Understanding and Supporting Students' Mental Health
A UNICEF report shows that one in seven young people aged 15 to 24 years in India suffers from poor mental health, including symptoms of depression. The rise in mental health problems stems from factors like academic pressure, exam failure, bullying, body image, financial strain, and interpersonal and family issues such as conflicts, excessive control, and lack of support.
In India, academic stress, the intense pressure to succeed, and fear of failure are major contributors to mental health struggles among young people. This can lead to anxiety, depression, self-harm, and even suicide. In 2022 the NCRB (National Crimes Records Bureau) also reported that 916 individuals aged 18 to 30 years died by suicide due to the fear of failing exams. For many, success in exams is seen as the key to their future, and their self-worth becomes deeply tied to academic achievements. This creates a sense of immense pressure and isolation.
Watch part I of Rounit's video story, where he shares his journey of dealing with depression after experiencing academic failure in the NEET exam. He openly discusses the pressure, self-doubt, and despair he felt. He opens up about the strategies that helped him heal, and the importance of our loved ones’ support in dealing with mental health difficulties. Most importantly, he reminds us to stay hopeful.
To watch the entire series, check out our YouTube channel It’s Ok Baat Karo
Educational institutions and parents/care givers have a key role to play in addressing the mental well-being of students. In fact, in 2022, the NCRB reported that “family problems” were the leading cause of suicide among children. Schools and colleges can support students' mental health by offering counselling services, raising awareness, focusing on holistic development over marks, and reducing the stigma around failure.
Parents can also play a crucial role by setting realistic expectations, encouraging open communication, and supporting interests beyond academics. Teaching students to view failure as a learning opportunity fosters growth and resilience. It’s important to create a safe and supportive environment for young people and regularly check in on their well-being.
If you've faced mental health challenges due to academic pressure, family, or interpersonal issues, you're not alone. Sharing your story can help ease the emotional weight you carry and offer hope to others facing similar struggles. Reflecting on your experiences also gives you space to express yourself and gain new insights. Its Ok To Talk is one such platform where you can share your journey through any medium that feels right for you.
✨Email your submission to stories@itsoktotalk.in in English or Hindi. You can use any format of your choice (article, video, audio, art/illustration)
✨You can choose to submit anonymously
✨We’re here to support you in your journey of sharing your story, reach out to us at stories@itsoktotalk.in
References:
Mapping Youth Mental Health Landscapes: Local Insights from 13 Countries (pp. 37–42). (2024). https://being-initiative.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Mapping-Youth-Mental-Health-Landscapes_April-18-2024.pdf
Unicef. (2021, October). Adolescent Mental Health. Unicef Data. https://data.unicef.org/topic/child-health/mental-health/
Clarance, D. (2024, September 30). Student suicides rising in India: The stigma and the silence. India Today. https://www.indiatoday.in/health/story/student-suicide-rate-rising-india-stigma-silence-mental-health-2607598-2024-09-30
Aparajita. (2024, October 7). Mental Health for Students in India: Overcoming Academic Pressure. Careme.health. https://careme.health/blog/mental-health-for-students-in-india-overcoming-academic-pressure