Mental health issues rising among students in Maldives and India

Recent studies highlight rising mental health challenges among youth in the Maldives and India. In the Maldives, research involving 418 students across nine regions found that mental health issues, including severe anxiety, are most prevalent among students in grades 10 to 12. Contributing factors identified include bullying, harassment, social isolation, family issues, and academic pressure. The study also noted that societal stigma remains a significant barrier to families seeking professional support.

Similarly, a NIMHANS study conducted across nine Indian states involving young people aged 18 to 21 found that one in four participants experiences significant anxiety symptoms. Researchers attribute this distress to intense pressure to succeed, fear of falling behind, and high family expectations. The findings suggest that for many young people, self-worth has become increasingly tied to academic and career achievements, making setbacks feel like personal failures.