India’s Adolescents Face a Silent Mental Health Crisis
Mental health issues among Indian adolescents are escalating at an alarming rate, yet they remain largely ignored. With rising academic pressure, social expectations, and digital influence, young individuals are silently battling anxiety, depression, and self-harm, often without access to proper support.
Editorial
1/29/20251 min read
A recent report by the World Health Organization (WHO) reveals that suicide is the second leading cause of death among individuals aged 15-29 years, with India contributing significantly to these numbers. The National Mental Health Survey of India (2015-16) found that 7.3% of Indian adolescents suffer from mental disorders, yet only 1 in 10 receive professional help.
The Pressure to Perform
For many students, the pressure to excel academically is overwhelming. Competitive exams, parental expectations, and societal norms push adolescents to their limits. “I felt like I had no choice but to succeed,” says 17-year-old Rohan Sharma, a student preparing for engineering entrance exams. “The stress was unbearable, but talking about it wasn’t an option.”
The Role of Social Media
The digital age has brought new challenges. Studies indicate that 30% of Indian teenagers experience cyberbullying, leading to self-esteem issues and anxiety. The constant comparison with curated online lives exacerbates feelings of inadequacy.
Breaking the Silence
Experts emphasize the need for mental health education in schools, accessible counselling services, and community awareness programs. Initiatives like Manaskriti offer online counselling, but more needs to be done at the grassroots level.
With India’s youth forming a significant portion of the population, addressing adolescent mental health is not just a social necessity—it’s an economic imperative. The time to act is now.
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