Sanchita Ugale's death: Expert shares why success doesn't always protect mental health

The death of television actor Sanchita Ugale at the age of 22 has once again brought mental health among young professionals into focus. While investigations into the circumstances surrounding her death are ongoing, mental health experts say such tragedies often remind us of an uncomfortable truth: outward success does not always reflect inner wellbeing.

In an era dominated by social media validation, constant comparison, and relentless pressure to perform, many young people find themselves struggling emotionally even when their careers appear to be flourishing.

When success arrives before emotional stability

According to Mr Saikishore, Clinical Psychologist at Aster Whitefield Hospital, early success can sometimes create pressures that younger individuals are not fully equipped to handle.

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"Early success doesn't really cause depression in a straight line, but it can bring psychological pressures that make younger people more vulnerable emotionally. For many Gen Z professionals, artists, athletes and content creators, success arrives while their identity is still developing," he explains.

What initially feels exciting can gradually become a burden when achievement becomes closely tied to self-worth.

"At first, success brings praise and validation. But when that validation becomes linked too strongly to one's sense of self, even a minor setback, criticism, or slowdown can feel far more threatening than it actually is," Saikishore says.

The social media comparison trap

Experts point out that today's generation is navigating challenges that previous generations never experienced at the same scale. Social media platforms constantly expose users to carefully curated versions of other people's lives, creating the impression that everyone else is achieving more, earning more, or progressing faster.

"This younger generation is growing up inside a nonstop comparison loop. Many feel pressure not only to succeed but to keep outperforming themselves. The fear of becoming irrelevant, forgotten, or not meeting expectations can gradually lead to anxiety, burnout, feelings of inadequacy, and in some cases, depression," says Saikishore.

For young actors, influencers, entrepreneurs, and professionals whose careers often play out in public view, those pressures can be even more intense.

Depression is rarely caused by one thing

Mental health professionals caution against attributing depression or suicidal thoughts to a single event or circumstance.

"Depression rarely stems from one cause or one moment. It usually emerges from a complex combination of psychological, biological, social, and environmental factors," Saikishore explains.

He adds that success itself is not harmful. However, some of the challenges that can accompany success, including perfectionism, isolation, unrealistic expectations, and emotional exhaustion, can gradually affect mental wellbeing.

"Success isn't inherently damaging. But the baggage that sometimes comes with it can slowly erode mental health over time," he says.

Warning signs that should never be ignored

Mental health experts stress that certain symptoms should never be dismissed as attention-seeking behaviour or a temporary phase.

Among the warning signs are:

-Persistent sadness or hopelessness

-Emotional numbness or feeling mentally flat

-Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed

-Withdrawal from friends, family, or close relationships

-Thoughts of self-harm

Recognising these signs early and seeking help can make a significant difference.

The importance of reaching out

When someone experiences suicidal thoughts, experts say immediate human connection becomes critical.

"When someone is struggling with suicidal thoughts, the most important step is reaching out to another person, whether that's a trusted friend, family member, mental health professional, or emergency service. Nobody should have to face those thoughts alone," Saikishore says.

As conversations around mental health continue to grow, experts emphasise that achievement and emotional wellbeing are not the same thing.

"The key lesson is that success cannot replace emotional support, meaningful relationships, self-compassion, or professional mental health care when needed," Saikishore concludes.

As the conversation around Sanchita Ugale's death continues, mental health advocates hope it also encourages greater awareness of the silent struggles many young people may be facing behind seemingly successful lives.