Contemporary Mental Health Issues among Indian High School Students: Challenges and Protective Factors

Abstract

Mental health has emerged as one of the most significant public health concerns affecting adolescents worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries such as India. High school students experience a developmental period characterised by rapid biological, psychological, cognitive, emotional, and social changes that increase their susceptibility to mental health challenges. The increasing academic competition, examination pressure, parental expectations, peer influence, digital technology use, cyberbullying, social media exposure, body image dissatisfaction, substance use, sleep disturbances, and emotional instability collectively contribute to psychological distress among adolescents. This review paper critically examines the contemporary mental health landscape of high school students in India by synthesising empirical studies published between 2020 and 2026. It explores the prevalence, determinants, and consequences of common mental health problems, including stress, anxiety, depression, emotional disorders, behavioural problems, and suicidal ideation. The paper further discusses protective factors such as resilience, emotional intelligence, positive school climate, family support, life skills education, mindfulness, and school-based mental health interventions. Special emphasis is placed on preventive strategies aligned with the National Education Policy (2020), the National Mental Health Programme, and the World Health Organization's recommendations for promoting adolescent mental well-being. The review concludes by advocating a collaborative and holistic approach involving schools, parents, teachers, counsellors, healthcare professionals, and policymakers to establish mentally healthy educational environments that foster resilience, emotional competence, academic success, and overall well-being among Indian adolescents.