My teacher believes that depression and suicide are not real issues.
Tragically, a local boy in my town recently took his own life due to academic pressure and mental health struggles. The following day, a teacher of mine expressed some disturbing views. To summarize what he said in English: “Depression is just a myth. It’s a sign of weakness if you choose to take such drastic actions as suicide. Suicidal thoughts are foolish; just move past it. What does suicide accomplish? Don’t let school stress bring you down; your studies are far more important than what you call depression. Studying doesn’t cause depression; it’s your weak mindset. Instead of dwelling on depression, focus on your studies. Keeping busy with academics will prevent you from feeling down.”
This teacher has over 25 years of experience and is highly respected in our community. I can’t help but think that in places like the U.S., a teacher making such remarks would face serious consequences. I’m curious about how such comments would be received there, but I’m not familiar with the education system in the U.S.
Moreover, I just can’t understand how a teacher, seen as a role model by many students, can dismiss mental health struggles in such a callous manner. I live in a country where it’s not unusual for teachers to say extremely inappropriate things to students, and surprisingly, many parents support such attitudes. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve heard parents at meetings tell teachers, “If he misbehaves, just hit him.”
I’m really sorry to hear about the situation in your town and the comments made by your teacher. It’s incredibly disheartening when someone in a position of authority, especially a teacher, dismisses the serious realities of mental health. Depression and suicidal thoughts are real issues that affect many people, and it’s crucial to acknowledge and discuss them openly and compassionately.
It’s important to remember that mental health is just as significant as physical health. Ignoring or trivializing it can have serious consequences, especially in environments where students are already under pressure. Encouraging open dialogue about mental health, providing support, and promoting understanding are vital steps in helping those who are struggling.
As for the cultural differences between education systems, it can vary widely based on where you are. In many places, including the U.S., there’s a growing emphasis on mental health awareness, and educators are often encouraged to approach these topics with sensitivity.
If you or anyone else is affected by these kinds of comments, it could be helpful to seek support from friends, family, or mental health professionals who can provide the understanding and care that might be lacking in the school environment. You’re not alone in this, and it’s important to reach out for help when you need it.