powerful Quotes and Interviews of Anupam Mittal on GAD & Panic Attacks

• Anupam Mittal has shared poignant insights regarding his mental health journey: "A panic attack is the scariest thing I've experienced... you feel like the earth will eat you whole".
• "Mental health should be taken as seriously as physical health".
• "If you have never experienced a panic attack, I pray to God that you never do".

These quotes encapsulate his resilience and perspective on overcoming adversity.

Personal Growth of Anupam Mittal after Getting Mental Health Treatment

After the GAD and panic attacks, Anupam Mittal succeeded personally and professionally. Anupam continued his entrepreneurship journey by leading Shaadi.com and appearing on Shark Tank India, where he shares insights on entrepreneurship.

• Television Appearances: He is a judge on Shark Tank India and uses this platform to invest in new startups and as a podium to spread messages about mental health awareness. Acc. to sources Mittal has been a “Shark” on the SonyLiv reality program Shark Tank India in Seasons 1, 2 and 3. In Season 1, he invested ₹54,000,000 (US$680,000) across 25 businesses, whereas In Season 2, ₹54,000,000(US$650,000) across 25 businesses whereas In March 2024 Season 3, he invested close to ₹80,500,000 (US$960,000) in companies.
• Philanthropy: After recovery, Anupam became more active in initiating efforts related to mental health awareness. His experiences have led him to participate actively in initiatives to help those struggling with similar issues.
• Family Engagement: In personal life, Anupam believes that quality time spent with family is a leading factor concerning emotional well-being. He vows to be there for his family, but this is not an easy promise for him because he has always spoken about some pretty traumatic experiences he had when growing up.

This period was not only about professional rejuvenation but, more importantly, about personal growth. He learned to balance work commitments and family life while advocating for mental health.

Conclusion

The journey of Anupam Mittal through GAD and panic attacks showcases the importance of open and compassionate mention of mental health issues. The willingness to open up about personal fights powerfully resonates, encouraging fellow suffering individuals facing similar challenges to seek help without the attached stigma. These conversations about mental health constitute the most vital step in building a society's strength on mutual understanding and support. Reflecting on Anupam's inspiring story, let us advocate for mental well-being, personally and collectively. Organizations such as Mave Health exist, offering assistance for mental well-being. They are the best people to contact if you need support or more information on mental health services.

Citations

1. ABP Live. (2023). Shaadi.com's Anupam Mittal calls panic attacks the scariest thing that he experienced.
2. YouTube. (2023). Podcast interview discussing mental health.
3. YouTube. (2023). Interview discussing mental health challenges.
4. YouTube. (2023). Interview discussing overcoming anxiety.