Patna: Suicide attempts among young people are rising at an alarming rate in Patna, with psychiatrists reporting a surge in cases linked to social media pressure, misinformation and growing mental health challenges. According to data from major government hospitals, the psychiatric outpatient departments of PMCH, IGIMS and AIIMS Patna are collectively receiving around 9–10 patients each day experiencing suicidal thoughts.
Over the past year, 1,619 patients were admitted across the three institutions, the majority of them adolescents, young adults and women. Doctors say the trend highlights an urgent need for awareness and preventive support at home, in schools and within society.
‘Unrealistic comparison is damaging mental strength’
Dr Manish Mandal, medical superintendent at IGIMS, said that constant online comparison, exposure to misleading information and pressure to meet unrealistic expectations are severely affecting young people’s mental resilience.
He urged families to take early behavioural signs seriously, adding that young people should be encouraged to build positive thinking habits and include activities such as yoga and exercise in their daily routines. “Society must respond with sensitivity rather than judgement,” he said.
PMCH reports the highest number of cases
PMCH recorded the highest admissions with 1,009 patients, followed by around 610 at IGIMS. Due to timely medical intervention, 85% of the patients survived and were provided counselling in psychiatric units.
A breakdown of hospital records shows that two-thirds of admitted individuals were under the age of 30. Among them, 289 were below 20, while 390 were between 20 and 30 years old.
Dr NP Singh, former head of psychiatry at PMCH, noted that academic pressure, career uncertainty and fear about the future are key drivers of depression among young people.
Senior psychiatrist Dr KK Singh at IGIMS said that excessive dependence on internet platforms and negative online content is intensifying feelings of hopelessness. He stressed the need for regular mental health counselling in schools, colleges and community spaces.
Warning signs families should not ignore
Doctors recommend seeking immediate help if young people exhibit any of the following behavioural, emotional or physical symptoms:
Behavioural changes
- Sudden withdrawal from family and friends
- Social isolation or staying locked in a room
- Not attending classes or losing focus in studies/work
- Declining performance or sudden drop in grades
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
- Giving away personal belongings
- Consuming harmful content online or searching suicide methods
- Self-harm such as cutting or burning
Emotional symptoms
- Persistent sadness or crying
- Irritability or aggression
- Low self-esteem and feelings of worthlessness
- Excessive guilt or fear of failure
- Verbalising suicidal thoughts
Physical signs
- Sleep disruption — sleeping too much or too little
- Eating disorders — loss of appetite or overeating
- Increased use of alcohol, drugs or tobacco
Mental health experts emphasise that early intervention and open communication can save lives. Support lines, counselling and community engagement, they say, must become central to tackling the crisis.
