Youngsters ‘hide’ depression, anxiety behind all-well image

Youngsters may project an “all-well” image before society, but the reality is that many are silently struggling with serious mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, withdrawal behaviour and even violent tendencies. A significant number of youth, along with their parents, are seeking help from psychiatrists and psychologists, who stress that timely therapies and medication can bring substantial improvement.

Speaking to The Tribune, Dr Ravinder Kala, director, Mind Plus, said that parents and youngsters were approaching experts with a wide range of issues. One emerging trend, she noted, is that many young people do not wish to marry early as was common a decade ago. “Youngsters today prioritise freedom and financial independence,” Dr Kala said.

Highlighting the challenges arising from modern relationships, she said that, “Whether it is a boy or a girl, most youngsters want to be financially independent. Many meet through social media, which shows only a rosy picture. But when they confront the realities of running a household and sharing responsibilities, clashes occur. Break-ups follow, leading to anxiety and depression, after which they require therapy or medications.”

Sharing an example, psychologist Ravneet Kaur said she recently handled a case involving a 31-year-old woman, who had faced two break-ups due to incompatibility. “She is now so fearful that she refuses to marry. Even though her parents are bringing good proposals, she says she wants to focus on work and financial security. Her parents, under societal pressure, fear she will not find a suitable match later. We are now counselling both parents and the girl,” she said.

Experts warn that relationships formed on social media often put individuals at risk as crucial facts are commonly concealed. Dr Kala emphasised that parents must spend quality time with their children and avoid burdening them with unnecessary expectations.