Student’s death raises concern over support for struggling kids in schools

The death of a Class X student of St. Columba’s School has triggered deep concern among families across Delhi, raising questions about whether schools provide enough emotional support to children who may be struggling silently.

Though many schools in the Capital say they have counselling services, students often report they aren’t sure how to access them or feel hesitant to approach counsellors.

A Class X student said she frequently feels anxious during exams, but has never gone to the counsellor. “We are told in assemblies that the counsellor is available, but no one explains how to actually meet them. If we approach during class time, teachers get upset,” she said.

Another student said: “If we tell teachers we’re stressed or scared, they think we’re making excuses. So we just keep quiet”.

Parents said academic demands often overshadow emotional needs. “Marks, competition, coaching, it’s constant. If a child is struggling inside, teachers may not even notice. Schools need more and trained counsellors who interact with students, not ones who remain unreachable.”

Education experts in Delhi say signs of distress in students can be subtle and easily overlooked. Ashok Aggarwal explained that many adolescents face “silent emotional overload,” adding that children often don’t know how to articulate what they’re experiencing. “They show signs, but adults assume it’s normal teenage behaviour,” he said.

Aggarwal emphasised that counsellors need to engage regularly with students instead of waiting for them to ask for help. “Support must reach the child. The child shouldn’t have to go searching for it,” he said

“If children don’t have a positive atmosphere at home, they look for it in school. But the teachers don’t bother as they are also under pressure,” says a child counsellor, Jayanti Dutta, on the Delhi school suicide case.

The St. Columba’s incident has struck a chord with families across the city, prompting many to reflect on how schools handle emotional well-being. A parent standing at the protest site said: “Every time something tragic happens, everyone talks about change, but nothing really shifts. This time, it has to.”

For many across Delhi, the St. Columba’s tragedy is a reminder that emotional safety must be treated as seriously as academics. Families and experts say it’s time for schools to build systems where children feel supported, understood and never alone.