NMC national task force to examine suicide among medical students

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By Sumit Jha

Feb 27, 2024

In response to growing concerns surrounding depression and suicide among medical students, the National Medical Commission (NMC) has set up a national task force.

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This task force is to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the factors contributing to suicides and subsequently formulate evidence-based strategies aimed at enhancing mental health.

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Heading the 15-member task force as its chairperson is Dr BM Suresh, a professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the NIMHANS in Bengaluru.

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“To address this issue, a National Task Force has been constituted by the anti-ragging committee of the National Medical Commission,” said an office order issued on 21 February.

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It is expected to submit a comprehensive report by 31 May outlining key findings and actionable recommendations for improving the mental health of medical students.

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The task force will have to submit a monthly progress report to the Anti-Ragging Cell of the NMC.

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It is expected to convene regular meetings — either virtually or in person — as necessary to fulfil its mandate.

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The NMC has disclosed that over the past five years, a total of 122 medical students ended their own lives, while another 1,270 medical professionals discontinued their studies.

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