Echoes of Despair: Afghanistan's Youth Battle Mental Health Crisis

Recent incidents of suicide in Afghanistan's Nangarhar and Kandahar provinces have reignited concerns over the mental health crisis plaguing the country's youth. Drug addiction, domestic violence, and unemployment are identified as primary contributors, as reported by TOLO News.

One of the victims, Abdul Haq from Chaparhar district in Nangarhar, tragically hanged himself, leaving behind two children. His family revealed his struggles with mental illness and drug addiction, which led to multiple hospitalizations. "Despite efforts to rehabilitate him, his addiction and mental health issues overwhelmed him," his father Noorurrahman lamented.

Official reports from TOLO News indicate several recent suicides due to economic and mental stress, such as Abdullah Abid in Uruzgan and Fida Mohammad in Kandahar. The situation is exacerbated by traditional challenges like unaffordable dowries, as seen in the tragic case in Paktika province. Experts and religious leaders urge increased awareness and resilience among youth to combat this crisis.

(With inputs from agencies.)