The recent news of NEET topper Navdeep Singh has come up as a huge shock to the nation. A successful student, a doctor and a high achiever, Navdeep supposedly had everything a typical student dreams of but still the reality now seems something else. It clearly shows that failure is not the only reason for such drastic steps, it is deeper than that.
Heart wrenching 💔
Dr Navdeep who was AIR-1 in #NEETUG 2017 & Currently doing PG-2 (Radio) from MAMC ,#Delhi
Allegedly died due to #suicide by hanging.
🕉️Shanti🙏🏻 #MedTwitter pic.twitter.com/rriGEuSrJr— Indian Doctor🇮🇳 (@Indian__doctor) September 15, 2024
Suicide rates in India have been drastically increasing every year, especially among students. The report says that while the overall suicide numbers increased by 2% annually, student suicide cases increased by 4%, despite a likely ‘underreporting’ of student suicide cases. As a result, student mental health has become a growing concern, with stress, anxiety, and emotional difficulties. Students face immense academic pressure, peer competition, and the challenge of balancing school with other activities. Teachers and parents play a vital role in ensuring the well-being of students and creating an environment where they can thrive both academically and emotionally.
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Signs of mental health struggle in students
Recognizing the signs of mental health struggle early on I key to providing timely support. Here are some common signs that a student might be struggling with their mental health:
- Decline in academic Performance: A sudden drop in grades or difficulty in completing schoolwork can indicate mental health issues.
- Isolation or withdrawal: students who become distant or stop interacting with friends and family may be dealing with emotional problems.
- Mood swing: Frequent mood changes, irritability, or outbursts, can be signs of underlying anxiety or stress.
- Changes in sleep patterns: Difficulty sleeping, sleeping too much, or exhaustion during the day can indicate stress or depression.
- Loss of interest: Students might lose interest in day-to-day activities or even things they once enjoyed.
How can teachers support students’ mental health?
School is considered as a second home for students. Teachers spend a large portion of their time with students making them the key figures in identifying and addressing mental health issues. Here are some ways teachers can support student mental health:
- Create a positive classroom environment: A supportive and inclusive classroom atmosphere can help students feel safe and understood. Encourage open discussions, promote kindness and try to make an environment where students can open up and share their feelings.
- Identifying warning signs early: Pay attention to any changes in the student’s behaviour, or academic performance. If you feel the student is withdrawn or acting out instead of losing cool or punishing them, try to talk to them and understand their state of mind.
- Encourage communication: Promote students to speak their feelings openly. Create a non-judgmental and empathetic environment to make them feel at ease. Sharing their struggle is the first step towards getting help.
- Teach stress management techniques: Incorporate stress-relief activities into the classroom, such as mindfulness exercises, breathing techniques etc. This can help students manage anxiety and improve focus.
- Promote a healthy work-life balance: Encourage students to take breaks, get enough sleep and engage in physical activity. Remind them that while academic success is important, so is taking care of their mental health.
- Work with school counsellors: If you notice that a student is struggling, collaborate with the counsellor to create a support plan.
How can parents support students’ mental health?
Parents are primary caregivers and have a significant impact on their children’s emotional well-being. Here are some ways parents can support their child’s mental health.
- Create a safe and open: Be empathetic and create a non-judgmental environment for your child to talk to you and open up about their challenges and struggles. Let them know that you will always be there for them no matter what.
- Monitor stress levels: Pay attention to your child’s stress levels, especially during exam periods or when they’re balancing multiple responsibilities. Help them manage their time effectively and encourage breaks to prevent burnout.
- Limit screen time: Excessive use of technology and social media can contribute to feelings of anxiety and isolation. Encourage your child to set time limits on screen time themselves and do more physical activities. You can too promote it by engaging in physical activities like playing with them.
- Be a role model: Children learn from adults, they often mirror their parent’s behaviour. Show them how you handle stress in a healthy way by practicing self-care, managing your time well and seeking help when needed.
- Encourage problem-solving: Instead of solving problems for your child, encourage them to think critically and give them space to develop their own solutions creatively. This will build resilience and boost confidence in them.
Parents and teachers hold a very important place in a child’s life. They spend the most time with them and are responsible for their growth and development. Parents and teachers must work hand-in-hand to support a student’s mental health. If a teacher notices any sign of distress, they should communicate it with the parents to discuss possible solutions. Likewise, parents should inform teachers if their children are facing any challenges that may affect their performance and mental health.
You can change the fate of your children!
