Student survey finds 9% reported suicidal thoughts, 15% distressed

A nationwide survey conducted by the National Task Force has found that a significant share of students are grappling with mental distress. According to the findings, 15 per cent of students reported feeling overwhelmed or distressed, while 9 per cent said they had experienced suicidal thoughts over the past six months.

The survey was carried out by the task force appointed by the Supreme Court, which is examining issues related to student well-being. The figures offer a broad snapshot of the emotional pressures faced by students across the country.

The task force is expected to submit its final report by October 31. The survey results come ahead of that submission and are likely to inform the panel's recommendations.

The findings underscore the scale of mental health concerns among students, with nearly one in ten reporting thoughts of self-harm. The data also indicates that a larger group is dealing with general feelings of being overwhelmed or distressed.

Further details are expected once the task force releases its final report later this month.