Russian comedian Yulia Akhmedova has disclosed details of her stay in a psychiatric hospital, describing her daily routine and treatment during a two month period of care for severe depression and suicidal thoughts.
The entertainer spoke about her experience in a newly released episode of the culinary talk show Derzkaya Gotovka, which was published on the Russian streaming platform VK Video.
Akhmedova explained that she was initially hesitant to seek inpatient care, refusing to enter a medical facility at first because she was reluctant to take an extended absence from her work. However, she later decided to undergo treatment and ultimately spent two months inside a psychiatric clinic.
During her stay, medical staff conducted numerous examinations, which resulted in a diagnosis of bipolar disorder.
Daily routine inside the clinic
Describing life inside the psychiatric facility, Akhmedova said that patients followed a structured daily schedule that included regular administration of pills, alongside injections and intravenous drips for individuals who required them.
She said that a psychologist worked with her on a daily basis and that patients took part in various group activities, including art therapy sessions and organized group discussions. Akhmedova noted that patients interacted with one another throughout their stay, but she advised that individuals needed to remain cautious due to the diverse mix of personalities inside the hospital.
The comedian said she had originally entered the hospital after suffering from deep depression and experiencing thoughts of suicide. The extensive examinations conducted during her two month stay ultimately confirmed her diagnosis of bipolar disorder.
Background and past health disclosures
Bipolar disorder is a long-term mental health condition characterized by significant shifts in mood, including periods of severe depression and emotional highs. Treatment typically involves a combination of prescribed psychiatric medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle management.
Akhmedova is one of the most prominent female stand-up comedians in Russia, known for her work on television comedy programs and as a creative producer. Her appearance on Derzkaya Gotovka, an online interview show presented by former rhythmic gymnast Laysan Utyasheva, was broadcast on VK Video, one of Russia's primary online video streaming services.
This was not the first time the comedian had spoken publicly about her mental health challenges. In September 2020, Akhmedova disclosed that she had been admitted to a psychiatric hospital to receive treatment for severe depression, revealing at the time that she had struggled with an obsessive urge to take her own life.
