Health and Me

Ishita Roy

Rene Kirby, Actor, Gymnast, And Skier Born with Spina Bifida, Dies At 70; What Is This Birth Disorder?

Rene Kirby, a man who lived life on his own terms despite being born with a severe form of spina bifida, died on July 11 at the University of Vermont Medical Center. He was 70.

Kirby, known for his vibrant personality, iron will, and roles in films like Shallow Hal, passed away after two months of hospitalization due to infections and complications related to his esophagus, kidneys, and bladder, according to his brother, Jon Kirby.

Born with more than a foot of his lower spine missing and a spine detached from his pelvis, Rene never developed legs that could bear weight. He couldn’t bend his knees and was, as his brother described, “L-shaped.” Yet Rene never saw himself as disabled.

“Walking on my hands is just all I’ve ever known,” he once said. “I’ve never thought of myself as disabled.”

Rene walked on his hands, skied, canoed, remodeled houses, and won state-level gymnastics competitions in high school. He navigated Burlington on a three-wheeled, hand-cranked bike built for him when he was 10. That bike served him for the rest of his life.

His mother rejected conventional medical approaches, such as braces or leg-stretching instruments, instead fostering independence from infancy. At nine months old, she placed his bottle just out of reach so he would learn to crawl using his arms. By age one, he was walking on his hands.

In a 2008 Stuck in Vermont interview, he famously said he couldn’t stand self-pity. “Life’s too short to be doing that,” he remarked. He proudly called himself “a gimp without a wimp.”

Kirby’s charm caught the attention of Hollywood director Peter Farrelly in 1999 during a chance meeting at a Burlington bar. Farrelly, in town filming Me, Myself &amp; Irene, was instantly taken by Kirby’s humor and charisma. He later wrote a part specifically for him in Shallow Hal (2001), a film about seeing beyond physical appearances.

Kirby danced with Gwyneth Paltrow on crutches and shared scenes with Jack Black and Jason Alexander. “He epitomizes inner beauty,” Farrelly said at the time. Kirby also had a small role in the 2003 movie Stuck on You and appeared in an episode of HBO’s Carnivàle.

Despite his Hollywood stint, he remained grounded in Vermont. He worked at IBM for 20 years and enjoyed stock trading in recent years. He and his brother remodeled homes together, laying tile, installing insulation, and handling carpentry.

Kirby was born with a severe form of spina bifida, a congenital condition where the spinal column fails to close completely during early pregnancy. In his case, it caused major deformities: undeveloped legs, a spine detached from the pelvis, and significant nerve damage.

Spina bifida is one of several neural tube defects and ranges in severity. Some people experience minimal symptoms, while others, like Kirby, face profound physical challenges. It often leads to complications with the bladder, kidneys, and other organs—as seen in the final months of Kirby’s life.

According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, people with spina bifida often live long lives, but with a wide range of medical needs and physical limitations. There is no cure, but with proper care and a strong support system, many lead fulfilling lives.

Kirby exemplified this possibility, surpassing what medical textbooks might have predicted for someone with his condition. He even beat throat cancer, though he lost his voice in the process.

What Kept him going? His motto, “You don’t have to stand up to stand out,” echoed the spirit he brought to every challenge.

The exact cause of spina bifida remains unknown, but researchers believe it's the result of a combination of genetic, nutritional, and environmental factors. One of the most well-known risk factors is a deficiency in folic acid (vitamin B9) during early pregnancy. This is why doctors advise women who are pregnant or planning to conceive to take folic acid supplements. Other risk factors include poorly controlled diabetes in the mother, the use of certain anti-seizure medications, and a family history of neural tube defects.

There are four main types of spina bifida, ranging from mild to severe:

Spina Bifida Occulta: The mildest and most common form, often called "hidden" spina bifida. It usually causes no symptoms and may go unnoticed.

Closed Neural Tube Defects: These involve abnormalities of the spinal cord’s fat, bone, or membranes and can result in few or no symptoms, but sometimes lead to muscle weakness or bladder issues.

Meningocele: In this form, a sac of fluid protrudes through an opening in the baby’s back, but it does not contain the spinal cord. Surgical treatment is often successful.

Myelomeningocele: The most severe form, where the spinal cord and nerves develop outside the baby’s body and are contained in a sac. It typically causes paralysis and other serious disabilities.

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Rene Kirby, a man who lived life on his own terms despite being born with a severe form of spina bifida, died on July 11 at the University of Vermont Medical Center. He was 70.Kirby, known for his vibrant personality, iron will, and roles in films like Shallow Hal, passed away after two months of hospitalization due to infections and complications related to his esophagus, kidneys, and bladder, according to his brother, Jon Kirby.Born with more than a foot of his lower spine missing and a spine detached from his pelvis, Rene never developed legs that could bear weight. He couldn’t bend his knees and was, as his brother described, “L-shaped.” Yet Rene never saw himself as disabled.“Walking on my hands is just all I’ve ever known,” he once said. “I’ve never thought of myself as disabled.”A Life of Movement Without LegsRene walked on his hands, skied, canoed, remodeled houses, and won state-level gymnastics competitions in high school. He navigated Burlington on a three-wheeled, hand-cranked bike built for him when he was 10. That bike served him for the rest of his life.His mother rejected conventional medical approaches, such as braces or leg-stretching instruments, instead fostering independence from infancy. At nine months old, she placed his bottle just out of reach so he would learn to crawl using his arms. By age one, he was walking on his hands.In a 2008 Stuck in Vermont interview, he famously said he couldn’t stand self-pity. “Life’s too short to be doing that,” he remarked. He proudly called himself “a gimp without a wimp.”Hollywood Came CallingKirby’s charm caught the attention of Hollywood director Peter Farrelly in 1999 during a chance meeting at a Burlington bar. Farrelly, in town filming Me, Myself & Irene, was instantly taken by Kirby’s humor and charisma. He later wrote a part specifically for him in Shallow Hal (2001), a film about seeing beyond physical appearances.Kirby danced with Gwyneth Paltrow on crutches and shared scenes with Jack Black and Jason Alexander. “He epitomizes inner beauty,” Farrelly said at the time. Kirby also had a small role in the 2003 movie Stuck on You and appeared in an episode of HBO’s Carnivàle.Despite his Hollywood stint, he remained grounded in Vermont. He worked at IBM for 20 years and enjoyed stock trading in recent years. He and his brother remodeled homes together, laying tile, installing insulation, and handling carpentry.Living with Spina BifidaKirby was born with a severe form of spina bifida, a congenital condition where the spinal column fails to close completely during early pregnancy. In his case, it caused major deformities: undeveloped legs, a spine detached from the pelvis, and significant nerve damage.Spina bifida is one of several neural tube defects and ranges in severity. Some people experience minimal symptoms, while others, like Kirby, face profound physical challenges. It often leads to complications with the bladder, kidneys, and other organs—as seen in the final months of Kirby’s life.According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, people with spina bifida often live long lives, but with a wide range of medical needs and physical limitations. There is no cure, but with proper care and a strong support system, many lead fulfilling lives.Kirby exemplified this possibility, surpassing what medical textbooks might have predicted for someone with his condition. He even beat throat cancer, though he lost his voice in the process.What Kept him going? His motto, “You don’t have to stand up to stand out,” echoed the spirit he brought to every challenge.What Causes Spina Bifida?The exact cause of spina bifida remains unknown, but researchers believe it's the result of a combination of genetic, nutritional, and environmental factors. One of the most well-known risk factors is a deficiency in folic acid (vitamin B9) during early pregnancy. This is why doctors advise women who are pregnant or planning to conceive to take folic acid supplements. Other risk factors include poorly controlled diabetes in the mother, the use of certain anti-seizure medications, and a family history of neural tube defects.Different Types of Spina BifidaThere are four main types of spina bifida, ranging from mild to severe:Spina Bifida Occulta: The mildest and most common form, often called "hidden" spina bifida. It usually causes no symptoms and may go unnoticed.Closed Neural Tube Defects: These involve abnormalities of the spinal cord’s fat, bone, or membranes and can result in few or no symptoms, but sometimes lead to muscle weakness or bladder issues.Meningocele: In this form, a sac of fluid protrudes through an opening in the baby’s back, but it does not contain the spinal cord. Surgical treatment is often successful.Myelomeningocele: The most severe form, where the spinal cord and nerves develop outside the baby’s body and are contained in a sac. It typically causes paralysis and other serious disabilities.

rene kirby, actor, gymnast, and skier born with spina bifida, dies at 70; what is this birth disorder?

Supriya Ramesh

Credits: Canva

Parenting

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

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World IVF Day 2025: History, Theme, And Significance

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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?

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.”

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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.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

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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.

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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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