Concerned at the spate of students dying by suicide, heath experts and psychologists have called for robust mental health plans for schools to curb the distressing trends among the impressionable minds.
On the eve of the World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10, they flagged that over 13,000 students died by in 2021 in India at the rate of more than 35 every day. This is up by 4.5% from the 12,526 deaths in 2020 with 864 out of 10,732 suicides being due to “failure in examination” according to the latest data as per NCRB’s ADSI report 2021, they pointed out.
A study by the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) too has painted a grim scenario. It found that the suicide rate among college students in India is 16.7 per 1,00,000. This is significantly higher than the global suicide rate for college students, which is 10 per 1,00,000.
In the backdrop of such a grim scenario, Dr Jyoti Kapoor, founder-director and senior psychiatrist, Manasthali suggested framing comprehensive mental health plans within schools. “In the pursuit of nurturing young minds, a vital imperative emerges: the implementation of comprehensive mental health plans within schools.
The escalating toll of student suicides demands a proactive response that transcends traditional academic paradigms.” She further suggested that such plans should encompass not only crisis intervention but also preventive measures, destigmatizing conversations around mental well-being.
By fostering a culture of empathy and support, schools can become sanctuaries where students feel valued and understood.
“A robust mental health framework must involve accessible counseling services, awareness campaigns, teacher training, and parental involvement.” Dr Smita Deshpande, a renowned psychiatrist from Dr Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, Delhi listed out a string of steps need to be taken to prevent suicides among students.
“There is a need to increase awareness through educational campaigns, public awareness events, and media coverage. Also, vulnerable students should be identified by talking to students and assessing their mental condition and thought process.”Dr Krishna Veer Singh, Co-Founder & CEO of Lissun said that the Day serves as an annual global reminder of the pressing issue facing India, which stands at the 41st highest suicide rate worldwide, demanding our immediate attention and concerted efforts.
“Education and awareness campaigns are instrumental in destigmatizing mental health issues and normalizing conversations around them. Timely intervention can quite literally save lives,” Singh added.
Dr. Neerja Agarwal , Co- Founder of Emoneeds echoed similar views saying that recent onslaught of Covid-19 pandemic has only exacerbated these problems, intensifying feelings of anguish and hopelessness on a global scale. During such trying times, the simple act of reaching out to someone who cares can be a literal lifeline.”