14–17 years
Adolescence
Exams, friendships, first relationships and questions about the future can all press in at the same time. Feeling stressed sometimes is part of growing up. Feeling stuck, hopeless or unsafe is a reason to reach out.
Written for: Young people, parents and teachers. All age pathways
What someone might experience
These are common, not certain. Many people go through some of them and are fine.
- Depression and anxiety
- Stress about exams and performance
- Suicidal thoughts and self-harm
- Eating difficulties and distress about body image
- Substance use
- Unhealthy patterns of phone and internet use
- Relationship distress
- Stress related to sexual or gender identity
- Effects of trauma
- Difficulty managing emotions and behaviour
- Effects of neglect, abuse or exposure to violence
Signs you might notice
A card to keep or share. These are signs to notice and talk about, not a diagnosis. Adolescence, 14–17 years.
- Feeling hopeless for a long time
- Panic attacks
- Falling attendance or marks
- Sleeping in the day and staying awake at night
- Using alcohol or drugs
- Isolating from others
- Self-harm
- Taking risks that are out of character
- A sudden change in behaviour
- Saying they are a burden, or that they don't want to live
If several of these are present, or they are getting worse, speak to a doctor, counsellor or one of the services below. If someone may be in danger, call 112.
What shapes this in India
Not everything is about the person. Their surroundings matter a great deal.
- Board exams, entrance tests and coaching pressure
- Uncertainty about careers
- Parental expectations
- Families worrying about unemployment
- Online harassment and sextortion
- Sexual violence
- Restrictions on movement and independence
- Stigma based on caste, religion, gender and sexuality
- Child marriage and exploitation
What can help
- Accessible counselling at school and in the community
- A response plan for suicide risk, including a personal safety plan
- Evidence-based therapy and clinical referral when needed
- Life skills and career guidance
- Comprehensive sexuality education
- Prevention of substance use
- Family involvement that does not shame the young person
Important to know
Suicidal intent, a plan, a recent attempt, or being unable to stay safe needs urgent in-person emergency assessment. In India, call 112. Do not promise secrecy when someone's safety is at risk.
SAATHI cannot diagnose. Faith, prayer and traditional healers are part of many families' lives, and can sit alongside care. If something is affecting daily life, please also see a doctor or counsellor.
If you're a parent, teacher or family member
- Separate the person from the result. Let them know your love does not depend on marks or ranks.
- If they are being threatened with images online, reassure them it is not their fault and help them report it. Do not pay or negotiate.
- If you are worried about suicide, ask clearly: 'Are you thinking about ending your life?' Then listen, stay with them and get help.
- Keep medicines and other means of harm out of easy reach during difficult periods.
Who to ask near you
You do not have to work this out alone. These are real services in India. Availability varies by district, so a call or a visit is the best way to check.
- A school counsellor or a teacher you trust. Many schools have one person children can talk to.
- A Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK) adolescent clinic, also called an Adolescent Friendly Health Clinic, at a health centre or district hospital.
- Your family doctor or the doctor at the PHC, CHC or district hospital.
- Childline 1098, free, for any child who is unsafe or any adult worried about a child. The District Child Protection Unit and Child Welfare Committee act on cases of abuse.
Helplines, free in India
- 112Emergency Response Support System Police, fire and ambulance. Call if someone is in immediate danger.
- 14416Tele-MANAS Free national mental health support, 24 hours, in many Indian languages. Also 1-800-891-4416.
- 181Women Helpline Support and referral for women facing violence, 24 hours.
- 1098Childline For children in need of care and protection, or adults worried about a child.
- 14567Elderline National helpline for senior citizens.