'Pressure Of Being Someone...": Edelweiss' Radhika Gupta Says Instagram Is The Reason Why Young People Are Depressed

Mental health issues among young adults are on the rise, and opinions vary widely on the causes behind this troubling trend. Radhika Gupta, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Edelweiss Mutual Fund, recently attributed the increase to the impact of Instagram.

Pressure of having a 'cool' life on Instagram

Radhika Gupta. CEO of Edelweiss

Replying to a question that asked, "In your opinion, why do you think so many young people are depressed?," Radhika Gupta took to X to share, "The pressure of being someone because their life looks cool on Instagram, rather than being your unique self."

The pressure of being someone because their life looks cool on Instagram, rather than being your unique self. https://t.co/HMn7xRCekG

¡ª Radhika Gupta (@iRadhikaGupta) May 26, 2024

Ms. Gupta highlighted that one of the primary reasons for the surge in mental health issues among young people is the growing obsession with curating a life that looks perfect on Instagram, rather than focusing on becoming the best version of themselves.

Why there is a rise in mental health issues in India

Since the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 forced the world into lockdown, there has been an explosion of mental health-related issues. A report in 2023 by an NGO working in the field of mental health revealed that one-third of those who contacted its helpline were battling anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts.

Also read: Anxiety, Depression, Suicidal Thoughts, Most Common Issues Faced By Those Seeking Help: Survey

FIle photo

There is growing concern over the rise of depression and other mental health illnesses among young adults in India. According to UNICEF, one in seven Indian youths aged 15 to 24 are always depressed or show little enthusiasm for anything.

Researchers have identified numerous factors linked to depression in young Indian adults.

Also read: Gen Z Taking More Sick Leaves Than Older Generations Due To Mental Health Crisis, Reveals Research

These include biological and genetic factors, such as changes in brain chemistry and a family history of depression, as well as environmental and social factors, like academic pressure, parental expectations, social media influence, shifting social norms, stress or trauma exposure, social isolation, family conflicts, and financial hardship.

The issue is further exacerbated by the stigma attached to mental health in India, which can prevent individuals from seeking therapy or help.

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