Parents want mental health counselling be made mandatory in schools
Team L&M
The findings of a Pan-India survey conducted by mental health platform LISSUN to examine parental awareness toward children’s mental health shows parents deep concern over it. A striking 68 per cent of parents believe that schools must introduce mandatory, regular counselling sessions at an early age to ensure children’s safe and managed emotional and mental development. The study was conducted across urban and semi-urban regions. It sheds light on the growing concern of parents about their children’s psychological wellbeing in an increasingly digital and high-pressure environment.
One of the most concerning takeaways from the survey is that 48 per cent of parents feel neutral or unsure about identifying signs of mental illness in their children. The findings indicate a critical gap in parental awareness. It highlights the need for proactive mental and emotional health education and support structures.
When asked about the most prominent causes affecting children’s mental and emotional wellbeing, social media and peer pressure topped the list for 35.8 per cent of parents. This was followed by academic pressure (27.4 per cent ), bullying (20.8 per cent ), and family-related stress (11.3 per cent ). Additionally, reveals that depression, ADHD, and learning disabilities, are notably impacting children.
Parents lack awareness
Commenting on the survey, Dr. Krishna Veer Singh, Co-founder and CEO of LISSUN, said, “The study reveals some alarming data on lack of awareness amongst parents about identifying and dealing with mental health challenges. It spotlights a pressing need to integrate mental health support within educational ecosystems. Children today are exposed to unprecedented levels of digital exposure, academic demands, & social comparison. Yet, many parents remain under-equipped to spot early warning signs of mental distress. It is essential that schools become active partners in mental and emotional wellness. They can do this by addressing the needs and running sensitization programs for students and parents. We believe that mental and emotional health is as foundational as physical health. Further, early intervention is the key to long-term emotional resilience and academic success.”
The study also shows that 27.4 per cent of parents want schools to appoint dedicated counselors. Further, 25.5 per cent parents advocate for regular mental health awareness programs for students. Also, workshops for parents and stress management activities for children were suggested by 20.8 per cent of respondents each. This reinforces the belief that a collective, community-based approach is vital. Alarmingly, approx. 40 per cent of parents rarely talk to their kids about their mental and emotional wellbeing.
Moreover, the survey reveals that 48.1 per cent of parents believe their children spend excessive time on screens.Many turn to online sources for mental health guidance. While the internet serves as a readily available resource, it also presents the risk of misinformation. This, in turn, reinforces the importance of professional, institutional, and expert-led interventions.
