The Ministry of Health has raised concerns over increasing mental stress among schoolchildren in Sri Lanka, attributing it to various social pressures.
Dr. Lakmini Nayana Magodaratne, Acting Director of the Directorate of Mental Health, cited findings from a 2024 school health survey. According to the data, 22.4% of children reported feeling lonely, 11.9% experienced sleep difficulties due to worry, 18% showed symptoms of depression, and 7.5% lacked close friends. Alarmingly, only 25% of children said they had someone to confide in, leaving 75% without emotional support.
Speaking at the Health Promotion Bureau, Dr. Magodaratne expressed concern over the high levels of pressure children are facing and noted that adults may also be struggling with similar stress.
Consultant Psychiatrist Dr. Sajeewana Amarasinghe from the National Institute of Mental Health added that Sri Lanka records approximately eight suicides per day. He explained that while the national suicide rate has decreased from 47 per 100,000 people in 1996 to around 15 per 100,000 now, the issue remains serious. He noted that only a fraction of suicides are reported by the media, a shift from past trends.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, support is available:
National Mental Health Helpline – 1926
Sumithrayo – +94 11 2 682535 / +94 11 2 682570
Lanka Life Line – 1375
CCCline – 1333 (Toll-free)
