"India’s Silent Crisis: Why Mental Health Education in Schools Can No Longer Wait"

Why India Needs Mental Health Education in Schools

Every 3 Minutes, a Life is Lost to Suicide in India

Imagine losing a loved one because they felt unheard, unseen, and unsupported. Every single day, 468 people die by suicide in India. That means 1.71 lakh lives are lost every year—and each number represents a real person, a grieving family, and a painful "what if?"

We are facing a silent pandemic—mental health issues affect millions, yet they remain ignored due to stigma and lack of awareness. Out of 150 million Indians who need mental health care, only 30 million receive it. The rest suffer in silence.

This is why we must act now.

Why Mental Health Education Must Be Mandatory

Mental health education in schools can change lives. If we teach children about their emotions and coping mechanisms early on, we can prevent future crises.

We are urging the Supreme Court of India to make mental health education a compulsory subject from 1st standard onwards. Why? Because a child’s brain develops crucial skills at an early age, and this is the perfect time to teach resilience, emotional intelligence, and self-awareness.

A future where mental health is a priority means:

• Children understand their emotions and develop coping skills.

• Families no longer suffer in silence due to untreated mental illness.

• Crime rates reduce because mental health issues are addressed early.

Studies show that 95% of crimes are linked to untreated mental health disorders. By educating children early, we can break this cycle.

The Numbers That Demand Change

• India’s suicide rate: 21.1 per 100,000 population (highest in the world - WHO)

• Economic impact: Mental health issues will cost India $1.03 trillion by 2030 (WHO)

• Treatment gap: 80% of those in need of mental health care never receive it (National Mental Health Survey)

These aren’t just numbers. They reflect a crisis that needs urgent attention.

How Your Voice Can Bring Change

We need 1 million signatures in 100 days to strengthen a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the Supreme Court.

Signing this petition isn’t just an act of support—it’s a powerful message that mental health matters.

Here’s how we can make a difference:

1. Strengthen the PIL: Show the Supreme Court that the people demand action.

2. Raise Awareness: Normalize conversations about mental health and break the stigma.

3. Drive a National Movement: Encourage educators, policymakers, and families to prioritize mental well-being.

Who’s Behind This Movement?

This campaign is supported by Middlemen.asia and Wedidit Foundation, organizations dedicated to legal aid, advocacy, and systemic reform. We have also published two books to raise awareness:

1. Public Interest Litigation: Power, Purpose, and People’s Rights – A deep dive into how PILs can bring social change, focusing on mental health education.

2. Misunderstood: A Guide to Mental Health – A book that fights the stigma and offers real solutions for mental well-being.

What We Aim to Achieve

1. Mandatory Mental Health Education: Give every child the tools to manage their emotions and stress.

2. Early Intervention: Prevent mental health issues from escalating into crises.

3. Lower Suicide Rates: Reduce unnecessary deaths and the suffering of families.

4. Stronger India: Position India as a global leader in mental health advocacy.

What You Can Do Today

1. Sign the Petition: Be one of the 1 million voices demanding change.

2. Share Widely: Spread awareness by sharing this petition with friends and family.

3. Join the Conversation: Read and share our books to educate yourself and others.

You Can Help Save Lives

This isn’t just about changing laws. It’s about saving lives, healing families, and building a healthier future for India. No child should feel alone. No family should suffer in silence. No life should be lost to mental illness.

Together, we can make mental health education a reality in India. Your voice matters. Your action matters. Let’s make history.