Prioritising Mental Health: Reforming Our Education System

Abstract

In recent years, the growing number of student suicide cases has highlighted a troubling truth. An education system designed to support and inspire young people has, for many, turned into a source of intense pressure and emotional strain. Heavy academic demands, strict assessment practices, and constant competition have left students feeling ignored, restricted, and undervalued. This issue goes beyond academics; it represents a serious social and moral concern that requires immediate and sincere action. Mental health support is another area that cannot be neglected. Mental health awareness and suicide prevention campaigns, counselling centres, safe spaces, and guidance programs should be standard components of every school and university. Mental well-being should be treated with the same seriousness as academic performance. Ignoring students’ emotional struggles does not shield them from harm; it exacerbates the crisis. Proactive mental health measures can prevent tragedy and help students develop self-confidence, resilience, and hope for the future. Suicide rate reduction requires evaluating new approaches, like electronic health record–derived algorithms, internet-based screening methods, and ketamine’s potential benefit for preventing attempts, and passive monitoring of acute suicide risk change. For societies grounded in Islamic principles, the solution lies not only in policy but also in values. Islam emphasizes the sanctity of life, compassion for the vulnerable, and ethical responsibility toward others. The teachings of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ highlight the importance of patience, kindness, and moral guidance, especially toward the young population. Ultimately, combating the rising suicide attempts requires courage, awareness, and accountability. It requires protecting efficient and experienced teachers, removing toxic authorities, prioritizing mental health, fostering empathy, and grounding education in strong ethical values. Schools and universities must become spaces where students feel safe, supported, and empowered to grow, not merely survive.