The pursuit of knowledge and academic excellence is considered one of the noblest endeavors in society. The attainment of a PhD is seen as the pinnacle of academic achievement, a recognition of one’s intellectual prowess and contribution to knowledge. However, this journey towards academic excellence is fraught with challenges that can have detrimental effects on the mental health of PhD scholars. In recent years, suicide among PhD scholars has become a growing concern in academic circles. The demands of a PhD program are immense, with long hours of research, reading, writing, and teaching, and often little time for self-care or leisure. The pressure to publish papers, present at conferences, and meet other academic requirements can be overwhelming, especially for scholars who are balancing academic work with personal responsibilities such as caring for family members or working part-time jobs. The pressure to achieve academic success, coupled with the lack of job security and financial stability in academia, can also create a sense of hopelessness and despair for some scholars.
Several studies have shown that PhD scholars are at a higher risk of mental health problems compared to the general population. In a 2018 study published in Research Policy, it was reported that 32% of PhD scholars experienced psychological distress, with anxiety and depression being the most common mental health issues. Another study published in PLOS ONE in 2020 found that 17% of PhD students had considered suicide, and 3.5% had attempted suicide. In a 2022 study, it was reported that more than 40% PhD students met the criteria for moderate to severe depression or anxiety, out of which 33% met the criteria for “suicide risk”.A study from India reported that 68% PhD students suffer from some sort of depressive order. Nearly 33 students have committed suicide across IITs since 2018, according to the Minister of State for Education. These numbers are alarming and indicate a need for immediate attention and action to address the mental health needs of PhD scholars.
One of the major factors contributing to suicide among PhD scholars is the lack of social support. PhD programs can be isolating, with scholars spending long hours working alone, often away from their families and friends. This isolation can exacerbate mental health problems and create a sense of loneliness and disconnection from the world. Additionally, the lack of mentorship and guidance, especially for first-generation PhD scholars, can lead to a sense of uncertainty and confusion, which can be overwhelming. The culture of academic excellence and competition in academia can also contribute to mental health issues and suicide among PhD scholars. The pressure to excel, publish, and present can create a sense of perfectionism and fear of failure, which can lead to burnout and mental health problems. The lack of job security and financial stability in academia can also create a sense of hopelessness and despair for scholars, leading to thoughts of suicide.
To address the issue of suicide among PhD scholars, universities and academic institutions must take proactive steps to provide mental health support and resources for scholars. This can include providing access to counselling services, support groups, and mental health resources such as books and online tools. Universities can also create a culture of support and openness, where mental health issues are not stigmatized but are seen as a natural part of the academic journey. Additionally, universities can create mentorship programs to support PhD scholars, especially those who are first-generation scholars or who come from disadvantaged backgrounds. Individual PhD scholars can also take steps to prioritize their mental health and well-being. This can include setting boundaries around work, taking time for self-care and leisure, seeking support from friends and family, and seeking professional help when needed. PhD scholars can also reach out to peer support groups, such as PhD student associations, to connect with other scholars who may be going through similar experiences.
Suicide among PhD scholars is a tragic phenomenon that needs urgent attention and action. The academic journey can be challenging and demanding, but it should not come at the cost of one’s mental health and well-being. Universities and academic institutions must prioritize the mental health needs of PhD scholars and provide the necessary support and resources to ensure that scholars can thrive academically and personally.
The author is a research scholar and the University of Kashmir. Feedback at [email protected]

Farheena Muzaffar