HEALTH CONCERN
The Mental Health crisis in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) is a deeply concerning yet often overlooked issue that has escalated in recent years. While the region has been in the spotlight due to its political and socio-economic challenges, the growing mental health burden has remained a silent pandemic. With high rates of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and suicide, particularly among the youth, the mental health burden in J&K has reached alarming levels. The socio-political instability and natural disasters have exacerbated the psychological well-being of the people in J&K, creating a public health crisis that demands immediate attention.
In Jammu and Kashmir Youth are facing serious mental health challenges. The high unemployment, limited job opportunities has led to rising levels of anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. Even well educated individuals, including those with PhDs, M.phil and NET qualifications, are unable to find jobs, which only add to their frustration and feelings of hopelessness. The pressure on this generation is immense, as they see a future filled with uncertainty and few prospects.
With few positive outlets for growth and a lack of strong mental health support, many young people have turned to harmful coping methods, such as drug use and self-harm. Tragically, suicide rates have also surged, particularly among the youth, highlighting the severity of the mental health crisis in the region. Drug abuse is also a growing concern, as substance use has become a coping mechanism for many who feel disconnected from society and lack proper support systems. The alarming increase in suicides, particularly among youths, reflects the dire need for intervention and mental health support tailored to their specific challenges. This crisis not only reflects the practical difficulties they face but also the deep sense of despair that has settled in among the younger population in Jammu and Kashmir.
Parents of children with special needs often face serious mental health challenges, including depression, frustration, and anxiety. A primary cause of this stress is the lack of adequate resources, such as access to appropriate schooling and necessary medical or therapeutic services for their children. In Jammu and Kashmir, special education and early intervention programs are often insufficient or difficult to access, leaving parents to navigate a complex and underdeveloped system. This can lead to feelings of hopelessness and depression as parents struggle to find schools that meet their child’s unique needs or professionals who can provide the required care.
Moreover, parents of adult children with special needs experience distinct mental health concerns. As their children grow older, many parents worry about their future care, especially when there is no reliable support system to take over once they are no longer able to provide care themselves. The fear of who will take responsibility for their child after they are gone becomes a constant source of anxiety. I spoke with various special need parents and a significant percentage particularly in Kashmir, where resources are limited, experience psychological distress. Approximately 95% of parents reported me they are struggling with mental health issues such as depression or anxiety, with many relying on medication to cope with their emotional strain. This ongoing stress has a profound impact on their well-being, making it challenging for them to manage daily responsibilities.
According to some senior Clinical psychologists and mental health workers, anxiety and depression are becoming increasingly common among adolescents, often due to parenting pressures and conflicts between parents. In some cases, experiences of sexual abuse can lead to significant psychological changes, including anxiety, personality shifts, and anger issues among adolescents. The trauma of continuous abuse severely impacts mental health. Additionally, many parents impose high academic expectations on their children, leading to intense stress and a fear of failure. In some instances, parents pressure their children to choose educational streams or career paths based on their own desires, rather than considering the child’s interests and strengths. This constant pressure to meet these expectations can contribute to serious mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, emotional detachment, and trauma.
As discussed with another Clinical psychologist, he informed that adolescents, particularly those above 20 years, often experience relationship issues that can significantly impact their mental health. These unresolved struggles are linked to the development of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) and depression. In severe cases, individuals may attempt suicide due to the overwhelming emotional pain caused by these interpersonal difficulties. Relationship instability often leads to emotional deregulation, further exacerbating mental health issues. Maintaining healthy, supportive relationships is crucial, and addressing these challenges early can help prevent severe psychological outcomes in young adults.
As reported by some professional Social workers (MSW), the mental health crisis in Jammu & Kashmir also has gendered dimensions. Women in the region, particularly widows, those who have endured domestic violence, and those, whose spouses are in prison, are especially vulnerable to severe mental health problems. The trauma of losing a spouse or family member combined with the social stigma often placed on widows increases their risk of developing depression and anxiety. Many half-widows also face social isolation, financial hardships, and limited access to proper care, all of which further aggravate their psychological distress.
Additionally, women who have survived sexual violence or forced displacement face unique emotional challenges. These women often experience heightened levels of trauma, shame, and guilt, which can manifest as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, or anxiety. The emotional scars of sexual violence and the trauma of displacement can leave lasting psychological effects. These experiences of gender-based violence, combined with social marginalization and the lack of effective support systems, significantly intensify the mental health struggles of women in Jammu & Kashmir. Addressing these issues is crucial for improving the well-being of women in the J&K and ensuring they receive the care and support they need. Late marriages can also lead to mental health issues, particularly depression, among individuals and their parents. Societal pressure to marry at a certain age, along with feelings of loneliness and social isolation, can negatively impact emotional well-being. The stigma surrounding delayed marriages can increase stress and affect overall mental health.
Addressing the Mental Health crisis in Jammu & Kashmir requires a multi-faceted approach. First and foremost, there is an urgent need to increase awareness and advocacy about mental health and reduce the stigma surrounding it. Community based initiatives, such as awareness campaigns and workshops across various locations in Jammu & Kashmir, can help encourage people to seek help. Additionally, schools, colleges, and universities can play a key role in educating young people about mental well-being. There is also an immediate need for greater investment in mental health services in J&K. Expanding the number of Mental health professionals, in every schools such as clinical psychologists and mental health counselors, will improve access to counseling, while enhancing the quality of mental health infrastructure is crucial. Furthermore, integrating mental health care into the primary healthcare system and district hospitals would help reach a larger number of people, especially in rural areas, and address the root causes of the mental health crisis.
The Mental health crisis in Jammu & Kashmir is a silent pandemic, compounded by social instability, and economic deprivation. This crisis demands immediate attention from both the Government and society. By prioritizing mental health, investing in infrastructure, and fostering a culture of support and inclusion, it is possible to alleviate the psychological suffering of millions in the region. The people of Jammu & Kashmir deserve not only peace and security but also the opportunity to heal and rebuild their lives.
Taking care of our mental health is not a luxury, it’s a necessity. It’s okay to seek help, take breaks, and prioritize your well-being. Just as we nourish our bodies, we must nourish our minds. You deserve peace, kindness, and understanding, not only from others but also from yourself.
(Author is Sr. Pediatric Rehab Therapist & Social Worker (MSW). Feedback: [email protected])
