Winner of the culinary show 'MasterChef', Natalka Nikishina, has spoken openly for the first time about her mental health struggles. In an interview, the brand chef admitted that she has been taking antidepressants for about eight months to treat an anxiety disorder.
As reported by RBK-Ukraine, citing Slava Demin's program, the decision to seek medical help was not an easy step for Nikishina, but it was precisely this decision that helped her regain the joy of life.
Crisis after triumph
Natalka explained that her emotional state deteriorated under the influence of several heavy factors. The main reason was severe exhaustion following her participation in the popular show. However, the problems were not limited to professional fatigue alone.
Among the key triggers, the blogger cited the unprocessed loss of her father, which she had been struggling with for over ten years, as well as constant uncertainty about the future. An additional blow to her psyche was an unsuccessful collaboration with a production agency that did not yield the expected results.
The path to the doctor
Initially, the girl tried to cope with the overwhelming problems on her own by turning to a psychologist. However, no improvement occurred. Subsequently, she visited a neurologist, who referred her to a specialist psychiatrist. It was the doctor who made the exact diagnosis — anxiety disorder.
"I came in and said: 'Well, I'm probably a fool now'. And she said: 'No, everything is fine, you came at just the right time'. I have an anxiety disorder, I've been taking antidepressants for about eight months," Nikishina shared her thoughts.
Changes and the 'straight-A student complex'
After starting medication, Natalka noticed significant positive shifts. Constant irritation left her life, and sudden outbursts of anger disappeared. Apathy gave way to strength and inspiration.
The treatment had special significance for her self-esteem. The culinary blogger admitted that she managed to look at herself in a new way, gradually getting rid of the "straight-A student complex". She stopped demanding perfection from herself in everything, which became an important stage in her recovery.
Fighting stigma
Nikishina actively urges colleagues and subscribers not to be afraid to seek professional help. She emphasizes that a psychiatrist is a doctor just like any other, and taking medication should not be a reason for shame or judgment.
"When I finally made the decision that I really needed to go to the doctor, I am not embarrassed by it, I am promoting it directly. Right now I have a ton of inspiration, a ton of energy, and a ton of antidepressants," the show star concluded.
