Silent Battles: Depression, Suicide, and the Quest for Hope in Europe Among Kerala's Youth

 "The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall." – Nelson Mandela

Nelson Mandela's words highlight the resilience of the human spirit, a quality that many young people in Kerala desperately need as they face mounting pressures. Kerala, known for its educational achievements and health indicators, is grappling with an alarming rise in depression, suicide rates, and the migration of its youth to Europe. While Kerala is often seen as a progressive state in terms of literacy and social development, the struggles of its younger generation are increasingly hidden behind the outward success of its society. These young minds, burdened by emotional turmoil and societal pressures, find themselves caught in a battle for survival, both emotionally and mentally.

The pressure to succeed in academics and secure a good job has become overwhelming for the youth in Kerala. Expectations from families and society to excel in education and secure well-paying jobs often collide with the realities of an oversaturated job market and limited career prospects. This disconnect between dreams and reality has a severe emotional toll on young people, leading many to experience anxiety, self-doubt, and depression. The emotional struggles, however, are seldom addressed, and mental health is still a taboo subject in many parts of Kerala. This leaves young people to silently battle their inner demons without proper support or guidance.

Kerala has one of the highest suicide rates in India, with young people forming a significant portion of those who end their lives. While reasons for suicide are multifaceted, including family issues, financial stress, and academic pressure, the mental health crisis is at the core. The lack of adequate mental health care and the stigma surrounding mental illnesses have compounded the problem. For many young individuals, there is a sense of hopelessness that leads them to see suicide as the only escape from their pain. The pressure to meet societal expectations, combined with the absence of emotional support, often becomes unbearable, pushing them into the depths of depression and despair.

In response to these challenges, a significant number of Kerala's youth are choosing to migrate, particularly to European countries, in search of a better life. Migration is seen as a solution to both economic struggles and emotional pain. Europe offers better career prospects, higher living standards, and the promise of a fresh start. However, migration is not without its emotional cost. Many young people who move abroad find themselves isolated and alienated in a foreign culture. The absence of family and friends, coupled with the challenges of adjusting to a new environment, can amplify feelings of loneliness and depression. Migration, in many cases, becomes a temporary escape from the pressures they face back home, but it doesn’t necessarily resolve the underlying emotional issues. Instead, it often exacerbates them, leading to a vicious cycle of isolation and despair.

Meanwhile, those who remain behind in Kerala face their own set of challenges. The emotional toll of seeing loved ones leave for foreign lands is significant, and families often experience a sense of emptiness. The reliance on technology to stay connected can sometimes worsen the emotional disconnect, leaving both migrants and their families struggling with feelings of loneliness.

The rising suicide rates, the increasing migration, and the underlying mental health crisis among Kerala's youth are alarming and demand immediate attention. There is an urgent need for mental health awareness, counseling services, and support systems that can help young people navigate the challenges they face. Kerala must invest in reducing the stigma around mental illness, providing adequate emotional support, and ensuring that youth are equipped with the tools to cope with the pressures of modern life.

In conclusion, while Kerala’s youth are striving to live up to the ideals of success and happiness, it is essential that the state focuses not only on their educational and economic well-being but also on their emotional health. By addressing the underlying causes of depression and suicide, offering mental health support, and ensuring that migration is not seen as the only option, Kerala can nurture a generation that is resilient, hopeful, and capable of realizing their dreams.

Irshad. A, Assistant Professor of Computer Science, Al Shifa College of Arts and Science, Kizhattoor, Perinthalmanna