Al Razi (not his real name), a resident of Mirpur in the capital, was actively involved in the Anti-discrimination Student Movement near his home. He witnessed many things during the protests, but even after several days have passed since the movement's victory, Razi has not returned to normalcy.
He reports severe disturbances in his sleep, making it difficult for him to rest properly. His temper has also become erratic, and he finds himself easily irritated.
On August 21, he sought help from a doctor at the National Institute Of Mental Health and Hospital. He is now following the doctor’s advice to manage his condition.
In July and August, the student movement led to numerous casualties, with the exact number of fatalities yet to be determined, though it is believed to exceed 1,000.
Many who witnessed clashes and bloodshed are now struggling to return to normal life. Among them, students are the most affected, having witnessed violence, shootings and bombings up close.
Many of their peers have suffered injuries, with some still undergoing treatment in hospitals. Even those with minor injuries have yet to fully recover.
In such circumstances, these students are returning to their educational institutions with mental scars.
Seeking help is crucial
Doctors say both those who have experienced violence directly and those who have witnessed it are at risk of developing various mental health issues, and during this time, parents and teachers need to be vigilant about their mental well-being.
The National Institute of Mental Health has launched an initiative to provide mental health services to individuals injured in the movement and their families.
A doctor there said that since August 21, four individuals had sought mental health services at the institute. Among them, three are aged between 22 and 28, and one is 50 years old. All are men.
Doctors noted that these individuals had exhibited symptoms such as irritability, sleep disturbances, fear and restlessness.
They were referred to appropriate specialists for further treatment.
Many were unaware that it was crucial to seek medical advice regarding their mental health to return to normal life, the doctors added.
According to mental health professionals, students involved in the movement may develop acute stress disorder (ASD) and, later, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The traumatic memories of violence may resurface, leading to constant anxiety and fear. Symptoms may include sleep disturbances, nightmares, emotional numbness, lack of focus and forgetfulness. Some may suffer from depression due to the loss of loved ones.
Dr Mohammad Muntasir Maruf, associate professor in the community and social psychiatry department at the National Institute of Mental Health, told this correspondent: "Students may develop feelings of guilt for not being able to protect their fellow protesters or classmates who were victims of violence. In children, depression may manifest as irritability due to their inability to express their feelings. Many may also suffer from excessive anxiety. Overall, some may struggle to regain interest or focus in their studies."
He added that many might experience fear, anxiety, uncertainty and a sense of helplessness stemming from the perception of injustice or prolonged legal processes, leading to a risk of suicide.
Regarding the necessary actions, Muntasir emphasized the crucial role of both parents and teachers during this time. He said educational institutions should not impose heavy academic pressure immediately after reopening; instead, they should assist students in regaining focus on their studies.
“Students should be encouraged to express their thoughts and emotions appropriately. Opportunities for healthy recreation, including sports, should be provided. Additionally, ensuring social and legal security is essential. In cases of depression, anxiety, PTSD or any other mental health issues, it is important to seek help from mental health professionals. Families and educational institutions must remain especially vigilant to prevent suicide.
“Furthermore, maintaining good mental health requires adequate – not excessive – sleep, sufficient rest, a balanced and healthy diet, and nurturing healthy relationships. Adopting a disciplined lifestyle following a routine is also necessary.”
PTSD
Kamal Uddin Ahmed Chowdhury, a professor in Dhaka University’s clinical psychology department, said one of the major mental health issues that could arise after intense grief or trauma was PTSD.
“The key symptoms of this disorder include the recurring memories of the event or experience that caused the trauma. The traumatic event may resurface as real memories, imagination or nightmares, causing the individual to feel terrorized as if the horrible event is about to happen again. Another symptom is significant changes in the individual’s normal emotions, such as increased anxiety, fear, panic, anger or restlessness."
Due to PTSD, individuals might experience disruptions in their normal lives, deterioration in social relationships, loss of focus or interest in studies and poor work performance, potentially leading them to quit their jobs or businesses in an attempt to protect themselves, Kamal added.
Depression or despondency might occur, even without an apparent cause, sometimes leading to suicidal thoughts, the professor said, adding that even without PTSD, other symptoms might still manifest.
Kamal said numerous people had gone through severe traumatic experiences following the protests, with many likely suffering from significant mental trauma, either directly or indirectly.
He emphasized the need for mental health services for these individuals.
Additionally, he stressed the importance of prioritizing mental health services for families who had lost members, children and adolescents who had been injured, tortured or imprisoned, as well as those who had witnessed or experienced violence, shootings and killings, leading to mental distress.