Rising Mental Health Crisis Among Adolescents Due to Social Media
During a session in the Rajya Sabha on February 11, 2026, Congress MP Jebi Mather Hisham expressed significant concerns regarding the mental health crisis among adolescents, attributing it to social media's influence. She highlighted the difficulty youths face in distinguishing between reality and fantasy, exacerbated by excessive online engagement.
Key Issues Highlighted
- Influence of Social Media:
- Youth are increasingly unable to differentiate between real and virtual worlds.
- Social media, especially Korean content and online games, is shaping adolescents' perceptions.
- Case Example:
- A 16-year-old girl's suicide in Chotanikara, influenced by the death of an online friend.
- Three sisters in Ghaziabad also affected by similar content.
- Need for Government Attention:
- Recent data indicate a rise in behavioral issues, cyberbullying, and suicidal tendencies among youth.
- Integration of mental health awareness into academic curricula is essential.
Additional Concerns Raised
- AAP leader addressed the need for accountability among public servants following deaths due to potholes and administrative delays.
Helplines are available for those in distress, emphasizing the need for accessible support systems.
