Preparedness, prevention and early intervention are factors that can help youth, says Dr Zirak Marker

Nothing is strong as gentleness, and nothing is as gentle as real strength

— RALPH SOCKMAN

Mental health concerns in our youth are on the rise. No matter what the age or grade of a child, all our children are vulnerable and as parents, we need to be cognizant of our child’s emotional and psychological needs at all times. With a high increase in stress levels, substance abuse, adolescent suicides, exposure to social media and other factors that jeopardise their well being — preparedness, prevention and early intervention — are the key factors to equip us to save a life or just simply preserve our youth.

Fitting in and not standing out is an integral part of our Youth today in discovering who they are and amalgamating their identity.

Around 30-70 percent of school-going children experience bullying or peer pressure in some form or the other. However, only less than half of them report it. Whether it's emotional, verbal, physical, sexual or cyberbullying - it usually slips the parental radar because of the guilt, fear and shame that ride high in the victims.

Most children and adolescents never share as they feel embarrassed or threatened that it will get worse if reported. They go through extreme feelings of rejection and isolation.

Low self-confidence, anxiety and depression; lack or loss of interest and motivation; inability to focus or concentrate; disturbed appetite and sleep patterns and psychosomatic symptoms.

Bullies too, are perhaps victims themselves. They may come from dysfunctional homes/environments or just have behavioural patterns based on their narcissistic personality traits.

They force conformity and assert power so as to enhance control in a group setting. They wear a mask of dominance to hide or deflect their own complexes, insecurities or weaknesses. Being perceived as different themselves they usually target children they see as different or weaker.

What should We Do?

• From a very early age instill values and morals in our children to be more accepting and tolerant of various people and situations around us.
• To be devoid of discrimination and bias — based on gender, religion, caste, disability, socio-economical background, skin colour or sexual orientation.
• Instill the ability to step into the shoes of another person, aiming to understand their feelings and perspectives, and to use that understanding to guide our actions
• Inculcate the concept of collective responsibility in schools and society — to stand up and not be a bystander especially when it is wrongdoing that’s been witnessed.
• Astringent disciplinary policies and counselling must be adopted in all educational institutes.
• Let children know that someone else’s behaviour is not a reflection of their weakness or their fault. The bully, victim and bystander need psychological assistance.

All need to feel safe, secure and accepted.