Academic pressure drives 14-year-old girl into depression

Dr. Nguyen Viet Chung from the Mental Health Department of E Hospital said Thursday that the patient was brought to the hospital in a state of severe psychological exhaustion.

She exhibited symptoms including memory loss, difficulty concentrating, frequent self-blame, and self-harm tendencies. A diagnosis confirmed depressive disorder with suicidal thoughts, triggered by significant psychological trauma.

The girl faced enormous pressure from her family, particularly because her older brother suffers from hemophilia, a chronic blood disorder. The intense expectations placed upon her, combined with a lack of acknowledgment from her mother, led her to feel worthless and overwhelmed. She explained that failing to achieve high academic performance resulted in scolding from her mother and grandfather, reinforcing her belief that she had no reason to live.

Chung highlighted that depression is increasingly common among adolescents, especially among high-achieving middle and high school students. The primary cause often lies in conflicts arising from intense academic pressure and family expectations. Many students feel trapped in a relentless cycle of studying to meet external demands, yet receive little recognition or personal satisfaction. This accumulated stress gradually evolves into depression.

For high-achieving students, the burden of continual success intensifies internal conflicts, preventing them from expressing their true selves.

Adolescence is a critical developmental period marked by hormonal and psychological changes. When emotions are suppressed and left unaddressed, prolonged stress and depression can develop, potentially leaving lasting psychological scars that impact personality development and future mental health.

Doctors urge families to closely monitor their children's emotional and mental health, provide emotional support, and listen patiently. Reducing excessive expectations can alleviate academic pressure significantly. Parents are advised to actively engage with their children's studies and recreational activities while carefully supervising their exposure to harmful online content.

Identifying early signs of distress and intervening quickly can create a safer environment, including removing potentially dangerous objects such as medications or sharp tools.