Radhika Apte, the acclaimed actress, has recently shared her experiences and insights into the emotional rollercoaster of motherhood. Having welcomed her first child, a daughter, with her husband Benedict Taylor in December 2023, Apte has been candid about the highs and lows of this transformative journey.

In a recent interview, Apte revealed that she had mentally prepared herself for the possibility of postpartum depression. She emphasized the importance of acknowledging and preparing for the emotional challenges that can arise after childbirth. "I was very prepared for postpartum, actually," Apte stated, highlighting her proactive approach to maternal mental health. She also ensured that her support system, including friends and family, were well-informed and ready to provide assistance if needed. "And I had also made sure that my friends and family were aware that if I went into postpartum depression, they needed to support me," she added.

To her surprise, Apte shared that she "was just purely elated" after giving birth and thankfully did not experience severe depression. However, she openly acknowledged the significant emotional toll that caring for a newborn can take. "It's such a huge change in your life that there are many days and moments of feeling terribly low and lost, as well as feeling elated and in love with your child," she explained. Apte's honesty reflects a growing awareness of the complexities of motherhood, where moments of joy are often intertwined with feelings of exhaustion and uncertainty.

Apte also pointed out the impact of sleep deprivation, a common experience for new parents, on emotional well-being. "Also, sleep deprivation doesn't help with that," she noted. She described the journey as "a constant up and down," emphasizing that it is "very, very natural and normal to feel that way." By sharing her own experiences, Apte hopes to normalize the wide range of emotions that new mothers face and encourage open conversations about maternal mental health.

Radhika Apte has long been a vocal advocate for mental health awareness. In past interviews, she has spoken about the importance of therapy and building a strong support system. She has also emphasized the need to destigmatize mental health issues in India. Apte's willingness to discuss her preparation for postpartum depression aligns with her broader commitment to promoting mental well-being and reducing the stigma associated with mental health challenges.

On the professional front, Apte's film "Sister Midnight" premiered in Indian theaters on May 30, 2025. The dark comedy, which marks the directorial debut of Karan Kandhari, had previously been screened at the Cannes Film Festival in 2023. While promoting the film, Apte has continued to use her platform to address important social issues, including maternal mental health.

Apte's openness about her experiences as a new mother serves as a reminder that motherhood is a multifaceted journey with both joys and challenges. By sharing her story, she encourages other women to prioritize their mental health and seek support when needed.