Mental health, like physical health, is an essential part of leading a good and meaningful life. Yet, it is overlooked, especially among youth at universities. At Jagannath University (JnU), mental health support centre exists only on paper.
Today, university students face immense pressure due to academic requirements as well as personal struggles such as financial stress, family issues, housing problems, relationship difficulties, and poor exam results. These factors contribute to growing mental fatigue, leading to anxiety, depression, panic attacks, and in extreme cases, suicide. Some students become so overwhelmed that they lose motivation even to attend exams, which further complicates their academic journey.
Tragically, in just the first four months of this year, four students from Jagannath University have taken their own lives. While the university does have a mental health counselling centre, it is woefully under-resourced. There are not enough trained mental health professionals, nor is there a strong support system in place. As a result, students are often forced to seek help from costly and time-consuming private providers.
The problem is further deepened by social stigma. Many students are reluctant, or afraid, to speak openly about their mental health struggles. A significant number remain unaware of what mental health truly means or where to seek help.
This must change. The university authorities need to take meaningful, compassionate action to support students' mental well-being. Establishing a fully functional mental health centre staffed with qualified professionals, raising awareness, and encouraging open conversations on mental health should be the priorities.
Mishkatul Islam Mumu
Student
Department of Mass Communication and Journalism
Jagannath University