Why do students in India face so much mental stress? Know how to help them
We often feel around us that students are burdened with so many expectations that they start suffering from mental stress, but can they be helped?
Mental Health Crisis Among Indian Students: India has the largest student population in the world. According to data from the All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE), this number has increased by at least 28% in the last 10 years. In a diverse country like India, another problem has emerged with the increasing number of students. Data shows that in the last few years, more than 75% of students have reported symptoms of moderate to severe depression.
Reasons for tension among students
1. Uncertainty about career
Career aspirations contribute significantly to the stress of many young students. With the competition for entry-level jobs increasing year after year, the uncertainty surrounding it can force them to take on more pressure than necessary, which can cause problems in the long term.
2. Not being able to face the situation
Many students who attend college are experiencing independence for the first time. This means they don't have the traditional support system of family and friends to turn to when facing stressful situations. As a result, they turn to alcohol, drugs, and social media because they don't know how to cope.
A Lancet study has shown that the percentage of drinking population under the age of 21 has increased from 2% to more than 14% in the last 15 years. Similarly, screen time for young adults has increased by more than 75% in the last two years. Although these methods may give them immediate relief, they can prove to be harmful in the long term.
3. Stigma associated with mental health
Mental health issues are often not looked upon favorably in India. Many students are afraid to speak out about any problems they face - be it academic, personal or any other problem, because they feel that if they say anything, they will be judged. According to a survey by UNICEF, only 41 percent of youth in the age group of 15 to 24 years in India said that it is good to get support for mental health problems, whereas in 21 other countries this figure is 83 percent on average.
How can students be helped?
India's famous clinical psychologist Dr. Jini K Gopinath told how to help students facing mental stress.
1. Peer Support Programs
The first step to reducing the stigma associated with mental health is to create awareness in public spaces. This can be done through peer support programs involving teachers and students. This way students can feel comfortable in sharing their problems and allow institutions to keep an eye on their students.
2. Sensitize teachers (Sensitization for Faculty)
Promoting sensitivity and understanding among faculty and staff makes it easier to identify students in trouble and helps create a safe environment. Regular training for teachers can ensure that they understand the changing circumstances of students, learn to identify signs of stress, and provide the necessary support.
3. Access to Mental Health Professionals (Professional Help)
A safe space should be created for students to share their problems where no one judges them. Career counseling or professional help can also be provided to college students to help them in their placement.
(Disclaimer: Dear reader, thank you for reading this news. This news has been written only to make you aware. We have taken the help of home remedies and general information in writing this. If you read anything related to your health anywhere, then definitely consult a doctor before adopting it.)