‘Biggest problem is the lack of support for youngsters’

Authorities at KEM Hospital who have been entrusted with curbing suicides in Mumbai said that pressure to do well in school and relationship issues were the two most common problems cited by students aged 16 to 25 that they have counselled. Unfortunately, these distressed youngsters often do not have a strong support network within their family or friends circle, they said.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has a round-the-clock helpline – 02224131212 – on which two women, both professional counsellors, take phone calls related to mental issues,includingsuicidaltendencies. They receive an average of 150 to 200 calls a week.

Speaking to Hindustan Times, Dr Shubhangi Parkar, who monitors the counsellors’ work, said, “In 2016, about 16% of calls were from people aged 16 to 20, while 80% were from those aged 20 to 40. We also get a lot of follow-up calls, which comprise 18 per cent of all calls. There is complete anonymity. They keep calling back as they can express themselves anonymously. They feel safe. Once were develop a rapport we use many problem-solving strategies.” She added, “Two major problems that those aged 16 to 25 face are academic pressure and relationship problems. Those aged 21 to 25 cite unemployment, money problems and issues with their families.”

Dr Parkar, who has been working in the field of suicide prevention for decades, said the biggest problem for people with depression was the lack of a support network. “They become lonely and take to some kind of addiction like alcohol or drugs. In such situations one needs to speak about one’s problems with family or friends. The students who call us generally have multiple issues and negative thoughts about their future.”

Officials from KEM Hospital are visiting schools, colleges, BEST depots and railway stations to reach out to students.