Familial discord, substance abuse, lack of social spaces driving teen suicides

THE recent series of unnatural deaths among teenagers across the state has placed the spotlight firmly back on unhealthy tendencies within the demographic.

- ABDUL NAZER M A @Kochi

THE recent series of unnatural deaths among teenagers across the state has placed the spotlight firmly back on unhealthy tendencies within the demographic. While it is virtually impossible to pinpoint the exact cause, most of the deaths have been linked to trauma or other psychological factors.

"These tendencies are most often seen in children studying in the eighth grade and above. Familial issues such as poor interpersonal relations, sparse communication within the family, lifestyle problems, and substance abuse contribute significantly to these tendencies," said Pranav, a Thiruvananthapuram-based psychologist who works with child protection cells of various NGOs.

Pranav pointed out that the lack of accessible social spaces, such as playgrounds, can also affect children's mental health. "The crowded atmosphere at cafeterias, especially in the evenings, reflects the public's and particularly children's need for comfortable and safe spaces for leisure," he added.