The surge in student suicides in India is indeed a concerning issue, shedding light on the need for a more holistic and supportive approach within the education system. The alarming statistics from the National Crime Record Bureau underline the urgency for intervention.
The draft UMMEED guidelines put forth by the Union Ministry of Education represent a positive step towards addressing the crisis. The emphasis on understanding, motivating, managing, empathizing, empowering, and developing students highlights a shift towards a more comprehensive and student-centric approach. The proposal for School Wellness Teams (SWT) to identify and support vulnerable students is a proactive measure to address mental health issues at an early stage.
The ‘Manodarpan’ initiative under the ‘Aatma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan’ further demonstrates the government’s commitment to prioritizing mental health within the education system. By providing psychosocial support to students, families, and teachers, this initiative aims to create a more supportive environment and enhance overall well-being.
Education reform advocates rightly stress the importance of collaboration among schools, parents, and communities. This multi-stakeholder approach is crucial in eliminating harmful notions and reducing the social stigma associated with mental health issues and suicidal behavior. Making expert professional help accessible through initiatives like ‘Manodarpan’ is a positive step in this direction.
It’s encouraging to see policymakers and Members of Parliament like Annpurna Devi actively engaging in efforts to address the mental health crisis in students. Continued collaboration and implementation of these initiatives are vital to creating a more nurturing and supportive educational environment for students in India.
(Author is an academician, translator, consultant, trained mental health counselor, sexual wellness coach, corporate trainer, & suicide prevention activist. Currently she is Academic Director at IIMM Delhi & course facilitator of the course – “Leadership & Management in Health” offered by University of Washington)
