Health and Me

Aarushi Bhadury

COVID Booster Vaccines Show Unexpected Effect On People With Cancer: Study

Vaccines have been under extreme scrutiny in the recent times. Many people have expressed their skepticism, wondering why such medication is necessary. This has been an increasing concern for the last few years. A 2018 study in the Human Vaccines and Immunotherapy journal also brought up the increasing barrier between vaccines and people who do not trust them. 

This divide was highlighted during the COVID pandemic; people led marches expressing the importance of self-autonomy, even though the contagious nature of the disease posed immense threat. People especially brought up how vaccines expose us to the same virus we are trying to be immune to, and how it could pose serious harm for people who are already immunocompromised. However, a new study shows that not only does it not pose a threat, but it also benefits people with cancer.

Cancer patients are especially vulnerable to getting very sick from COVID-19. This is because their bodies might not be as strong at fighting off infections. But, a new study published in the JAMA Oncology, shows that COVID-19 vaccine boosters can be like a shield for them. These extra shots can really help prevent cancer patients from getting seriously ill, meaning they might avoid ending up in the hospital or worse.

<h2>Boosters Significantly Reduce Hospitalizations </h2>

Research has found that when cancer patients get COVID boosters, it lowers their chances of ending up in the hospital or in intensive care by nearly 30%. To put it simply, for every 150 to 166 cancer patients who got a booster shot, one person was kept out of the hospital or ICU. This is a big deal and shows just how helpful these extra vaccine shots are for people fighting cancer. Experts are saying that this benefit is very clear and encourages patients to talk to their doctors about getting vaccinated. 

<h2>Why Cancer Patients Need Boosters </h2>

People with cancer often have weaker immune systems. This can be because of the cancer itself or because of the strong treatments they receive, like chemotherapy. A weaker immune system means their body isn't as good at fighting off germs and viruses. That's why health organizations strongly suggest that cancer patients get vaccinated against COVID-19, including the boosters. It gives their bodies a better chance to fight the virus if they come into contact with it. 

The study looked at information from a very large number of cancer patients – over 161,000 of them – treated at different hospitals and health centers. What they found was that not enough cancer patients were getting their COVID boosters. For example, at one point, only about two-thirds had received their first booster, and even fewer got later boosters designed for newer versions of the virus. 

It's not entirely clear why this number is low. It might be because patients are worried about the vaccine's safety, or maybe doctors aren't sure if it's okay to give the vaccine during cancer treatment. But what is clear, according to the researchers, is that we need to strongly encourage and help vulnerable people, like cancer patients, get these important vaccines. This large study really helps us understand how well COVID-19 vaccines work, and scientists will keep studying them as the virus changes to make sure patients get the best advice. 

Scientists aren't stopping here. They plan to look into how well these vaccines work for other groups of people whose immune systems are also not as strong. This includes people with diseases where their immune system attacks their own body, or those who have received organ transplants. By studying these different groups, we can learn even more about how vaccines protect people with various health challenges. 

Health Conditions A-Z

health

covid

COVID Booster Vaccines

COVID-19

COVID Vaccines

Booster Shots

vaccines skepticism

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Vaccines have been under extreme scrutiny in the recent times. Many people have expressed their skepticism, wondering why such medication is necessary. This has been an increasing concern for the last few years. A 2018 study in the Human Vaccines and Immunotherapy journal also brought up the increasing barrier between vaccines and people who do not trust them. This divide was highlighted during the COVID pandemic; people led marches expressing the importance of self-autonomy, even though the contagious nature of the disease posed immense threat. People especially brought up how vaccines expose us to the same virus we are trying to be immune to, and how it could pose serious harm for people who are already immunocompromised. However, a new study shows that not only does it not pose a threat, but it also benefits people with cancer. Cancer patients are especially vulnerable to getting very sick from COVID-19. This is because their bodies might not be as strong at fighting off infections. But, a new study published in the JAMA Oncology, shows that COVID-19 vaccine boosters can be like a shield for them. These extra shots can really help prevent cancer patients from getting seriously ill, meaning they might avoid ending up in the hospital or worse. Boosters Significantly Reduce Hospitalizations Research has found that when cancer patients get COVID boosters, it lowers their chances of ending up in the hospital or in intensive care by nearly 30%. To put it simply, for every 150 to 166 cancer patients who got a booster shot, one person was kept out of the hospital or ICU. This is a big deal and shows just how helpful these extra vaccine shots are for people fighting cancer. Experts are saying that this benefit is very clear and encourages patients to talk to their doctors about getting vaccinated. Why Cancer Patients Need Boosters People with cancer often have weaker immune systems. This can be because of the cancer itself or because of the strong treatments they receive, like chemotherapy. A weaker immune system means their body isn't as good at fighting off germs and viruses. That's why health organizations strongly suggest that cancer patients get vaccinated against COVID-19, including the boosters. It gives their bodies a better chance to fight the virus if they come into contact with it. How The Study Was Conducted The study looked at information from a very large number of cancer patients – over 161,000 of them – treated at different hospitals and health centers. What they found was that not enough cancer patients were getting their COVID boosters. For example, at one point, only about two-thirds had received their first booster, and even fewer got later boosters designed for newer versions of the virus. It's not entirely clear why this number is low. It might be because patients are worried about the vaccine's safety, or maybe doctors aren't sure if it's okay to give the vaccine during cancer treatment. But what is clear, according to the researchers, is that we need to strongly encourage and help vulnerable people, like cancer patients, get these important vaccines. This large study really helps us understand how well COVID-19 vaccines work, and scientists will keep studying them as the virus changes to make sure patients get the best advice. Scientists aren't stopping here. They plan to look into how well these vaccines work for other groups of people whose immune systems are also not as strong. This includes people with diseases where their immune system attacks their own body, or those who have received organ transplants. By studying these different groups, we can learn even more about how vaccines protect people with various health challenges. 

covid booster vaccines show unexpected effect on people with cancer: study

Supriya Ramesh

World IVF Day: What Makes The IVF Journey So Hard On The Mind?

Credits: Canva

Parenting

IVF Day 2025: What Happens To The Unused Embryo After An Unsuccessful IVF?

ivf day 2025: what happens to the unused embryo after an unsuccessful ivf?

Health News

World IVF Day 2025: History, Theme, And Significance

world ivf day 2025: history, theme, and significance

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The Hidden Turmoil: Why Our Youth Are Quietly Crumbling and What We Can Do About It

the hidden turmoil: why our youth are quietly crumbling and what we can do about it

In vitro fertilisation (IVF) is not just about science, syringes and success rates. What lies behind the walls of fertility clinics is a deeply personal journey filled with hope, heartbreak and resilience, making it more than just a medical procedure. Beyond the social taboos, infertility brings huge stress to the patients. And while IVF offers hope, it does not come easy. It is a rollercoaster ride that patients experience as they take on the road to this procedure; highs and lows can take a severe mental toll on them.

However, for those unversed, infertility has been classified by the World Health Organisation as a disease like diabetes or hypertension; the social taboo around it still persists. Over the years, advancements in reproductive science have made IVF treatments more patient-friendly and significantly improved outcomes. Yet, the focus often leans heavily on science, expertise and clinic proficiency, while the mental and emotional toll on the couple is overlooked.

For many, the psychological impact of IVF can match that of the death of a family member or going through a divorce. Although many people find IVF very stressful, every patient experiences it differently. Personalities and life experiences play a big role in determining how one handles the process and what part of IVF they find most difficult.

Why Is IVF So Emotionally Draining?

We ask an expert to break down several key factors that contribute to the immense stress IVF brings:

<ul><li>Uncertainty of Outcomes</li></ul>Despite impressive advancements in technology and improved success rates, IVF still does not come with guaranteed results. The lingering “what if” looms large over every cycle.

<ul><li>Physical Strain</li></ul>From the painful injections to hormone-induced mood swings and headaches, the physical toll is real. Frequent clinic visits often interfere with work and daily routines, compounding the exhaustion.

<ul><li>Societal Pressure</li></ul>Dr Shilpa Saple, Director at Surya Fertility Clinics, explains that societal expectations around having a child add to the emotional burden. Cultural pressures can be intense, especially when extended families and communities expect results quickly.

<ul><li>Guilt and Shame</li></ul>This is especially true in cases of male-factor infertility. “Many men may not disclose any sexual problems they have,” says Dr Saple, leading to feelings of inadequacy and emotional isolation.

<ul><li>Depression After Failed Attempts</li></ul>When a cycle does not result in a pregnancy, it can lead to overwhelming disappointment and depression. Each failed attempt chips away at the couple’s morale.

<ul><li>Relationship Strain</li></ul>The IVF journey can test even the strongest relationships. “Intimacy and communication can be affected,” says Dr Saple, as couples find themselves under immense emotional and logistical stress.

Learning to Cope with Support Systems That Help

There is light at the end of the tunnel, and as Dr Saple says, there are several strategies that can help couples better cope with the IVF process.

<ul><li>Psychological Counselling</li></ul>Talking to a trained counsellor can offer clarity, emotional relief and perspective during this emotionally taxing time.

<ul><li>Support Groups</li></ul>Dr Saple says sharing experiences can help. Listening to others' IVF journeys can offer comfort, reassurance and hope.

<ul><li>Mind–Body Practices</li></ul>“Yoga, meditation, deep breathing and mindfulness can help calm the mind,” advises Dr Saple. Regular physical activity also boosts endorphins, naturally elevating mood and reducing anxiety.

Setting Realistic Expectations

“IVF may take more than one cycle to succeed,” she explains. Being mentally prepared for the outcome, while knowing you have done your best, helps couples accept results with resilience.

It is Okay to Ask for Help

As Dr Saple reminds us, mental and emotional health are as important as physical health during IVF. Prioritising emotional wellbeing not only makes the journey more bearable but can also improve the overall outcome. “Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness,” she says.

World Health Organisation

diabetes

physical strain

societal pressure

depression

relationship strain

psychological counselling

endorphins

mindfulness

In vitro fertilisation (IVF) is not just about science, syringes and success rates. What lies behind the walls of fertility clinics is a deeply personal journey filled with hope, heartbreak and resilience, making it more than just a medical procedure. Beyond the social taboos, infertility brings huge stress to the patients. And while IVF offers hope, it does not come easy. It is a rollercoaster ride that patients experience as they take on the road to this procedure; highs and lows can take a severe mental toll on them. However, for those unversed, infertility has been classified by the World Health Organisation as a disease like diabetes or hypertension; the social taboo around it still persists. Over the years, advancements in reproductive science have made IVF treatments more patient-friendly and significantly improved outcomes. Yet, the focus often leans heavily on science, expertise and clinic proficiency, while the mental and emotional toll on the couple is overlooked.For many, the psychological impact of IVF can match that of the death of a family member or going through a divorce. Although many people find IVF very stressful, every patient experiences it differently. Personalities and life experiences play a big role in determining how one handles the process and what part of IVF they find most difficult.Why Is IVF So Emotionally Draining? We ask an expert to break down several key factors that contribute to the immense stress IVF brings:Uncertainty of OutcomesDespite impressive advancements in technology and improved success rates, IVF still does not come with guaranteed results. The lingering “what if” looms large over every cycle.Physical StrainFrom the painful injections to hormone-induced mood swings and headaches, the physical toll is real. Frequent clinic visits often interfere with work and daily routines, compounding the exhaustion.Societal PressureDr Shilpa Saple, Director at Surya Fertility Clinics, explains that societal expectations around having a child add to the emotional burden. Cultural pressures can be intense, especially when extended families and communities expect results quickly.Guilt and ShameThis is especially true in cases of male-factor infertility. “Many men may not disclose any sexual problems they have,” says Dr Saple, leading to feelings of inadequacy and emotional isolation.Depression After Failed AttemptsWhen a cycle does not result in a pregnancy, it can lead to overwhelming disappointment and depression. Each failed attempt chips away at the couple’s morale.Relationship StrainThe IVF journey can test even the strongest relationships. “Intimacy and communication can be affected,” says Dr Saple, as couples find themselves under immense emotional and logistical stress.Learning to Cope with Support Systems That HelpThere is light at the end of the tunnel, and as Dr Saple says, there are several strategies that can help couples better cope with the IVF process.Psychological CounsellingTalking to a trained counsellor can offer clarity, emotional relief and perspective during this emotionally taxing time.Support GroupsDr Saple says sharing experiences can help. Listening to others' IVF journeys can offer comfort, reassurance and hope.Mind–Body Practices“Yoga, meditation, deep breathing and mindfulness can help calm the mind,” advises Dr Saple. Regular physical activity also boosts endorphins, naturally elevating mood and reducing anxiety.Setting Realistic Expectations“IVF may take more than one cycle to succeed,” she explains. Being mentally prepared for the outcome, while knowing you have done your best, helps couples accept results with resilience.It is Okay to Ask for HelpAs Dr Saple reminds us, mental and emotional health are as important as physical health during IVF. Prioritising emotional wellbeing not only makes the journey more bearable but can also improve the overall outcome. “Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness,” she says.

world ivf day: what makes the ivf journey so hard on the mind?

Ishita Roy

Family Urges Flu Vaccination After 8-Year-Old's Near-Fatal Influenza B Fight

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Millie Campbell was just eight years old in 2019 when a missed flu shot turned into a life-threatening ordeal, notes ABC News, Australia. What began with aches in her legs soon escalated into multiple organ failure caused by influenza B, a virus her parents never imagined could be so severe.

“They had to drain 200 millilitres of fluid from her heart, it was struggling,” her mother Stephanie Campbell recalled. “I think the doctor's words were: ‘Your daughter could die tonight’.”

Millie was airlifted from Newcastle to Westmead Children’s Hospital in Sydney, reports ABC News. Soon after arriving, she went into cardiac arrest. Her father, Ian Campbell, described the scene as surreal. “There was no indication she was going to survive,” he said.

Millie, previously fit and healthy with no pre-existing conditions, spent weeks in intensive care and six months in hospital. The damage from being on life support for so long led to poor circulation, and eventually, doctors had to amputate her left foot.

She had to learn to walk again. Today, reports ABC News, Millie uses a prosthetic leg and has turned to swimming not just for rehabilitation, but as a passion, one that has taken her to national championships and World Trials. Her eyes are now set on the 2028 Paralympics in Los Angeles.

“Millie’s recovery will be a lifelong journey,” Ms Campbell said. “Seeing how severe the flu can be, our message is: talk to your medical practitioner about the vaccine.”

<h4>Why Influenza B Is Hitting Children Hard</h4>

Although influenza A typically gets more public attention due to its pandemic potential, Australia has seen a sharp rise in influenza B cases, especially in children aged 5 to 16. According to Professor Patrick Reading from the World Health Organization (WHO) Collaborating Centre for Influenza Research, type B can often be more severe in children, though the reason remains unclear.

“It's a bit of a mystery,” Professor Reading told ABC News. “We see this association, but we can't say there's something specific about the virus that causes it to affect children more.”

Vaccination rates among this age group are currently the lowest of all, following a steady decline since the COVID-19 pandemic. Professor Reading warned that fading immunity, combined with lower vaccine uptake, is placing a burden on the healthcare system.

“We're not through the worst of it yet. Flu circulation continues through August to October,” he added. “It’s not too late to get vaccinated.”

<h4>Confusion Around Flu Vaccine Access</h4>

Millie’s parents said they’d always kept up with her vaccinations. But once she turned five, they mistakenly believed the flu wasn’t a major risk anymore. 

Under the National Immunisation Program (NIP), the flu vaccine is free only for children aged six months to five years, people over 65, and other vulnerable groups.

In contrast, states like Queensland and Western Australia are temporarily offering free vaccines to all residents, a move public health experts say should be adopted nationally.

Julie Leask, a vaccination policy expert from the University of Sydney, told ABC News, the current risk-based model isn't working. “When a vaccine is on the NIP, it sends a strong message that it's important,” she said. “Some doctors still wrongly advise against it for kids.”

<h4>Misinformation and Vaccine Hesitancy</h4>

Falling childhood vaccination rates, rising anti-vaccine sentiment, and misinformation, especially on social media, have complicated public health efforts.

Professor Leask pointed to anti-vaccine rhetoric, such as that from US politician Robert F. Kennedy Jr., as a growing influence in Australia. Kennedy has falsely linked vaccines to autism and recently pushed against COVID-19 vaccinations for children and pregnant women.

“We’re seeing the mainstreaming of misinformation,” Leask warned. “It’s having a ripple effect here too.”

Research shows common reasons parents skip the flu shot for kids include a lack of awareness, absence of a healthcare provider recommendation, time constraints, cost, and safety concerns.

As Millie thrives in her new life, her parents remain vocal about the importance of vaccination.

“This growing hesitancy is driven by people struggling to tell the difference between facts and misinformation,” Mr Campbell said. “Most people spend more time on social media than listening to experts, but that’s not where you should be getting your health advice.”

“Vaccination protects not just your child but the whole community.”

kids news

influenza b

breaking news

influenza b in australia

australia news

health and wellness

Millie Campbell was just eight years old in 2019 when a missed flu shot turned into a life-threatening ordeal, notes ABC News, Australia. What began with aches in her legs soon escalated into multiple organ failure caused by influenza B, a virus her parents never imagined could be so severe.“They had to drain 200 millilitres of fluid from her heart, it was struggling,” her mother Stephanie Campbell recalled. “I think the doctor's words were: ‘Your daughter could die tonight’.”Millie was airlifted from Newcastle to Westmead Children’s Hospital in Sydney, reports ABC News. Soon after arriving, she went into cardiac arrest. Her father, Ian Campbell, described the scene as surreal. “There was no indication she was going to survive,” he said.A Long Road to RecoveryMillie, previously fit and healthy with no pre-existing conditions, spent weeks in intensive care and six months in hospital. The damage from being on life support for so long led to poor circulation, and eventually, doctors had to amputate her left foot.She had to learn to walk again. Today, reports ABC News, Millie uses a prosthetic leg and has turned to swimming not just for rehabilitation, but as a passion, one that has taken her to national championships and World Trials. Her eyes are now set on the 2028 Paralympics in Los Angeles.“Millie’s recovery will be a lifelong journey,” Ms Campbell said. “Seeing how severe the flu can be, our message is: talk to your medical practitioner about the vaccine.”Why Influenza B Is Hitting Children HardAlthough influenza A typically gets more public attention due to its pandemic potential, Australia has seen a sharp rise in influenza B cases, especially in children aged 5 to 16. According to Professor Patrick Reading from the World Health Organization (WHO) Collaborating Centre for Influenza Research, type B can often be more severe in children, though the reason remains unclear.“It's a bit of a mystery,” Professor Reading told ABC News. “We see this association, but we can't say there's something specific about the virus that causes it to affect children more.”Vaccination rates among this age group are currently the lowest of all, following a steady decline since the COVID-19 pandemic. Professor Reading warned that fading immunity, combined with lower vaccine uptake, is placing a burden on the healthcare system.“We're not through the worst of it yet. Flu circulation continues through August to October,” he added. “It’s not too late to get vaccinated.”Confusion Around Flu Vaccine AccessMillie’s parents said they’d always kept up with her vaccinations. But once she turned five, they mistakenly believed the flu wasn’t a major risk anymore. Under the National Immunisation Program (NIP), the flu vaccine is free only for children aged six months to five years, people over 65, and other vulnerable groups.In contrast, states like Queensland and Western Australia are temporarily offering free vaccines to all residents, a move public health experts say should be adopted nationally.Julie Leask, a vaccination policy expert from the University of Sydney, told ABC News, the current risk-based model isn't working. “When a vaccine is on the NIP, it sends a strong message that it's important,” she said. “Some doctors still wrongly advise against it for kids.”Misinformation and Vaccine HesitancyFalling childhood vaccination rates, rising anti-vaccine sentiment, and misinformation, especially on social media, have complicated public health efforts.Professor Leask pointed to anti-vaccine rhetoric, such as that from US politician Robert F. Kennedy Jr., as a growing influence in Australia. Kennedy has falsely linked vaccines to autism and recently pushed against COVID-19 vaccinations for children and pregnant women.“We’re seeing the mainstreaming of misinformation,” Leask warned. “It’s having a ripple effect here too.”Research shows common reasons parents skip the flu shot for kids include a lack of awareness, absence of a healthcare provider recommendation, time constraints, cost, and safety concerns.A Family’s Call to ActionAs Millie thrives in her new life, her parents remain vocal about the importance of vaccination.“This growing hesitancy is driven by people struggling to tell the difference between facts and misinformation,” Mr Campbell said. “Most people spend more time on social media than listening to experts, but that’s not where you should be getting your health advice.”“Vaccination protects not just your child but the whole community.”

family urges flu vaccination after 8-year-old's near-fatal influenza b fight

Student Depression And Anxiety Goes Unevaluated - Why Is Mental Health Help Needed For Kids In School

student depression and anxiety goes unevaluated - why is mental health help needed for kids in school

Do Not Give Your Kids Smartphones Until They Are This Age – Study Discourages Early Smartphone Access

do not give your kids smartphones until they are this age – study discourages early smartphone access

FDA Panel Questions Antidepressant Safety For Pregnant Women; Can SSRIs Harm Unborn Babies?

fda panel questions antidepressant safety for pregnant women; can ssris harm unborn babies?

In an age of endless scrolling, instant likes, and constant comparison, the mental health of young people is taking a nosedive and fast. The rise in depression, anxiety, self-harm, suicide, and behavioural disorders has exploded in recent years, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, the real tragedy is often hidden behind filtered selfies and people who aren't paying attention.

Quoting the World Health Organisation, Dr. Monica Sood shares that one in seven adolescents between the ages of 10 and 19 globally suffers from a mental health problem. Suicide is the fourth most common cause of death among teens. In India, the numbers are no less harrowing—“a student kills themselves every hour,” says the National Crime Records Bureau.

This is a generation supposedly poised to “have it all”, but as Dr. Sood says, they’re instead buckling under immense pressure, from academic demands and the need for social validation to competition with peers, family expectations, and uncertainty about the future.

While awareness is slowly improving, Dr. Sood laments that “conversations about youth mental health are still clouded by stigma, cultural denial, and a lack of resources.” Therapy remains a luxury, school counselling is scarce, and what should be called burnout has been normalised as digital fatigue.

Dr. Sood argues that to truly address the crisis, we need to dig deeper. “We need to realise that the crisis is more than just schoolwork or screen time.” Instead, it’s the result of a complicated mesh of factors:

<ul><li>Unrealistic expectations from society: The pressure to be perfect in every way is, in Dr. Sood’s words, “a psychological war zone.”</li><li>Dysfunctional families: Emotional unavailability, abuse, neglect, and overcontrol can deeply harm a child’s sense of self.</li><li>Lack of emotional vocabulary: Many young people don’t have the words to express what they’re feeling. Instead, their pain shows up as anger, withdrawal, or substance abuse.</li><li>Unfiltered digital exposure: Curated lives on social media fuel jealousy, insecurity, and body image issues.</li><li>Loss of spiritual and community ties: “The feeling of being part of something bigger is fading,” warns Dr. Sood.</li></ul>

But all is not lost. Dr. Sood lays out a refreshingly bold and unconventional action plan for what she calls a mental health renaissance—one that starts in schools and ends in society-wide reform.

Mindfulness and Emotional Literacy in the Curriculum

Dr. Sood urges schools to teach children how to manage their emotions just as they teach math. Weekly lessons in emotional intelligence, stress management, and nonviolent communication should begin from Class 1. “Add art therapy, journaling, breathing exercises, and storytelling,” she suggests, to make these lessons stick.

Dr. Sood calls for a peer-led model of support—“Every school, college, and university should choose and train a few older students or peers to be ‘Empathy Ambassadors’.” These students should be trained to listen, maintain confidentiality, and support others in crisis. Sometimes, peer support can be more approachable than formal therapy.

“We fast for our bodies; we should fast for our minds too,” Dr. Sood says. She recommends monthly ‘silent days’ in schools and families—no screens, no judgements, just fun, creativity, and nature.

Beyond home and school, young people need judgement-free zones to simply exist. “Think of libraries, community centres, and parks as ‘mental sanctuaries’,” says Dr. Sood. These could host music corners, open mic nights, and wellness cafés.

Dr. Sood’s final suggestion marries ancient Indian wisdom with modern science—“Use Ayurvedic mind-body typing, psychometric tests, and AI-based behavioural tracking to make personalised mental health plans.” She envisions a future where technology aids rather than overwhelms, offering tailored, holistic mental health solutions.

youth crisis

mental health

anxiety

suicide

emotional literacy

digital detox

peer support

school pressure

holistic healing

In an age of endless scrolling, instant likes, and constant comparison, the mental health of young people is taking a nosedive and fast. The rise in depression, anxiety, self-harm, suicide, and behavioural disorders has exploded in recent years, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, the real tragedy is often hidden behind filtered selfies and people who aren't paying attention.Quoting the World Health Organisation, Dr. Monica Sood shares that one in seven adolescents between the ages of 10 and 19 globally suffers from a mental health problem. Suicide is the fourth most common cause of death among teens. In India, the numbers are no less harrowing—“a student kills themselves every hour,” says the National Crime Records Bureau.This is a generation supposedly poised to “have it all”, but as Dr. Sood says, they’re instead buckling under immense pressure, from academic demands and the need for social validation to competition with peers, family expectations, and uncertainty about the future.While awareness is slowly improving, Dr. Sood laments that “conversations about youth mental health are still clouded by stigma, cultural denial, and a lack of resources.” Therapy remains a luxury, school counselling is scarce, and what should be called burnout has been normalised as digital fatigue.The Root Causes Go Beyond ExamsDr. Sood argues that to truly address the crisis, we need to dig deeper. “We need to realise that the crisis is more than just schoolwork or screen time.” Instead, it’s the result of a complicated mesh of factors:Unrealistic expectations from society: The pressure to be perfect in every way is, in Dr. Sood’s words, “a psychological war zone.”Dysfunctional families: Emotional unavailability, abuse, neglect, and overcontrol can deeply harm a child’s sense of self.Lack of emotional vocabulary: Many young people don’t have the words to express what they’re feeling. Instead, their pain shows up as anger, withdrawal, or substance abuse.Unfiltered digital exposure: Curated lives on social media fuel jealousy, insecurity, and body image issues.Loss of spiritual and community ties: “The feeling of being part of something bigger is fading,” warns Dr. Sood.A Mental Health RenaissanceBut all is not lost. Dr. Sood lays out a refreshingly bold and unconventional action plan for what she calls a mental health renaissance—one that starts in schools and ends in society-wide reform.Mindfulness and Emotional Literacy in the CurriculumDr. Sood urges schools to teach children how to manage their emotions just as they teach math. Weekly lessons in emotional intelligence, stress management, and nonviolent communication should begin from Class 1. “Add art therapy, journaling, breathing exercises, and storytelling,” she suggests, to make these lessons stick.Empathy Ambassadors in Every InstitutionDr. Sood calls for a peer-led model of support—“Every school, college, and university should choose and train a few older students or peers to be ‘Empathy Ambassadors’.” These students should be trained to listen, maintain confidentiality, and support others in crisis. Sometimes, peer support can be more approachable than formal therapy.Digital Detox Sabbaticals“We fast for our bodies; we should fast for our minds too,” Dr. Sood says. She recommends monthly ‘silent days’ in schools and families—no screens, no judgements, just fun, creativity, and nature.Rebuilding Sacred Third SpacesBeyond home and school, young people need judgement-free zones to simply exist. “Think of libraries, community centres, and parks as ‘mental sanctuaries’,” says Dr. Sood. These could host music corners, open mic nights, and wellness cafés.Combining AI, Ayurveda, and PsychologyDr. Sood’s final suggestion marries ancient Indian wisdom with modern science—“Use Ayurvedic mind-body typing, psychometric tests, and AI-based behavioural tracking to make personalised mental health plans.” She envisions a future where technology aids rather than overwhelms, offering tailored, holistic mental health solutions.

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