By RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat has expressed concern over the growing mental health challenges among children and young people, saying that weakening family interactions and excessive dependence on digital screens are making the younger generation emotionally more vulnerable. He stressed that building resilience should become a shared responsibility of families, schools and society.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Sanmarg Mind Wellness Centre in Nagpur on Sunday, Bhagwat said children today need meaningful conversations and emotional support more than ever. He warned that loneliness and the absence of regular family engagement are contributing to rising stress among youngsters.
Bhagwat observed that earlier generations drew strength from stories rooted in Indian traditions and mythology, which helped children understand life’s struggles and develop emotional resilience. According to him, storytelling within families, particularly by grandparents, once played an important role in shaping a child’s character and confidence.
Drawing attention to changing family dynamics, he said many children now spend more time with televisions and mobile phones than interacting with parents or elders. As a result, they often grow up without the emotional guidance that previous generations received at home.
Referring to the pressures faced by students, Bhagwat questioned why many young people struggle to cope with setbacks. He pointed to incidents where students take extreme steps after academic failure or conflicts at home, saying such reactions reflect a deeper emotional crisis that society cannot ignore.
“The new generation needs conversation,” Bhagwat said, adding that parents and elders must ensure children do not feel isolated. He noted that when young people make mistakes, it is often a reflection of the guidance they have received rather than a failure on their part alone.
The RSS chief stressed that mental strength should be nurtured from an early age so that children are better equipped to deal with disappointments, failures and everyday challenges. He said developing emotional resilience should be considered a priority both within families and educational institutions.
Bhagwat also remarked that addressing mental health concerns cannot be left solely to doctors or psychologists. While professional support remains important, he said parents, teachers and community members all have a role in creating an environment where children feel supported and understood.
Highlighting India’s intellectual traditions, Bhagwat advocated for developing an “advanced Indian psychology” by combining modern psychological practices with insights from India’s ancient knowledge systems. He said Indian philosophical texts have long recognised the importance of understanding and strengthening the human mind.
Citing works such as the Yoga Vashistha and Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, Bhagwat said these traditions offer a holistic understanding of mental well-being that can complement contemporary psychological approaches. He clarified that his remarks were not intended to dismiss modern psychology but to encourage the integration of India’s own knowledge heritage into the field.
Concluding his address, Bhagwat praised the Sanmarg Mind Wellness Centre for its focus on emotional well-being and assured support for initiatives that prepare children to face life’s challenges with confidence. He said lasting solutions would come only through coordinated efforts involving homes, schools and local communities.
