Guwahati: In a compelling address delivered within the hallowed halls of Parliament, Assam Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi brought forth the pressing issue of escalating youth suicides across India, demanding immediate and substantial national attention to the burgeoning mental health crisis.
Gogoi’s discourse resounded with a stark statistic, a somber figure of nearly 40,000 students lost to suicide within the last five years, casting a dark shadow over the nation’s future.
Gogoi’s narrative moved beyond mere numbers, venturing into the societal fabric that he believes contributes to this tragedy. He critically examined the traditional constructs of masculinity, arguing that the societal expectation of emotional stoicism is a significant factor in the mental health struggles faced by young men. He passionately advocated for a paradigm shift, asserting that true strength lies in the acknowledgment and navigation of emotions, not in their suppression.
The parliamentarian further connected the dots between the pervasive nature of digital platforms and the rising tide of mental distress. He pointed to the post-pandemic surge in social media reliance as a catalyst for heightened stress, social anxieties, and a discernible decline in overall mental well-being among the youth. Gogoi called for a concerted effort to mitigate the adverse effects of digital engagement on young minds.
Gogoi also referenced the recent Netflix series “Adolescence,” noting its significant impact on public discourse regarding youth mental health in India. He highlighted the series’ realistic portrayal of the intense pressures stemming from academic demands, social media bullying, and the complex landscape of emotional distress faced by young people, underlining the series’ resonance with the lived experiences of many.