1. Causes of Child Anxiety and Depression in Kolkata
- Academic Pressure: Competitive school environments and pressure from parents to perform well in board exams or entrance tests.
- Urban Lifestyle: Lack of open spaces, safe recreational areas, and time for free play.
- Family Dynamics: Nuclear families, parental conflicts, or economic stress can contribute to emotional insecurity.
- Digital Overload: Excessive screen time, exposure to cyberbullying, and social media comparisons.
- COVID-19 Impact: Isolation, online schooling, and fear of illness during the pandemic have left lasting psychological effects.
2. Signs of Anxiety and Depression in Children
- Withdrawal from friends and family
- Changes in appetite or sleep
- Persistent sadness, crying spells
- Poor academic performance
- Physical complaints without medical cause (e.g., stomachaches, headaches)
- Irritability, aggression, or outbursts
3. Available Support in Kolkata
- Mental Health Professionals: Psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors in hospitals like:
- Institute of Psychiatry, Kolkata
- Apollo Gleneagles Hospital
- AMRI Hospitals
- Peerless Hospital
- NGOs & Organizations:
- Childline Kolkata (1098): Support for children in distress
- Lifeline Foundation: Offers counseling services
- Bani Mandir & Iswar Sankalpa: Work in community mental health
- School Counseling Programs: Some private schools now offer on-site counselors, though public schools often lack these services.
4. Steps Parents and Teachers Can Take
- Create a safe, open environment for children to talk about their feelings.
- Monitor for behavioral changes.
- Limit and supervise screen time.
- Encourage physical activity and social interaction.
- Seek professional help early—don’t wait for a crisis.
You can consult with Psychologist Sangeeta Roy for your Child counselling
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