World Mental Health Day 2023: Understanding ragging and the urgent need for families and authorities to prioritise student safety

The incidents of ragging have recently been on the rise. Earlier this October, an incident of alleged ragging at Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV) in Palghar came to light after several students were reportedly injured. One of them was even referred to an ENT specialist, who found the student to have a damaged eardrum. While a probe is underway, this is not the first instance of ragging in the recent past in the city and country.

In September, a student at the Rajiv Gandhi Medical College in Thane was reportedly ragged by his peers inside the college hostel; nine students have now been suspended. In August, a video of a student at Bandodkar College in the same region assaulting NCC cadets on the Joshi Bedekar College campus went viral; the student has now been suspended. In the same month, another student at Jadavpur University died after falling from the second floor of his college hostel, allegedly due to ragging; the responsible students have been arrested and will not be allowed to enter the campus till they are acquitted.

Most of us have been bullied when we were younger, either in school and college or outside of it, there have been others who have even been ragged and probably lived with it with difficulty. While bullying can occur at any level, ragging usually takes place in educational institutions by seniors as an initiation process for the juniors. However, the recent incidents only prove that ragging is rampant and its effects are seen in different ways, and it definitely affects students mentally. Every year, World Mental Health Day is celebrated on October 10. With growing incidents of ragging, the effects of the act on mental health are huge. Experts say there is a need for colleges to tackle this issue immediately by prioritising awareness campaigns that highlight the harmful consequences of ragging while fostering an inclusive environment where every student feels safe and respected.

With the rise in recent incidents being reported in Mumbai, mid-day.com spoke to Dr Santosh Bangar, senior consultant- psychiatrist at Global Hospitals in Parel, and city-based psychologist Parveen Sheikh, vice president, operations, Mpower (an initiative by Aditya Birla Education Trust). While the causes may be known, they stress on its effects on students, and toll on mental health. They also dwell on how not only family members have to be vigilant but also how authorities need to take timely action.

What is ragging and why does it occur?
Bangar: Ragging is a disturbing practice prevalent in many educational institutions around the world. It involves seniors subjecting new students to various forms of physical, verbal, and emotional abuse. It often stems from a desire to establish dominance and assert authority by seniors over newcomers. The perpetrators seek validation for their own experiences of being subjected to ragging during their time as juniors. By inflicting pain on others, they replicate the sense of power they once felt helpless against.

Moreover, peer acceptance plays a crucial role in driving ragging incidents. Students feel compelled to participate due to fear of being ostracised or labelled as weak.

Furthermore, societal norms that romanticise aggressive behaviour and view it as character-building contribute to its persistence.

What are the signs that the student is being ragged?
Sheikh: It is critical to understand how ragging affects students psychologically since it frequently leaves lasting wounds. Keep an eye out for any physiological symptoms, such as headaches, stomach-aches, or sleep difficulties brought on by stress.

Avoidance behaviour, worry about particular people or groups, and social isolation are all warning signs of underlying distress. The adverse effects of ragging may be indicated by unexplained injuries or a rapid fall in academic performance, which may raise red flags. Some students may endure extortion demands, display emotional discomfort, and fail to maintain good personal cleanliness, or may hesitate to confide in with others.
How does ragging affect a student? Is it different for younger students as compared to the older ones?

Bangar: Effects of ragging on students can be severe and long-lasting. For younger students, who are often entering college or university for the first time, ragging can have an overwhelming psychological impact. The fear of humiliation and physical harm can lead to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. These feelings can hinder their academic performance and social development.

On the other hand, older students who experience ragging may face different challenges. They may feel a sense of shame and embarrassment for not being able to stand up against their peers or authority figures conducting the ragging activities. This can intensify feelings of isolation and resentment within the institution. They may also be hesitant to seek help because they fear being labelled as weak or unable to handle such situations independently.

How can one deal with ragging?
Sheikh: Addressing ragging is of paramount importance, and these guidelines can assist individuals in handling such situations with composure and confidence.
1. Stay calm: Keep your composure and avoid reacting emotionally.
2. Document incidents: Keep records of ragging incidents.
3. Talk to someone trusted: Share your concerns with a friend, family member, or faculty member.
4. Report to authorities: If ragging persists, report it to your educational institution.
5. Seek counselling: Consider counselling to cope with the emotional distress
6. Know your rights: Familiarise yourself with anti-ragging policies and laws.
7. Stay connected: Maintain supportive friendships.
8. Use technology wisely: Be cautious online and avoid confrontations.
9. Self-care: Prioritise sleep, nutrition, and relaxation.
10. Stay informed: Know available resources within your institution.
11. Take support from school and college communities: Seek help from college communities and authorities, such as Communities like COPE (Counselling and Outreach for Peer Empowerment). These clubs provide a safe space to discuss mental health issues and can offer support for students facing ragging or stress.

What steps should students and parents check before applying to colleges?
Bangar: The first step in preventing ragging incidents is thorough research on the college policies and the steps taken by the institution to curb such practices. Parents must actively participate in this process as well, as it directly concerns the safety of their children.
Checking whether the college has committees specifically dedicated to preventing ragging or if they have implemented strict disciplinary actions will give students and parents peace of mind.

Understanding these policies will also enable students and parents to take appropriate measures if they witness or face any instances of ragging. Being aware of whom to approach or what steps to take can help address such issues promptly, ensuring that no one suffers from physical or mental trauma during this critical transitional period.

What makes ragging problematic, and do you believe ragging is rampant in India?
Sheikh: Ragging is problematic for several reasons:
1. Psychological Impact: It can have severe psychological consequences on victims, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress. It creates a hostile and stressful environment, impacting students' emotional well-being.

2. Physical harm: Ragging can lead to physical injuries and, in extreme cases, can be life-threatening.

3. Academic disruption: It often disrupts the academic pursuits of students who may become too distressed to focus on their studies.

4. Violation of rights: Ragging infringes upon the basic rights of individuals to dignity and security.

As for its prevalence in India, ragging has been a longstanding issue in the country's educational institutions not only in India but internationally too. Quite often we hear news on various cases of ragging that happens within college/ school/ corporate corridors. While there have been efforts to curb it through legislation and awareness campaigns, it still exists in some places. However, its extent varies from one institution to another and not all colleges or universities tolerate or practice ragging. It is essential to address the issue collectively to create safe and respectful learning environments for students.

How can parents of students dealing with ragging recognise signs?
Bangar: As parents, it is important to be aware of the signs that your child may be experiencing ragging at their educational institution. One key sign to look out for is a sudden change in behaviour or mood. If your child starts displaying signs of anxiety, depression, or withdrawal from social activities they previously enjoyed, this could indicate that something is wrong.

Another crucial sign is a decline in academic performance. If your child was once a high achiever but suddenly starts struggling with their grades or losing interest in studying, it could be a result of the stress and pressure caused by ragging. It is essential for parents to regularly communicate with their children about their experiences at school and create an open and trusting environment where they feel comfortable sharing any concerns or issues they may have.

Also Read: World Mental Health Day 2023: How high parental expectations impact young adults' mental well-being