"Breaking the Silence: The True Cost of Ragging and Bullying on Mental Health"

As we navigate the complexities of university life, we must confront the harsh realities that many students face, particularly ragging and bullying. While some justify these actions as “tough love” meant to prepare us for the future, the truth is far more troubling. These practices often break down our personalities, perpetuate cycles of abuse, and leave lasting scars.

The Illusion of Tough Love:

Senior students claim that ragging is performed as an act of tough love, one that is meant to make us tougher and confident. But the reality is quite different. These actions cause us to lose our dignity and self-respect. When we are forced to follow arbitrary rules about how we look and what we do, it alienates us of our identity and independence.

Isolation and Control:

Ragging also has generally associated with it isolation tactics, such as restrictions on access to portions of the campus. This evokes feelings of rejection and decreases self-esteem. Condescension towards students reinforces inferiority feelings and fear.

The Psychological Load:

Academic pressure is hard enough, but ragging adds an additional psychological load. The fear of always getting something wrong and being punished creates a stressful environment, affecting academic performance and overall health.

Cycle of Abuse:

Unfortunately, the ragging cycle repeats itself. Victims of such abuse might turn around one day and become abusers themselves, believing it's a rite of passage. This self-perpetuating cycle must be broken for any real change to happen.

Coping Mechanisms and Consequences:

To cope with the enormous stress, some students resort to self-destructive activities, such as self-inflicting harm, withdrawal, or even suicidal attempts. These are not a matter of weakness but responses to an environment that has pushed them to the limits.

It is time to understand that strength lies not in abuse and fear, but in understanding, kindness, and support. Together, let's put an end to such damaging customs and establish a supportive system for all.

This post is shared for awareness purposes only. I’m not a mental health professional. If you’re struggling, please don’t hesitate to seek help from a qualified counselor or mental health service.

National Mental Health Helpline : 1926 

Sumithrayo (for emotional support and suicide prevention) https://srilankasumithrayo. :0112682570