55% of Students in Bangladesh Suffer from Depression: Survey Findings

Darwin, August 31 — The beginning of university life is usually painted in dreams, freedom, and new possibilities. However, the reality is very different. More than half of the students in Bangladesh’s universities are currently suffering from depression and various mental health issues.

This information has been shared by the private organization Anchal Foundation.

On Saturday, the organization held an online press conference titled “Mental Health of University Students Affected by Discrimination”, where the survey results revealed this concerning picture.

The survey was conducted by the organization following the 2024 anti-discrimination student movement, aiming to understand the true state of discrimination in educational institutions. Between March and May of this year, the foundation collected feedback and experiences from university students through online forms.

Experiences of Discrimination

The survey found that students face various types of discrimination. Some experience gender-based discrimination, while others face discrimination due to religion, economic status, political views, physical appearance, or ethnicity. Some students with physical disabilities also reported being discriminated against.

This discrimination mostly occurs in university classrooms. It also takes place in student hangouts, halls or dormitories, university events, and even on transportation. Social media, too, has become an unsafe space where both men and women face discrimination.

Who is Perpetrating the Discrimination?

Most students reported that their peers are the ones who engage in discriminatory behavior. Besides students, teachers, university administration, and even third- and fourth-class staff have been reported as perpetrators of discrimination.

Mental Health Impact

Such experiences are having a severe impact on students’ mental health.

Many of the students who participated in the survey mentioned that they suffer from depression, anxiety, loneliness, and low self-esteem. Some have developed sleep issues, while others are prone to panic attacks.

As a result of these mental health struggles, it has become challenging for students to concentrate on their studies. Some are even unable to attend classes regularly.

Reluctance Towards Mental Health Support

Despite facing mental health issues, most students have not sought any kind of medical treatment or counseling. They say they are unaware of where to find such services. Moreover, social taboos and embarrassment prevent many from seeking help. For some, financial constraints have also been a significant barrier. Only a few students have received counseling or therapy, and while their experiences were positive, the number remains very low.

Lack of Mental Health Services at Universities

Students surveyed have pointed out that their universities lack sufficient mental health services. Although a few institutions stand out, the majority of educational establishments in the country have a noticeable shortage of such support.

Anchol Foundation’s Proposals

In the press conference, Anchol Foundation proposed seven recommendations to safeguard students’ mental health. These include:

• Ensuring mentoring by mental health professionals at every university.

• Conducting mental health checks for students every six months.

• Establishing monitoring teams to prevent discrimination and harassment, alongside strict law enforcement.

• Setting up complaint boxes and separate complaint cells for female students.

• Strengthening relationships between students and teachers.

• Launching career counseling centers.

• Ensuring easily accessible mental health services at all educational institutions.

The press conference featured speeches by Tansen Roz, Founder of Anchol Foundation, Sibtullah Sibhga, Executive Editor of Perspective, and communication expert Mohammad Sohel Mamun.