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An IIT Madras alumnus pursuing higher studies in the United States was found dead days after reportedly sending a cryptic message that read, “I don’t care.” The young Indian student’s death in the US has shocked his family, friends, and academic community. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident, which reportedly took place at his residence.
His friend remembered Sreenivasaiah as a friend who "lived, ate, travelled, laughed and joked with me", The Times Of India reported. And later he deleted his post.
Known as a bright and hardworking student, he had moved abroad to build his future, like many Indian students chasing global opportunities. Those who knew him said there were no clear public signs of distress, making the tragedy even harder to understand.
The incident has once again highlighted the mental health challenges faced by students overseas. Academic pressure, isolation, and life away from family can quietly take a toll. Experts stress that even brief expressions of detachment may sometimes signal deeper emotional struggles, underscoring the need for stronger mental health support systems for students abroad.
Mental health experts caution that statements expressing detachment, hopelessness, or emotional exhaustion may sometimes reflect deeper distress.
According to the WHO, “depression and anxiety disorders are among the leading causes of illness worldwide, particularly among young adults.”
While not every cryptic message signals a crisis, consistent withdrawal, mood changes, or loss of interest in daily activities should not be ignored.
Indian students in the United States often face multiple pressures at once:
Academic competition
Financial responsibility
Visa and immigration uncertainty
Cultural adjustment challenges
Social isolation
Research highlighted by the shows that young adults report rising stress levels linked to academic and social expectations.
Being far from family can intensify feelings of loneliness. Time-zone differences and stigma around mental health sometimes prevent students from opening up about their struggles.
Whenever I read reports like this—stories of bright, accomplished young people who seemed to have everything going for them—I am reminded of how easily we mistake achievement for well-being. Saketh was an IIT graduate, a patent-holder, a student at one of the world's most prestigious universities. On paper, his life was a testament to success. But as his roommate noted, he had "stopped caring about life" .
What strikes me most is the isolation that international students often endure. They leave behind familiar relationships, strong family networks, and the comfort of cultural familiarity . In their new environments, they face not only academic pressure but also practical challenges—extreme weather that can trigger seasonal affective disorder, financial stress from expensive tuition and living costs, and the relentless pressure to justify the investment their families have made in their education .
Data from the indicates that millions of young adults in the US experience mental health conditions each year, yet many do not seek treatment. Learn More.
Common early warning signs include:
Persistent sadness or irritability
Changes in sleep patterns
Social withdrawal
Expressions of hopelessness
Sudden behavioral changes
Early intervention through counseling, peer support, or therapy can significantly improve outcomes.
Despite growing awareness, mental health stigma remains a barrier in many communities. Students may fear being perceived as weak or worry about disappointing their families.
In many Indian families, topics like depression, anxiety, or emotional distress are still considered taboo.
Students often feel expected to “handle everything” without complaint, especially when studying abroad.
Many hesitate to share struggles due to concerns about worrying parents back home.
Conversations about therapy or counseling are not always normalized in traditional communities.
Cultural beliefs and social judgment can delay or prevent students from accessing mental health support.
Organizations like Nami the emphasize that seeking help is a sign of strength, not failure.
Universities are expanding counseling services, but proactive outreach and culturally sensitive care are essential—especially for international students.
The death of an Indian student in the US draws attention to the growing mental health challenges faced by students studying abroad.
Cryptic or emotionally detached messages can sometimes signal deeper psychological distress. Recognizing these signs early can save lives.
International students often deal with academic stress, visa uncertainty, financial burdens, and isolation.
Many students hesitate to seek help due to fear, shame, or cultural expectations. This story reinforces the need to normalize mental health conversations.
Universities, families, and communities must prioritize accessible counseling, peer support, and proactive mental health outreach.
Encourage regular emotional check-ins
Normalize conversations about stress and mental health
Promote campus counseling resources
Create peer support networks
Reduce stigma through awareness programs
Sometimes, a simple question—“Are you really okay?”—can open a door to meaningful support.
Vandrevala Foundation Helpline: +91 9999666555 (24x7)
Sanjivini (Delhi-based): 011-40769002 (10 am - 5:30 pm)
Sneha Foundation (Chennai-based): 044-24640050 (8 am - 10 pm)
National Mental Health Helpline: 1800-599-0019
Most US and UK universities offer confidential counselling services for students—check your institution's student wellness website
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 from anywhere in the US to connect with a crisis counsellor
International Association for Suicide Prevention: Get Help
Let us honour Saketh's memory not just with sorrow, but with action. If you know someone studying far from home, reach out. Ask them how they are really doing. And if you are that student yourself, please know that you don't have to carry the weight alone.
Take care of yourselves and each other.
1. Vandrevala Foundation Helpline:
+91 9999666555 (24x7)
2. Sanjivini (Delhi-based):
011-40769002 (10 am - 5:30 pm)
3. Sneha Foundation (Chennai-based):
044-24640050 (8 am - 10 pm)
4. National Mental Health Helpline: 1800-599-0019
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