In recent months, psychiatrist Dr. S. Janani has encountered a deeply troubling trend. “Four children between the ages of nine and 15 consulted me, all of whom were suicidal. A couple had even attempted suicide by overdosing on their grandparents’ medications,” she said. What unsettled her further was the children’s clarity. “They were very open about the fact that they didn’t want to live.”
Early Onset of Psychiatric Symptoms
Traditionally, major mental illnesses such as depression and schizophrenia surface between ages 14 and 18. However, psychiatrists now report symptoms in children as young as nine. Dr. Lakshmi Vijayakumar, psychiatrist and founder of suicide helpline SNEHA, described a nine-year-old boy with hypomanic episodes. He was restless in class, outspoken with teachers, and uninhibited in his remarks, even confronting neighbours about alcohol use.
As reported by TOI, teachers flagged his behaviour to his parents, who noticed the same at home. Yet, doctors hesitated to prescribe medication. “Many drugs have not been tested on children. We use them only when absolutely necessary,” Dr. Lakshmi explained.
Self-Harm at Younger Ages
Alongside mood disorders, psychiatrists report children under 12 engaging in self-harm using compasses, blades, and other sharp objects. “These behaviours, earlier seen in older adolescents, are now appearing in younger children. They are cries for help,” Dr. Janani observed.
Evidence from Recent Studies
Two major studies confirm this disturbing trend. A 2024 pooled analysis of national data published in Springer Nature found suicide rates among Indian children and adolescents have steadily risen over the past 26 years. Another 2024 study in Frontiers using Global Burden of Disease data showed that between 1992 and 2021, anxiety disorders in India rose by 113.3%. Notably, one peak occurred in the 10–14 age group, highlighting earlier onset.
Differing Views Among Experts
Medical experts remain divided on the reasons behind this surge. Some argue childhood depression has always existed but was underdiagnosed. Dr. Ennapadam Krishnamoorthy, neuropsychiatrist at Buddhi Clinic, recalled a 13-year-old patient with schizophrenia symptoms, including auditory hallucinations. “Bipolar disorder in adolescence is no longer uncommon,” he added.
At the same time, increased awareness has encouraged children to seek help. “Many even self-diagnose and push parents to consult psychiatrists. They say, ‘I told you this when I was 10, but you didn’t listen,’” Dr. Krishnamoorthy explained.
Mental Health Awareness: A Double-Edged Sword
Interestingly, some children embrace mental health language with ease. “They know terms I only learned in college,” Dr. Janani admitted. While this reflects openness and reduced stigma, Dr. Krishnamoorthy warned it sometimes borders on fashion. “Some come in convinced they have ADHD and feel disappointed when told otherwise.”
On the positive side, children are more empathetic toward peers. “They say things like, ‘My friend has anxiety, and that’s okay. It doesn’t make them very different,’” Dr. Janani noted. Schools are also stepping in, with counsellors working closely with students and families.
Triggers Behind Early Onset
Experts highlight several contributing factors:
- Social media and gaming addiction: For every extra hour online, anxiety and depression risks rise by 8–10%.
- Changing family structures: With fewer extended family members around, children lose emotional cushioning.
- High parental expectations: As first-generation earners of prosperity, parents often push children hard.
- Genetic predisposition: Family history of psychiatric illness accelerates onset.
- Early puberty: Hormonal changes overwhelm children ill-prepared to cope.
- Dysfunctional family environments: Substance abuse, absent parents, or conflicting parenting styles intensify stress.
- Environmental stressors: Some suggest climate change and chemical exposure may play a role, though evidence remains inconclusive.
The Way Forward
While stigma has declined in urban India, challenges persist. “Families and children still hesitate to seek help,” Dr. Janani said. “But the earlier we identify issues, the better the prognosis.”
Psychologist Mahesh Natarajan from InnerSight stressed the need for balance. “The challenge is ensuring that assessment leads to understanding rather than becoming a badge or excuse.”
Ultimately, timely recognition, compassionate support, and open conversations are key to addressing the growing mental health burden among India’s children and adolescents.