World Suicide Prevention Day 2026: Risk in young people and what parents can do | Exclusive

On World Suicide Prevention Day 2026, in an exclusive conversation with News9 Digital, a psychologist discusses suicide risk among young people, warning signs, emotional distress, social media pressures and how parents can offer timely support.

New Delhi: Young people today face a range of academic, social, emotional and digital pressures that can affect their mental wellbeing. Academic expectations, relationship difficulties, bullying, family conflict, loneliness and concerns about fitting in can become overwhelming, particularly when several challenges occur at the same time. Social media and cyberbullying can add to these pressures, while stigma around mental health may make it difficult for young people to speak about what they are experiencing.

Dr Archana Sharma, Senior Consultant, Psychology, Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute, Delhi, in an exclusive conversation with News9 Digital, explains the factors that can increase vulnerability among adolescents and young adults, warning signs parents and teachers should watch for, and how families, schools and digital platforms can strengthen suicide-prevention efforts. She also discusses how to approach conversations about suicidal thoughts, when professional help is needed and why early intervention matters.

Doctor on young people and suicide risk

Q: What factors are contributing to suicidal thoughts and emotional distress among young people?

Dr Archana: Multiple pressures related to education, career, relationship, bullying, family conflict, loneliness and concerns about fitting in. Social media can add to this through constant comparison and pressure to maintain a certain image. Depression, anxiety and other mental health difficulties can also make everyday challenges feel overwhelming. When several stressors occur together, young people may feel they have limited options or support. Creating safe, non-judgemental spaces where they can talk openly about their emotions is important for identifying distress early and connecting them with appropriate support.

Q: How the above mentioned factors affect suicide risk?

Dr Archana: Academic pressure may create fear of failure, while relationship difficulties can trigger feelings of rejection or loss. Bullying can damage self-esteem, and social isolation may leave young people without a reliable support system. Family conflict can also make it difficult to express their feelings. These factors do not........

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