New Delhi: In recent years, Indian premier institutes like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), and National Institutes of Technology (NITs) have witnessed a disturbing trend of rising suicide cases among students. The reason behind this alarming trend is multifaceted and requires immediate attention from authorities.
According to data, between 2014-2019, 163 students committed suicide in the IITs, and the numbers are rising every year. Similarly, NITs and IIMs also report increasing suicide rates among students. This trend is especially concerning as these institutes are supposed to provide a bright future for students, but instead, they are turning into a breeding ground for mental health issues.
The root cause of this trend Is a combination of academic pressure, lack of support systems, and societal expectations. Students in these institutes face enormous academic pressure, which often leads to depression and anxiety. The high-stress environment, coupled with the cut-throat competition, results in an overwhelming workload and an intense focus on academics, leaving little room for personal interests and hobbies.
Additionally, the lack of support systems further exacerbates the situation. Many students find it challenging to cope with the academic pressure and need psychological support to help them deal with their mental health issues. However, due to a lack of adequate counseling facilities, students are often left to deal with their problems alone, which makes the situation worse.
Moreover, societal expectations add to the burden on students. The expectations to excel academically and secure high-paying jobs create an immense amount of pressure on students, which can be detrimental to their mental health.
To tackle this growing concern, institutes need to prioritize mental health and well-being. They must create a conducive environment that fosters holistic development and provides students with ample opportunities to pursue their interests outside academics. Institutes need to establish a robust counseling system that offers support to students dealing with mental health issues.
Furthermore, institutes must engage with students and create awareness about mental health issues. They must conduct regular workshops and seminars to educate students about mental health and the importance of seeking help when needed. Institutes must also work towards reducing academic pressure and creating a supportive and inclusive environment.
The rising suicide cases in premier institutes like IITs, IIMs, and NITs is a grave concern that needs immediate attention from authorities. The reasons behind this trend are complex and require a multi-pronged approach to address them. Institutes must prioritize the mental health and well-being of their students and work towards creating a supportive environment that fosters holistic development. It’s high time that we recognize the importance of mental health and create an environment that is conducive to the growth and well-being of our students.
Tags: Indian Institute of Technology, Indian Institute of Management, National Institute of Technology, mental health, suicide, academic pressure, counseling system, well-being, support systems, societal expectations.