Thiruvananthapuram, Oct. 7 -- One out of every five students in Kerala aged between 12 and 19 years suffers from psychological distress, ranging from mild to severe levels, according to a recent study by Dr. Naresh Purohit, Advisor to the National Mental Health Programme.

Presenting his findings titled "Mental Illness Rampant in Kerala" at a webinar on Mental Health Challenges organised by the Kozhikode-based Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Dr. Purohit described the state's situation as "deeply concerning."He said 10.5 percent of students experience mild distress, 5.4 percent moderate, and another 5 percent suffer from severe psychological conditions.

"The increasing cases of suicides, familicides, and crimes fuelled by drug...