‘I Have Anxiety Issues, I Can’t Sleep’: Barun Sobti opens up about ADHD diagnosis and the signs he first noticed

Actor Barun Sobti, best known for his iconic role in Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon, has candidly spoken about his journey with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and anxiety, revealing that he recognised several symptoms in himself long before receiving a formal diagnosis.

During a recent appearance on Be A Man, Yaar! Season 3, Barun shared how years of recurring behavioural patterns eventually prompted him to seek professional help. His honest conversation has sparked discussions about the importance of mental health awareness and breaking the stigma around seeking treatment.

‘I Felt Something Was Different’

Speaking with Nikhil Taneja, Barun revealed that he was the first person to suspect he might have ADHD after noticing certain habits that had followed him since childhood.

Recalling his first visit to a therapist, the actor said he had initially tried to diagnose himself before consulting a mental health professional.

Barun explained that he constantly found himself moving, struggled to stay engaged in conversations that did not interest him, and often dealt with restlessness.

He also shared that anxiety made it difficult for him to sleep.

Seeking Professional Help

The actor said that after consulting doctors, he was diagnosed with ADHD and began receiving treatment.

Barun revealed that he is currently taking prescribed medication to help manage his symptoms.

Looking back at his childhood, he recalled how his family viewed his energetic behaviour as simply being an extremely hyperactive child.

Over time, however, he realised that professional support and appropriate treatment helped him better understand and manage his condition.

An Incident That Stayed With Him

Barun also recalled an experience while working with filmmaker Anurag Basu, who noticed his constant fidgeting and restlessness.

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The actor shared that he struggled with sleep during that period and was later prescribed anti-anxiety medication by his doctor.

The experience further reinforced the importance of recognising symptoms early and seeking expert guidance instead of ignoring them.

‘Asking for Help Is Not Weakness’

During the conversation, Barun spoke strongly against the stigma often associated with mental health conditions.

He encouraged people to openly discuss their struggles and seek professional support whenever needed.

According to the actor, asking for help should never be considered a sign of weakness but rather an important step towards improving one’s well-being.

His message resonated with many fans, who appreciated his openness about a topic that is often misunderstood.

A Career That Won Millions of Hearts

Barun Sobti began his television journey in 2009 with Shraddha before appearing in popular shows such as Dill Mill Gayye and Baat Hamari Pakki Hai.

However, it was his portrayal of Arnav Singh Raizada in Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon that transformed him into one of Indian television’s most loved actors and earned him a loyal fan following across the world.

Today, beyond his successful acting career, Barun’s willingness to speak openly about mental health is helping encourage greater awareness and conversations around conditions such as ADHD and anxiety.