NAVIGATING THE MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS: CHALLENGES AND SOLUTIONS FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS IN INDIA

Abstract

Mental health issues among college students in India have become a growing concern, driven by academic pressure, social media exposure, and changing lifestyles. This paper analyses data from the National Mental Health Survey (2015–16) and related studies to highlight the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders among students, with clear disparities across gender, age, and urban-rural settings. Females and urban residents are more affected by depressive disorders, while suicide rates are significantly higher among middle-aged men in certain states. Stigma, lack of awareness, and insufficient mental health infrastructure remain major barriers to timely intervention. However, promising strategies such as peer support programs, mental health literacy campaigns, and digital mental health services are being explored to address these gaps. The paper emphasizes the need for integrated, student-centred approaches that promote early detection, reduce stigma, and ensure accessible care, ultimately aiming to improve psychological resilience and well-being in academic environments.