Mohammad Rakib Hossain
In 2024, Bangladesh is witnessing an alarming rise in mental health struggle among its youths, with a mounting number of young people facing anxiety, depression and other mental health disorders. The academic pressure, economic instability, social media and societal expectation have led to a silent but severe crisis. Stigma remains a powerful barrier to care despite increased awareness of mental health issues, preventing many young people from seeking the help they urgently need. This is not just an individual challenge—it is a general concern that requires immediate and coordinated action.
Statistics highlight the gravity of the situation. The Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS) reports that, as of 2024, around 22 percent of youths aged 15 to 24 are experiencing mental health issues—a severe increase from 18 percent in 2022. A study by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) reveals that 10 percent of youths are clinically depressed, with 15 percent suffering from chronic anxiety. The youth suicide rates has also surged, with the Bangladesh Police reporting a 12 percent increase in student suicides over the past year, driven by factors such as academic pressure and job insecurity. These data expose a deep sense of despair and isolation among youths, making it clear that mental health support is urgently needed.
The country’s education system places massive emphasis on academic achievement, with students vying for top grades and admission to prestigious institutions. This focus on performance creates intense stress, which has only increased in recent years. According to a survey by BRAC University, 65 percent of high school students reported experiencing high levels of stress due to academic demands, up from 60 percent in 2023. Students are under constant pressure to excel in exams, secure scholarships, and meet family expectations. As a result, many suffer in silence, as seeking support for mental health issues is often stigmatized and seen as a sign of weakness.
For university students, the situation is equally dire. The NIMH reports that 25 percent of students experience burnout, with another 16 percent struggling with severe anxiety. The competitive environment discourages students from discussing their mental health concerns, as they fear judgment or criticism. This culture of silence exacerbates the crisis, leaving many students feeling unsupported and unprepared for the demands of academic and professional life.
The economic realities facing youths in Bangladesh add another layer of pressure. Youth unemployment has risen to 12.3 percent in 2024, according to the International Labour Organization (ILO), up from 11.6 percent in 2023. For recent graduates, the lack of job opportunities leads to frustration and hopelessness. Furthermore, underemployment is a significant issue, with a 2024 study by the Center for Policy Dialogue (CPD) revealing that 20 percent of young professionals are in positions that do not match their qualification, leading to disappointment and diminished self-worth.
The escalating cost of living, particularly in urban areas, further strains youths’ mental health. Many struggle to attain financial stability, balancing societal and familial expectations with limited economic prospects. This persistent financial pressure leaves many youths feeling inadequate and anxious regarding their future, heightening their risk of mental health issues.
Social media has become a pervasive part of life for youths, but its impact is not wholly positive. Platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and TikTok offer entertainment and connection, yet they also encourage a culture of comparison that affects self-esteem. In a survey by Dhaka University, 40 percent of youths reported that social media negatively impacted their self-worth, an increase from 35 percent in 2023. The pressure to present an idealized image online and compare oneself to others’ seemingly perfect lives fosters feelings of inadequacy and loneliness.
Furthermore, social media addiction is a mounting concern. The Bangladesh Association of Psychiatrists reports that about 30 percent of youths now spend over four hours a day on social media, exhibiting symptoms of addiction like withdrawal, mood swings and difficulty focusing. This extreme use of social media, often driven by unrealistic portrayals of success, contributes to heightened levels of anxiety and depression among young users.
Despite the worsening crisis, stigma remains a formidable barrier to seeking help. Mental health issues are often viewed as personal failings, discouraging open discussions and treatment. A study by the World Health Organization (WHO) found that only 15 percent of people experiencing mental health issues in Bangladesh pursue professional support, largely due to the fear of social judgment and family disapproval.
The lack of available resources compounds this problem. Bangladesh has fewer than 600 trained psychiatrists and psychologists to serve people, according to the Ministry of Health. This shortage is particularly severe in rural areas, where many people turn to unqualified traditional healers for help. Moreover, the funding for mental health care remains inadequate, with less than 0.5 percent of the national health budget allocated to mental health services in 2024. These factors limit access to care, especially for those who need it most.
The mental health crisis among Bangladesh’s youth demands a comprehensive response from government, educational institutions, and society. First and foremost, the government must allocate more funds to mental health services. Training and employing more mental health professionals—especially in underserved rural areas—would be a critical step forward. While the Ministry of Health aims to train 1,500 additional mental health professionals by 2026, this goal must be expanded and accelerated to meet the growing demand.
Educational institutions can also play a pivotal role in supporting mental well-being. Schools and universities should incorporate mental health education into their curricula, focusing not only on academic achievement but on the personal development and mental health of students. Additionally, access to counseling services and peer support programs must be expanded. A more balanced approach to education that values students’ mental health will create an environment where young people feel safe seeking help.
Workplaces also have a responsibility to foster mental well-being among young professionals. Companies should implement flexible work policies, mental health support initiatives, and stress-reduction programs to alleviate the pressures many young employees face. Addressing job insecurity and promoting a healthy work-life balance are essential for creating a mentally resilient workforce.
Bangladesh’s youths face a mental health crisis of unprecedented scale, driven by academic pressures, economic insecurity, and social media influences. The lack of mental health resources, compounded by persistent stigma, exacerbates their struggles. This is not a challenge that can be ignored; it is a call for immediate, collective action at all levels of society. By investing in the mental health of youths, the country may empower its youths to lead fulfilling, healthy lives and contribute to a stronger, more resilient nation.
Mohammad Rakib Hossain, a Lecturer at Journalism, Communication and Media studies in Varendra University, Rajshahi, can be reached at rakibrumcj@gmail.com
