Child Mental Health in Peril: A Call to Action For a Healthier Generation
New Delhi (News18): As the world celebrates Children's Day, experts warn that the foundation of good health is laid in childhood, and neglecting mental well-being can have long-term consequences for generations to come.
According to Dr. Rima Dada, Professor at AIIMS, Delhi, rising levels of stress, anxiety, and depression among adolescents – with 11 per cent reporting anxiety and 14 per cent experiencing extreme emotions - threaten the health and wellness of a generation.
The root cause of these issues lies in childhood adversity, such as family conflict, bullying, exposure to violence, and poor sleep habits. These adverse experiences can activate gene pathways that trigger inflammation, oxidative stress, and negative effects on brain development.
As Dr Dada points out, new pressures like digital overload, inadequate diets, and environmental pollutants are adding to the complexity of existing risk factors, underscoring the need for strong mental health interventions.
To combat this, experts recommend fostering supportive spaces at home – such as promoting regular yoga practice, mindful eating, physical activity, and open conversations. This foundation builds trust, emotional regulation, and equips children with resilience to face challenges.
In schools, prioritizing mental health education alongside physical health and integrating it into the curriculum is essential. Teachers should be trained to recognize early signs of mental illness, build trust, and understand each child's needs, fostering a supportive community that improves mental and physical health outcomes.
The long-term consequences of neglecting adolescent mental health are alarming – limiting opportunities for fulfilling lives in adulthood and leading to poor public health outcomes and significant economic costs.
This Children's Day, there is an urgent need to focus on nurturing well-being and brighter futures. By adopting evidence-based strategies and creating supportive environments, we can build a healthier, happier generation that is better equipped to tackle life's challenges.
Dr Rima Dada's views are personal and solely those of the author, do not necessarily reflect News18's views.