n our fast-paced, technology driven world, mental health has become an increasingly pressing concern, particularly among students. The demands placed on them from academic pressures to social expectations are greater than ever before. The digital age, with its opportunities and challenges, has added a new layer to these pressures.
While students now have unprecedented access to global networks, social media platforms have also amplified the sense of comparison and competition, leaving many to struggle in silence. I recently had the privilege of participating in a workshop titled “Empowering Gender in Developing Positive Mental Health: an Approach to Sustainability.” The event was honoured by the presence of Dr.
Nilima Bhagawati, a retired professor from Gauhati University, acclaimed educationist, and esteemed social worker, who graced the occasion as the chief guest. Inspired by the insights and discussions from this enriching experience, I felt compelled to share it with you, the reader. Through open discussions, students shared personal struggles and received thoughtful guidance.
The event also underscored the impact of social media, where idealised portrayals of success often lead to unhealthy comparisons and diminished self-esteem, emphasizing the need for resilience and positive mental health strategies. Students are continuously exposed to idealized images of others’ lives, which can foster feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and self-doubt. This culture of compariso.
