18–24 years
Young adulthood
Moving to college, a hostel, a new city or a first job brings freedom and new pressures together. Many people feel lonely or lost during this time, even when life looks fine from the outside.
Written for: Young adults, teachers and parents. All age pathways
What someone might experience
These are common, not certain. Many people go through some of them and are fine.
- Depression, anxiety and panic
- Difficulty adjusting to new places and roles
- Loneliness
- Questions about identity and relationships
- Substance use
- Disrupted sleep
- Concerns related to eating
- Effects of trauma
- First signs of psychosis or bipolar disorder may appear at this age
- Self-harm and suicide risk
- 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. Young adulthood, 18–24 years.
- Losing interest in things you used to enjoy
- Worry that won't switch off
- Missing classes or work
- Isolating from others
- Disrupted sleep
- Drinking or using drugs more and more
- Finding it hard to manage daily life
- Unusual beliefs or experiences others don't share
- Big changes in mood or energy
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.
- Moving to college, adjusting to hostel life and missing home
- Competitive examinations
- Being out of education, work or training for a long stretch
- Uncertainty in the job market
- Migrating away from home
- Financial dependence or debt
- Questions of relationships and consent
- Discrimination
- Comparing yourself to others online
What can help
- Campus mental health services
- Supervised peer support
- Confidential counselling
- Clear crisis and referral pathways
- Support moving from study to work
- Help with money and accommodation
- Substance-use screening and early clinical assessment
Important to know
Some stress is expected during big transitions. Distress that lasts and gets in the way of daily life deserves support. New experiences of hearing or seeing things others don't, or very high mood and energy, need prompt specialist assessment.
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
- Check in regularly, even briefly. A short call can make a hostel room feel less isolated.
- Ask about sleep, food and friends, not only marks and placements.
- Help them find the campus counsellor or a local service before a crisis, not during one.
- If you notice unusual beliefs or extreme mood changes, encourage a medical assessment without arguing about the beliefs.
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.
- The campus counselling cell, or a warden, mentor or faculty member you trust, if you are in college or a hostel.
- Tele-MANAS on 14416, free and confidential, in many Indian languages, if you cannot go out or do not want to be overheard at home.
- The doctor at the PHC, CHC or district hospital, or a trusted family doctor.
- A friend, an older cousin or a sibling. One person who knows is often enough to begin.
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.