TV
A surge in student suicides in Odisha has highlighted the urgent need for mental health support within the state's educational institutions. The University Grants Commission (UGC) issued guidelines in 2023 for setting up student service centres designed to address mental health concerns in higher education. However, colleges and universities in Odisha are yet to implement these measures.
Calls for Counselling in Higher Education
While some schools in Odisha offer counselling services, higher education institutions have not followed suit. The UGC guidelines advocate for dedicated counselling access through various methods such as online platforms, telephone helplines, or group counselling sessions tailored to students' needs.
According to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, 72 students from both private and government-run schools and colleges have committed suicide since 2020. The investigation points to academic pressure, examination-induced depression, personal relationship issues, bullying, peer misunderstandings, family conflicts, mobile phone restrictions in hostels, homesickness, and limited parental visits as contributing factors.
Majhi noted the alarming increase in student suicide figures, which rose from 119 in 2021 to 173 in 2022, and further climbed to 189 in 2023.
Available Helplines Remain Underutilised
Although helplines such as Tele-MANAS (14416) and SCB Medical College Hospital's Mental Health Institute line (1800-3457288) are available, awareness remains low. From 2021 to October 2023, Tele-MANAS fielded approximately 20,000 calls, largely from young individuals. The KIRAN mental health rehabilitation helpline (1800-599-0019), operational in 13 languages including Odia, is another resource.
Bhubaneswar-based psychologist Pradyumna Dalei pointed out a significant lack of awareness among students regarding these mental health resources. "The inclination towards suicide in youths is high due to various stressors, yet there is a reluctance to seek assistance," he noted.
To address this, the Odisha government, under the Mo College Abhiyan programme, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Indian Psychiatric Society in 2023 to enhance mental health awareness among college and university students. Nonetheless, progress has been slow.
