The 21st century has made lives more complicated for youngsters. Stress often builds up for students because of parental, peer and performance pressure.
While many find an outlet talking to friends and extended family members about their problems, others bottle up their feelings – creating all sorts of complications which can impact their health as well as academic performance.
“Guilt, hopelessness, helplessness, frustration are just some of the feelings that can force an individual to take extreme steps. When people feel they are not able to fulfill what is expected of them, feelings of despair may arise. It is at this moment that you should talk about these feelings with someone,” says Dr Nupur Lal, a clinical hypnotherapist based in Noida.
Sarika, a clinical psychologist, adds, “It is a fact that mental health problems are associated with suicidal tendencies – depression being one of the major causes of attempted or completed suicides. Consulting a well trained mental health professional would be of definite help.”
What then is the ‘right’ time for someone to consult a specialist? “When you feel that you are unable to attain your goals, that your progress is being blocked and you are vulnerable to things around you, when frustration takes over, understand that you need to talk and share your thoughts with others. Apart from visiting a counsellor, you can also talk to and seek help from the elders in your family (like grandparents/parents) or friends,” suggests Dr Lal.
You are not alone
If depressed, get help
* Make sure you are not alone when you feel depressed.
* Talk about your feelings to people you are close to. Get support by contacting support groups, calling the hotline
* Take the focus off yourself. Reach out to others who are ill or poor
* Your family loves you. Take care of your health and happiness for their sake
