India boasts the highest population of children and adolescents in the world. But the prevalence of mental health problems among higher education students is worrying. A study by the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) found that 23 percent of school children in India have mental health problems. It now requires the apex court of the country to step in with the formation of a National Task Force (NTF) on tackling mental health issues in educational institutions across the country.
The Supreme Court on March 24 made a landmark judgment when it took note of the recurring cases of student suicides in higher educational institutions and formed the NTF to address the mental health concerns of students and prevent such incidents. The court-appointed NTF will seek public opinion in preparing its reports on tackling mental health issues in educational institutions across the country.
Headed by Justice S Ravindra Bhat, a former SC judge, the NTF comprises a distinguished panel of experts, including Dr. Alok Sarin, Prof. Mary E. John, Arman Ali, Prof. Rajendra Kachroo, Dr. Aqsa Shaikh, Dr. Seema Mehrotra, Prof. Virginius Xaxa, Dr. Nidhi Sabharwal, and Ms. Aparna Bhat. It also includes ex-officio members from key government departments, including the Department of Higher Education, the Ministry of Women and Child Development.
Student mental health issues stem from a complex interplay of factors, including academic pressure, social challenges, financial difficulties, and a lack of support, all exacerbated by the pressures of modern life and societal expectations. As the NTF aims to assess current policies, review relevant laws, and consult with various stakeholders to create an inclusive approach to improving student welfare, the mental health infrastructure and policies and schemes undertaken by the Government have already been laid but how far these has percolated the masses needs to be studied and pluck the gaps. It would be an easy task for the NTF to study.
However, one of the factors that the task force can explore is family dynamics that significantly impact students’ mental health. Delving into the intricacies of family dynamics would open a door to better mental health study. A healthy family is one with open communication, adaptability, shared values, conflict resolution and supportive environment and if these go amiss necessary suggestions could be made to fill the gaps, wherever needed, to ensure students’ holistic well-being.
Educators and students ought to be equipped with tools to identify early signs of emerging mental health issues. Additionally, there should be educational opportunities focused on raising awareness and managing mental health crises, including the risk of suicide or self-harm. It is also essential to address the adverse effects of stigma and cultural attitudes towards mental illness.
Nevertheless, the task Force is also set to launch a website and a social media handle to encourage public engagement and receive suggestions. By involving a wide range of stakeholders and fostering an open dialogue, it is hoped that the voices of those affected are central to the decision-making process, with the ultimate goal of creating a safer and more supportive environment for students across the country.
Help will be on the horizon if the apex court comes up with a robust recommendation on mental health to facilitate healthy psychological growth of the future generations.
