Experts Say Rights Violations And Hopelessness Fuel Adolescent Self-Harm

Experts discussed why some teenagers may feel so hopeless that they think about hurting themselves.

Jai Ranjan Ram said young people can feel trapped when adults control important choices in their lives.

These choices may include what they study or whom they marry.

He also said young people can lose faith in society when they are taught they have rights but cannot safely use them.

Unfairness, corruption and uncertainty can make this feeling worse.

Sabyasachi Mitra said young people are also worried about the difficult world older generations are leaving behind.

He said schools often praise success but do not teach enough about failure or resilience.

The meeting encouraged families and communities to notice warning signs and help people reach mental-health professionals early.