Mental health crisis deepens in IIOJK as 40% adults face distress, youth hit hardest
Srinagar: Studies in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir suggest over 40% of adults in the Valley show signs of psychological distress, with students facing rising levels of anxiety, depression and stress.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the signs often go unnoticed in homes. A student becomes withdrawn, sleep patterns change, or conversations turn unusually short. “Mental health issues build slowly, and often in silence,” a Srinagar-based counselor said.
In many households, emotional distress is still expected to pass on its own.
Experts say time, distraction or faith offer comfort but are not always enough. Frequent cordon and search operations by Indian forces add pressure through disrupted sleep. Despite a steady rise in people reaching helplines, seeking counseling remains stigmatized.
Mental health workers say early support can prevent issues from becoming overwhelming.
“Sometimes, all it takes is someone at home listening without judgement,” a professional noted. Experts urged families to watch for behavioural shifts like withdrawal, irritability or loss of interest, and create safe spaces to speak.
“Mental health is not about weakness. It is about recognising when someone needs support,” they said.
