1,616 Students Seek Mental Help as Psychologist Shortage Hits Schools

Education Minister Mahend Gungapersad has acknowledged a severe shortage of school psychologists in Mauritius, revealing that the government cannot afford to hire more due to budget constraints—even as mental health crises among students reach alarming levels.

New data presented in Parliament on July 22 shows that 1,616 students sought psychological help from the Ministry of Education between January and June 2025, undergoing a total of 9,207 therapy sessions—an average of 5.7 sessions per child.

Yet with only 39 Educational Psychologists serving the entire country, the system is overwhelmed. Minister Gungapersad admitted that 42 more psychologists are needed but conceded that financial limitations prevent immediate recruitment.

The figures confirm a troubling trend first highlighted by NGO Konekte, which reported a surge in depression and suicidal behaviors among students.

• In just the first two months of 2025, Konekte recorded 38 cases of severe depression in colleges—nearly matching their annual average of 40 cases.
• The group, which primarily operates in Catholic schools, has developed a suicide prevention manual to help teachers identify at-risk students.

While students are entitled to unlimited therapy sessions based on need, the minister clarified that parental consent is required before any psychological intervention—a potential barrier for vulnerable youth.

To compensate for the psychologist shortage, 22 Educational Social Workers have been assisting with:

• 2,094 home visits (Jan-June 2025)
• 1,069 new cases involving child protection, emotional well-being, and bullying
• Awareness campaigns for parents on discipline, resilience, and online dangers

The issue gained urgency after a state college student’s suicide in February 2025, which shocked the nation and prompted Gender Equality Minister Arianne Navarre-Marie to publicly condemn school bullying.

Concerns have also grown over social media and WhatsApp groups where vulnerable teens are allegedly encouraged toward self-harm. With suicide ranking as the third-leading cause of death globally among youth aged 15-24, advocates warn Mauritius cannot afford delays in mental health funding.

Though Minister Gungapersad pledged to “prioritize funding in future budgets,” critics argue that with 1 in 4 students reportedly struggling with mental health, immediate action is needed.

“Every day we wait, more children suffer,” said a Konekte representative. “This isn’t just an education crisis—it’s a national emergency.”

Source: Le Mauricien