In the wake of a recent and deeply distressing incident, where a young JEE aspirant took her own life, celebrities have come forward to shed light on the underlying causes contributing to the alarming trend of suicides among youngsters. The heart-wrenching suicide note, where the 18-year-old referred to herself as a “loser,” has not only sparked widespread grief but has also ignited a crucial conversation about the factors influencing the mental well-being of today’s youth

Vaquar Shaikh
It is indeed a very sad and extremely disturbing thing to hear when students commit suicide. There could be numerous reasons why students, especially those studying away from home, take such drastic steps. It might be due to overwhelming expectations from society, parents, or peers. The fear of not meeting these expectations and facing judgment from society, parents, and neighbors can be a heavy burden for students. Academic pressure, stress, bullying, and the pressure of love affairs are additional factors that contribute to the distress. Discrimination and feelings of loneliness can also lead someone to take such a drastic step. Mental health struggles and the inability to cope with stress and expectations can be challenging for many individuals. Parents go through an unimaginable pain when they lose their loved ones, especially their children. External influences such as OTT films and social media can contribute to stress, loneliness, and triggers for vulnerable individuals. However, blaming these external factors entirely is not fair, and parenting plays a significant role. Parents need to be vigilant and keep a check on their kids’ behavior, spending time with them, talking openly, and being friends with them. Balancing the thin line between being authoritative and understanding is crucial. Parents should guide their kids, become their friends, and create an environment where children feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and concerns. In the digital age, parents are encouraged to monitor their children’s online activities to a certain extent. However, building trust and open communication is more effective than excessive surveillance. It is essential for parents to engage in discussions about academics, friendships, and any issues their children might be facing. Encouraging a supportive atmosphere at home can help children navigate difficult situations with confidence. In the wake of unfortunate incidents, parents are urged to be compassionate, understanding, and actively involved in their children’s lives.

Sheezan Khan
These youngsters are not influenced by OTT or movies. Those who take such drastic steps are not even inclined to watch movies because they themselves are deeply depressed. Parents need to comprehend that they cannot impose their wishes on their children, as doing so results in losing their own kids, and children cannot handle that pressure. They live in constant fear of failing and struggle to meet their parents’ expectations. The burden becomes so overwhelming that they find it difficult to cope and may resort to extreme measures. While having such thoughts is common, most of us have contemplated them at some point, but thankfully, we don’t act upon them. We must not lose hope. Some students face pressure from both their parents and society. Blaming the individual who takes such a step is misguided; instead, responsibility lies with the people around them. Even family members should be accountable for understanding their child and the challenges they are facing. We never know when our mental health may become fragile, and in such cases, the blame often rests with the parents. Families often fail to comprehend their children because those who take such steps believe that no one cares. Every suicidal case is unique, and sometimes the child succumbs to the pressure of competition around them. Teenagers are inherently impulsive, and during moments of disturbance, seeking help is crucial. In India, there is a lack of belief in counseling, and it would be beneficial for everyone if counseling becomes a mandatory monthly practice for children in need.

Charrul Malik
Witnessing young people take their own lives is truly disheartening. The pressure they face, fueled by peer expectations and societal competition, often leads to drastic actions. The negative impact of OTT platforms and movies, especially in places like Kota, can’t be ignored. These influences create a false connection with fictional characters, impacting vulnerable minds. Loneliness, anxiety, and the pursuit of perfection contribute to the distress. Communication is key, emphasizing the importance of mental health. Proposing mandatory, grade-free mental health classes for all students can address these issues. Weekly discussions between students, teachers, and parents can foster a supportive environment. To prevent future tragedies, universities and schools should prioritize Mental Health Awareness classes, attended by all. Acknowledging that success extends beyond grades is crucial, and creators in media should be cautious of their content’s impact.

Sumbul Touqeer
There are several factors that can contribute to the complex issue of teenagers resorting to suicide. The intense focus on exams and academic achievements can create an environment of extreme competition, pushing some students beyond their emotional limits. High expectations from parents to excel academically can add to the pressure. The fear of disappointing their families may become overwhelming for some teenagers. Socioeconomic factors can play a role. Financial instability or lack of resources for additional support can add stress to an already challenging situation. Open communication and reducing the stigma around mental health are crucial components of any solution

Kanchi Singh
⁩One possible factor is the intense competition and high expectations around exams in places like India. The pressure to do well can be too much for some teenagers, leading them to feel hopeless. Now, as for the influence of OTT platforms and movies, it’s a complex issue. Some argue that these can contribute to unrealistic expectations and unhealthy comparisons. But it’s important to remember that many factors contribute to a person’s mental health, and it’s not fair to blame just one thing. Parents definitely don’t want their children to suffer like this, but it’s a tough situation. Furthermore, parental expectations to excel academically and the fear of disappointing loved ones compound the stress. The lack of accessible mental health support, coupled with societal stigma surrounding mental health issues, creates barriers to seeking help. We need to address the broader issues in the education system, support mental health, and encourage open conversations to help prevent these tragic situations.

Somy Ali
My deepest condolences to the parents for their tragic loss. The untimely death of this teenager is truly heartbreaking, emphasizing the intolerable pain she must have been experiencing. Reflecting on my experience with victims of suicide and analyzing the suicide note, it’s evident that societal pressures, instilled by parents or peers, contribute to a distorted self-perception. I attribute the alarming rise in youth suicides to societal and social media influences, perpetuating a false narrative of perfect lives. Mental health issues are often ignored, creating a universal elephant in the room. The barbarity of people’s comments online and the ingrained abusive words affecting one’s psyche are alarming. Some individuals, like Stalin and Hitler, turn into sociopaths, finding pleasure in hurting others while being strangely revered. Suicide, far from an act of cowardice, results from unbearable psychological or physical pain. Prominent figures like Robin Williams and Deepika Padukone advocating for mental health awareness highlight its universality. I urge influencers to use their clout for educational purposes, as it can save lives. Society’s reluctance to openly discuss depression is regrettable, and celebrities like Deepika set a commendable example. The impact of celebrity actions on youth cannot be overstated. Authenticity, exemplified by figures like Mark Duplass and Hrithik, is crucial in an era where social media shapes young minds. Parents are implored to choose their words carefully, recognizing their significant impact on their children. The collective responsibility for preventing such tragedies lies with all of us, emphasizing the need for authenticity and understanding in our society.

Daanish Khan
I believe that many students today seek validation in our society. They also feel a strong pressure to be accepted socially, both in the real world and on social media platforms. Tragically, some resort to suicide because they fear opening up about their struggles. Comparisons among children have always existed, whether between siblings or among friends’ children, which contributes to their insecurities. Unfortunately, many children lack the confidence to discuss their failures with their parents, leading to unaddressed issues. This communication gap can exacerbate feelings of loneliness, pushing some to take drastic measures. Despite warnings and information, it’s undeniable that cinema holds a significant influence on people. It’s a powerful medium of communication that can impact individuals both positively and negatively. While there are instances of negative influence, I’ve observed that the positive impact tends to outweigh the negative.