Referring to recent surveys and studies conducted under national health programmes, he said a significant proportion of adolescents in Himachal Pradesh were grappling with psychological stress.
The findings indicated that nearly 53 per cent of adolescents were experiencing mental stress, while around 14 per cent were suffering from depression. More worryingly, about 5 per cent of teenagers, particularly those in the 15-18 age group, had reported suicidal thoughts, he said.
Kumar said Himachal Pradesh had long been considered one of the better-performing states in terms of development indicators and quality of life, making these findings even more concerning. “Despite visible progress, the mental well-being of our youth appears to be deteriorating. This calls for serious introspection,” he said.
Highlighting the underlying causes, the former Chief Minister pointed to rising unemployment, career-related anxiety and mounting economic pressure.
He observed that increasing inequality and uncertainty about the future had further intensified stress among young people. “Even with various welfare and development schemes, many youths feel insecure about their career prospects and livelihoods,” he added.
Linking the issue to broader national trends, he said economic growth had not adequately addressed disparities, which continued to affect mental health. The growing pressure to succeed, coupled with limited opportunities, had heightened stress levels among students and young professionals alike, he said.
Calling for urgent and coordinated action, Shanta Kumar urged both the government and society to treat mental health as a priority area. He stressed the need for greater awareness, accessible counselling services and the integration of value-based education in schools. He said that promoting yoga and ethical learning could play a vital role in helping young people cope with stress.
“If such is the situation in Himachal Pradesh, the scenario elsewhere could be even more serious. This issue demands immediate and sustained attention,” he cautioned.
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