Addressing suicides and bullying

In recent weeks, there have been several tragic reports of teenage suicides, particularly among students attending international schools. These tragic incidents have once again drawn attention to the pervasive issues of bullying and the overwhelming psychological pressures facing young people today. 

The heartbreaking loss of young lives raises serious concerns about the resources available for mental health support, the harmful impact of bullying on those already vulnerable, and the critical need for accountability among those in positions of authority.

First and foremost, the inadequate resources for managing mental health challenges cannot be ignored. Sri Lanka has a long-standing gap in mental health infrastructure, particularly for young people. As a country that had undergone 30 years of armed conflict in the North and the East and witnessed two bouts of extreme violence in the South, it is safe to say we are collectively a nation with mental trauma. While the issue of mental health of the whole population should be a concern, those particularly vulnerable and young adults must be given urgent attention.

Many schools lack personnel, such as trained counsellors or psychologists, who are crucial in offering students the help they need to navigate emotional distress. This absence of support is even more concerning given the academic and social pressures students face today. The education system’s tendency to prioritise academic success over emotional well-being creates an environment where students are pressured to perform but are left without adequate support to manage the stress that comes with it.

Secondly, bullying remains a significant factor in the worsening mental health of teenagers, particularly those already grappling with psychological struggles. The stigma around mental health issues can lead to social exclusion, ridicule, and further alienation, turning schools—a place meant for learning and growth—into hostile environments. As recent incidents in an international school demonstrate, some prey on the vulnerable, even children.

It is vital to prioritise children’s mental health and well-being and to hold adults, teachers, and schools accountable for their role in creating supportive, safe learning spaces. This responsibility includes not only addressing bullying, whether by peers or adults, when it arises but also actively fostering a culture of empathy, support, and understanding within schools. Educational institutions must recognise that they have a duty of care to all students, and this extends beyond academic teaching to encompass emotional and social guidance. Teachers and administrators must receive training to identify signs of mental distress and bullying and respond effectively and compassionately.

To move forward, Sri Lanka must address these issues from multiple angles. More resources are needed for mental health support, including dedicated counsellors and regular mental health screenings in schools. Anti-bullying policies must be rigorously enforced, and schools should adopt clear, effective measures for reporting and dealing with bullying. Additionally, awareness campaigns that educate both students and adults on the importance of mental health are essential to dispel stigmas and create supportive school communities.

The recent tragedies are a sombre reminder that without significant, immediate changes, the lives and futures of many young people remain at risk. It is a call to action for everyone—from parents to educators, administrators to policymakers—to work together to create an environment where every child feels safe, supported, and valued.