Speakers - WNRC2025

Abstract

Enhancing Mental Health Well-Being and Awareness Among Adolescents in NEPAL
Adolescence is a critical period for mental health development, where the foundations for emotional well-being and resilience are established. Mental health awareness programs play a vital role in equipping adolescents with the knowledge and skills needed to manage stress, build resilience, and maintain healthy relationships. In a country like Nepal, which falls under LMIC(Low- and Middle-Income Countries, the need for mental health services is particularly pressing. WHO data reveals that between 76% and 85% of people with mental health conditions in these regions receive no treatment. And counseling. This alarming gap highlights the critical importance of community-driven mental health well-being and awareness campaigns. By raising awareness and reducing stigma, communities can ensure that adolescents have access to the support they need to thrive.
Prevalence of Mental Health Issues in low and middle-income countries like Nepal
Recent studies indicate that approximately 20-25% of adolescents in Nepal experience some form of mental health issue, including depression, anxiety, and stress-related disorders. A study conducted by UNICEF in 2021 found that 13% of adolescents aged 10-19 in Nepal reported feeling depressed, and 8% had seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year. Adolescents in Nepal face significant mental health challenges driven by socio-economic pressures, educational stress, the impact of natural disasters, and cultural stigma. Poverty, unemployment, and a competitive education system contribute to heightened anxiety and stress among young people. 
Access to mental health services in Nepal is severely limited, with only 0.36 psychiatrists and 0.06 psychologists per 100,000 people, leading to a significant treatment gap. Less. Suicide is a leading cause of death among Nepali adolescents, with a rate of 9 per 100,000 in the 15-19 age group. Factors such as academic pressure, family conflicts, broken families, and socioeconomic hardships are major contributors to this high suicide rate. Addressing these challenges requires comprehensive mental health interventions, increased awareness, and better access to mental health services.
The student suicide rate has been increasing over the years, though comprehensive data is limited. However, recent news articles frequently highlight these tragic cases, drawing attention to the growing concern. In conclusion, raising mental health awareness among adolescents in LMICs is essential for early detection of mental health issues, reducing stigma, and providing the necessary support to foster resilience and well-being.
Rural Health Education Service Trust (RHEST) is an organization that is working with adolescents and school teachers to raise awareness about mental health well-being and awareness. Till now, 250 teachers ( in two years) from 30 schools have been given training on Mental health awareness, and results have shown that the training has helped teachers recognize the problem among students. REHST will continue to work with teachers and adolescents and raise the issue through mass media.