Anok was the kind of person who could light up any room he walked into. At 27, he was known for his infectious laughter, sharp wit, and humor that could make anyone smile. His friends often said he was the life of every gathering, the one who brought everyone together. In college, he was the person people turned to for advice, jokes, or simply a good time. Socially active and well-loved, Anok seemed to have it all: charisma, popularity, and endless joy.
But one quiet morning, the world woke up to a devastating headline: "27-Year-Old Commits Suicide." The name in the article was Anok. For those who knew him, it was unimaginable. How could someone so full of life, so vibrant, take such a drastic step? His friends and family were in shock, struggling to comprehend what had happened.
The police confirmed it was suicide. They found a note in Anok’s handwriting, short but haunting: "I can’t fake it anymore." Those six words sent shockwaves through everyone who read them. The boy who seemed to have it all love, friendship, and a bright future was secretly battling a pain so deep that it consumed him.
Anok’s friends began to reflect on their memories with him. They recalled his jokes and laughter but also moments when his smile didn’t seem genuine or when he quietly withdrew from conversations. The signs were there, but his ability to hide his struggles made it easy to overlook them.
His family was heartbroken. Anok was the dependable one, the son who made them proud, the brother who could fix anything. Now, they were left questioning where they had gone wrong. The note he left offered no explanation, only a glimpse into the unbearable burden he had been carrying.
Depression is a global health crisis. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2023, about 5% of adults worldwide suffer from this condition. Women are disproportionately affected, but depression affects individuals of all demographics. Alarmingly, it is a leading cause of suicide.
Nepal is no exception. According to a 2022 analysis of the Nepal Demographic and Health Survey, 4% of Nepal’s population experiences depression. This highlights a pressing need for mental health resources, education, and support systems in the country. Raising awareness is vital to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health, encouraging people to seek help, and creating a compassionate society.
Depression and suicide among youth are silent crises, often going unnoticed until it is too late. Many young people struggle with feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and isolation, hiding their pain behind smiles. Depression can become an unbearable weight, and without support, it sometimes leads to tragic decisions.
The pressures of academics, relationships, financial struggles, and societal expectations often make youth vulnerable. Social media amplifies these feelings by encouraging constant comparisons to others’ curated lives, which can erode self-esteem and deepen loneliness. Bullying both online and in person further exacerbates these struggles, making young people feel trapped and helpless.
Breaking the stigma around mental health is essential. Open conversations, empathy, and access to professional help can save lives. Schools, colleges, and communities must create safe spaces where young people feel comfortable sharing their struggles without fear of judgment. Peer support groups, awareness campaigns, and mental health education can normalize seeking help and reduce feelings of isolation.
Youth need to know it is okay to ask for help, that they are not alone, and that their lives matter. Parents, teachers, and friends play a crucial role in recognizing warning signs, such as withdrawal, behavior changes, or expressions of hopelessness. Early intervention can make all the difference.
To every young person struggling in silence: You are seen, you are loved, and you are never alone. Life may feel overwhelming now, but brighter days are ahead. It’s never too late to reach out, ask for help, or take the first step toward healing. By fostering a supportive environment and ensuring access to mental health resources, we can prevent tragedies and empower young people to embrace a hopeful future. Together, we can ensure that no one feels left behind in their darkest moments.