‘I Just Could Not Sleep’: Kalki Koechlin On Battling Insomnia After Heartbreak

The CSR Journal Magazine

Kalki Koechlin recently shared her struggles with insomnia, which stemmed from experiencing heartbreak. During a podcast conversation with host Soha Ali Khan, she emphasized how psychological challenges can significantly influence both mental and physical health. Koechlin articulated that what started as emotional pain transformed into a physical manifestation, primarily characterised by sleepless nights.

The actor stated, “I did have a series of months of insomnia from heartbreak, and it really made me realise how psychological it all is.” She highlighted the interconnectedness of mental well-being and bodily responses, indicating that emotional turmoil can lead to serious sleep disturbances.

Koechlin’s journey through insomnia illustrated the profound impact of unresolved emotional issues, particularly the toll it can take on daily life. As nights became longer and more restless, she found herself unable to attain the rest she needed.

Strategies for Coping with Sleep Deprivation

In her efforts to manage the insomnia, Kalki turned to various activities to occupy her mind during the night. She recounted waking up at 2 or 3 am and resorting to playing the guitar or engaging in other pastimes, unable to fall back asleep. “I just could not sleep,” she explained, reflecting on the difficulty of coping with her situation.

This insomnia phase brought additional challenges as she attempted to maintain her work commitments. Koechlin recounted her feelings of disorientation during the daytime, struggling to differentiate between reality and her dream state. “I was really confused, wondering, ‘Is this really happening, or am I still asleep?’” she recalled, emphasising the confusion that arose from continuous sleep deprivation.

The persistent lack of rest negatively affected her overall functioning, leading to difficulties in engaging with both professional and personal responsibilities. Her experiences shed light on the broader implications of such emotional distress on various aspects of life.

Personal Life and Recent Projects

Kalki Koechlin’s personal life has also influenced her journey. She was previously married to filmmaker Anurag Kashyap and is now in a relationship with Guy Hershberg, with whom she welcomed their daughter, Sappho, in 2020. These experiences of love and heartbreak have shaped her perspective on mental health and emotional resilience.

Recently, Koechlin appeared in the film Goldfish, which was released in 2025. Her role in this film marked a continuation of her diverse acting career and an exploration of new creative avenues. The challenges she faced during her journey underscore the complexities of navigating personal and professional spheres in the face of emotional upheaval.

Koechlin’s openness about her struggles with insomnia not only reflects her personal experiences but also highlights critical conversations around mental health. By sharing her story, she encourages a broader dialogue about the psychological factors that can lead to physical health issues, advocating for increased awareness and understanding in both public and private spheres.

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