The National Medical Commission (NMC) has taken a step forward to tackle the rise of mental health issues among medical students in the country. NMC constituted a national task force to understand the factors leading to unfortunate suicides to recommend steps to improve the current situation.
As per the statement released on February 21, “Mental health of medical students has been a cause of concern in the recent past leading to depression and suicide by medical students. To address this issue, a National Task Force has been constituted by the anti-ragging committee of the National Medical Commission (NMC).”
Dr B M Suresh, Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro-Sciences (NIMHANS), leads the 15-member task force as its chairman.
Outlined by its terms and references, the task force is charged with delving into existing literature and data concerning the mental health and suicide rates among medical students. Their objective is to dissect the factors contributing to these challenges and devise evidence-based strategies to enhance mental well-being and prevent suicides.
To gain deeper insights, the committee plans to visit colleges where suicides have been reported.
By May 31, 2024, the task force aims to deliver a comprehensive report explaining its key findings and proposing actionable recommendations for bolstering the mental health support available to medical students. Regular progress updates will be provided to the anti-ragging cell. The task force is committed to convening regular meetings, either virtually or in person, as necessary to fulfil its mandate.
