“THE DARK REALITY OF SUICIDE IN PREMIER INDIAN INSTITUTES – UNVEILING THE ROOT CAUSE”

Premier Indian institutes like Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), and National Institutes of Technology (NITs) have witnessed a rise in suicide cases in recent years. This alarming trend has raised concerns about the mental health of students in these prestigious institutes.

According to a study conducted by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), there were 10,159 suicide cases in the education sector in 2018 alone. Out of these, 381 cases were reported from the IITs, IIMs, and NITs. The numbers have been steadily increasing over the years, and it is a worrying trend that needs to be addressed immediately.

One of the main reasons for this rise in suicides is the high pressure and stress that students face in these institutes. The competition is fierce, and the workload is intense. Students often spend hours studying and preparing for exams, leaving little time for rest and relaxation. The pressure to perform and achieve high grades can lead to extreme anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts.

The culture of comparison and competition is also prevalent in these institutes. Students are constantly comparing themselves to their peers and striving to be better. This creates a toxic environment that puts immense pressure on students to perform and excel at all times.

Another reason for the rise in suicides is the lack of adequate mental health support in these institutes. Many students are not aware of the resources available to them, and even if they are, they may be hesitant to seek help due to the stigma surrounding mental health issues in India. Moreover, the shortage of trained professionals in this field makes it even more difficult for students to access the help they need.

The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated the mental health issues among students in these institutes. With the shift to online classes and the lack of social interaction, students are feeling isolated and disconnected from their peers. This has led to an increase in stress, anxiety, and depression.

To address this issue, the Indian government and the education institutes need to take concrete steps to improve mental health support for students. They need to prioritize the mental well-being of students and create a supportive environment that promotes positive mental health.

One of the ways to achieve this is by increasing the availability of mental health professionals in these institutes. The institutes should also conduct regular workshops and training programs to raise awareness about mental health issues and encourage students to seek help when needed.

Moreover, the institutes need to address the culture of competition and comparison. They should promote a more collaborative and supportive environment that encourages students to work together rather than against each other.

In conclusion, the rise in suicides among students in premier Indian institutes is a serious issue that needs urgent attention. The root cause of this problem is the high pressure and stress that students face, coupled with the lack of adequate mental health support. It is time for the government and education institutes to take concrete steps to address this issue and prioritize the mental well-being of students. Only then can we hope to create a healthier and more supportive environment for students in these prestigious institutes.