Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Nov 22: : Following a disturbing rise in suicide cases among school-going children in Delhi, Rewa, and Jaipur, mental health experts on Saturday called on parents and teachers to stay alert to early signs of emotional distress and suicidality in adolescents.

In the past few weeks, three minors have died by suicide — a Class 10 student who jumped from Rajendra Place Metro station in Delhi, an 11th-grader in Rewa who left behind a note, and a nine-year-old in Jaipur who leapt from the fourth floor of his school building.

Experts say the incidents reflect a growing mental health crisis among children in high-pressure academic and social environments.

“Depression and anxiety among adolescents are rising globally, but parents often mistake symptoms for laziness or lack of interest,” said Dr. Shiv Prasad, Psychiatrist at Lady Hardinge Medical College.

He highlighted warning signs such as withdrawal from family and friends, irritability, persistent sadness, sudden personality changes, loss of interest in studies, physical complaints like headaches to avoid school, and sudden weight changes.

Dr. Astik Joshi, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist at a leading Delhi hospital, stressed the importance of recognising suicidal intent early.

“Often a child expresses their intent to someone close before making an attempt. Behavioural changes — isolation, impulsivity, giving away belongings, or increased aggression — may appear in the days or weeks prior,” he said.

Experts pointed to rising academic competition, long coaching hours, fear of disappointing parents, and relentless peer comparison — worsened by social media — as significant stressors. Cyberbullying, often hidden from adults, adds further strain.

They urged parents to shift focus from performance to well-being by creating a safe emotional environment where children can speak freely about their feelings. Seeking timely professional help can also prevent escalation.

Interventions such as increased socialisation, school-based support, skill-oriented therapy, and medication when needed can significantly reduce the risk of suicide attempts, Dr. Joshi said.

Mental health specialists emphasised that awareness, timely intervention, and a supportive home environment are essential to protect vulnerable children from reaching a crisis point.