Walk into any Indian college today and you'll see it — bright students attending lectures, laughing with friends, scrolling through Instagram. But beneath this surface often lies something invisible and heavy: mental health struggles.
The transition into college comes with a wave of changes — new environments, academic pressure, career anxiety, social stress, and often, being away from home for the first time. It’s no surprise that student mental health in India is becoming a growing concern.
Yet, many students suffer in silence. Why? Because we still haven’t fully normalized asking for help when mental health issues arise.
Let’s face it — even today, the idea of going to a counselor or therapist carries a subtle stigma.
Some common (and harmful) thoughts students may have:
These beliefs are not just outdated — they are dangerous.
We rush to a doctor when we have fever or a sprain. But when we’re mentally exhausted, anxious, or emotionally numb — we delay, downplay, or deny.
Mental health is just as important as physical health.
Ignoring signs like:
...can turn everyday stress into chronic mental health issues like depression, burnout, or panic disorders.
Seeking help doesn’t mean you’re “failing” at handling life. It means you’re strong enough to prioritize your well-being. Here’s what help-seeking in college can look like:
1. Talking to a college counselor or psychologist
2. Opening up to a trusted professor or mentor
3. Joining peer-support groups or helplines
4. Using anonymous mental health apps or chat lines
5. Visiting a local therapist outside college if needed
Even one conversation can help you gain perspective, release pressure, and feel heard.
Recognize your feelings: If you’re constantly overwhelmed, tired, or disconnected — it’s not “just stress.” Listen to your mind like you would your body.
Find your space: Most Indian colleges today offer counseling services. If yours doesn’t, there are free helplines and affordable options online. (e.g., iCall, YourDOST, MindPeers)
Don’t wait for things to get worse: Early help is smart help. You don’t need to hit “rock bottom” to speak up.
You never know what someone around you is going through. By speaking up, you create space for others to do the same. As students, friends, peers — we can normalize mental health support in colleges by:
1. Listening without judgment
2. Encouraging friends to seek help
3. Talking openly about therapy and mental wellness
4. Sharing helpful resources
Asking for help is not an escape — it’s a step toward becoming stronger, calmer, and more self-aware.
If you’re struggling right now, know this: You don’t have to go through it alone.
Your mind matters. And help is not far — it’s just one conversation away.
Phybercare does not deal with medical or psychological emergencies. We are not designed to offer support in crisis situations – including when an individual is experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide, or is showing symptoms of severe clinical disorders such as schizophrenia and other psychotic conditions. In these cases, in-person medical intervention is the most appropriate form of help.
If you feel you are experiencing any of these difficulties, we would urge you to seek help at the nearest hospital or emergency room where you can connect with a psychiatrist, social worker, counsellor or therapist in person. We recommend you to involve a close family member or a friend who can offer support.
You can also reach out to a suicide hotline in your country of residence:
http://www.healthcollective.in/contact/helplines
