United News of Bangladesh

Tears have no colour, they say. Yet in Bangladesh, countless tears fall quietly, behind closed doors, where no one notices. A mother wakes before dawn, her chest tight with panic because sleep has once again betrayed her. A factory worker forces his trembling hands through another endless shift. A teenage girl laughs with her siblings while a storm of fear rages inside her. These are not isolated tales of sadness. They are glimpses into the daily battles of people living with mental illness. Some carry a diagnosis. Many do not. Yet all of them shoulder conditions too often brushed aside - as weakness, as silence, as shame. They are everywhere. But for each of them, there is almost no hand to hold, no ear to listen, no system ready to help. The quiet siege of daily life Numbers alone cannot tell the whole story, but they paint a grim picture. Between 2022 and 2025, researchers surveyed more than 7,500 women in hospitals across Bangladesh. What they found was staggering: three out of four pregnant and new mothers battled depression or anxiety, and more than half suffered from both at once. For many, what should have been a time of joy turned into ‘nights of exhaustion, despair and haunting thoughts’. (Source: Dhaka Tribune) Children and teenagers are no less burdened. An education system built on fear and finality too often crushes them. In May 2024, at least eight students died by suicide on the day their SSC exam results were released - proof that, for some, a single ‘piece of paper’ can feel like the end of life itself. (Source: Daily Observer) Adults carry their own silent weights. Nearly one in five struggles with depression or anxiety. Yet the vast majority never receive treatment - not because they do not want it, but because it is too costly, too far away, or ‘too shameful to seek’. In a country of more than 170 million people, there are only 260 psychiatrists and 565 psychologists - most based in cities. Rural Bangladesh, where most people live, remains abandoned in the dark. Why the silence deepens The last nationwide mental health survey was carried out in 2018. Since then, the country has endured the pandemic, spiralling prices, political turmoils and repeated climate disasters - each a heavy blow to already fragile minds. But no new data tells us how deep the wounds now run. Even for those who try to seek help, barriers stand tall. Counselling often means long travel, unbearable expense and stigma that can break a person before the illness does. Women face an added wall of silence, trapped by patriarchy and shame. Speaking about despair can invite ridicule or even abuse. For youth, failure feels final. For the poor, survival leaves no space for healing. On paper, Bangladesh has taken steps. It has joined the WHO’s Special Initiative for Mental Health. Plans are in motion for a new Directorate of Mental Health, with promises of expanding primary care and telemedicine. But promises are not practice. Most districts have yet to see any meaningful services. Budgets remain thin, facilities few and public awareness campaigns rare. The gap between ambition and lived reality continues to swallow lives. What must change Mental health is not a private weakness - it is a public issue, and ignoring it is a national failure. Experts urge: 1. Conduct national mental health surveys every 2–3 years. 2. Bring services closer - community centres, mobile clinics, school and workplace counselling, and promote tele-counselling.                3. Train and deploy more psychiatrists, psychologists, and counsellors - especially women professionals. 4. Embed mental health education into schools and workplaces. 5. Fight stigma through campaigns led by media, faith leaders, and communities. Each unheard cry is not just an individual tragedy - it is a collective loss. Bangladesh can choose to remain silent, becoming a country of unheard voices. Or it can choose to act — to open a clinic, to offer a listening ear, to save even one life. Because if even one life is pulled back from despair, the story changes. And that change begins the moment silence finally breaks.

Maritime ports of Chattoram, Cox’s Bazar, Mongla and Payra have been advised to keep hoisted distant cautionary signal no one as the depression over Westcentral Bay and adjoining area moved northeastwards and now lies over the same area. It was centered at 6 am Saturday about 1265 kms southwest of Chattogram port, 1220 kms southwest of Cox’s Bazar, 1140 kms southwest of Mongla port and 1140 kms southwest of Payra port, said a Met office bulletin. It is likely to move north-northeasterly direction further. Maritime ports asked to hoist local cautionary signal No 1 Maximum sustained wind speed within 44 kms of the depression centre I about 40 kph rising to 50 kph in gust or squalls. Sea will remain rough near the depression centre. All fishing boats and trawlers over North Bay and deep sea have been advised to remain close to the coast and proceed with caution till further notice. They are also advised not to venture into the deep sea.      

The Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) has reported that the well-marked low over the Southwest Bay and adjoining Southeast Bay of Bengal has intensified into a depression and is moving west-northwestwards. According to the BMD, the depression is expected to continue moving in a west-northwesterly direction. In its latest forecast, the BMD also predicted rain or thundershowers in Khulna division within 24 hours, starting from 9:00 am on Wednesday. “Rain or thundershowers accompanied by temporary gusty winds are likely to occur at one or two places over Khulna division. Elsewhere, the weather is expected to remain mainly dry with partly cloudy skies,” BMD said. Read: Fresh depression threatens rainfall, temperature changes in Bangladesh The highest recorded rainfall in the country over 24 hours, up until 6:00 am on Wednesday, was 14mm in Dinajpur. Day and night temperatures are expected to remain largely unchanged across the country, according to the BMD. The highest temperature recorded during 24 hours, until 6:00 pm on Tuesday, was 35°C in Feni, Sitakunda, and Mongla, while the lowest temperature, 22.5°C, was recorded in Tetulia early Wednesday morning.

Severe Cyclonic Storm Remal, which made landfall on Bangladesh’s coast on Sunday (May 26, 2024) night, moved northwards and weakened into a cyclonic storm and further weakened into a land deep depression over Jashore and adjoining area, according to Bangladesh Meteorological Department. It is likely to move northeastwards further and weaken into a land depression by giving precipitation, the BMD stated in its special bulletin. Dhaka’s air quality improves after rain due to the influence of Cyclone Remal Maritime ports of Payra and Mongla have been advised to lower danger signal number 10 but instead hoist local cautionary signal number three (R ) three. Maritime ports of Cox's bazar and Chattogram have been advised to lower danger signal number nine but instead hoist local cautionary signal number three (r) three. Cyclone Remal: Another man dies on the way to shelter All fishing boats and trawlers over north bay have been advised to remain in shelter till tomorrow morning (28 may 2024) and then proceed with caution.

Suicide is a tragic and complex phenomenon that affects individuals and communities worldwide. Mental health negligence, particularly concerning men, has become a pressing concern. Despite increasing awareness of mental health issues, men often face unique challenges that make them more vulnerable to suicide. This article delves into the various factors contributing to this troubling trend. Global and Local Statistics of Suicide: Male vs Female Females, especially those under 25, exhibit higher rates of non-fatal suicidal behaviour and suicidal ideation, and attempt suicide more frequently. But, in reality, males have a significantly higher rate of completing suicide than females. This phenomenon is commonly known as the gender paradox in suicide. Around the world, more men than women die by suicide. According to Wikipedia, in 2008 and 2015, the number of male suicides was about 1.8 to 1.7 times higher than female suicides globally. In Western countries, men are three to four times more likely to die by suicide compared to women. In 2015,  around two-thirds of global suicide deaths (representing about 1.5% of total deaths) were among men. Data from The National Violent Death Reporting System (NVDRS) in the USA for 2016 revealed that for every female suicide, there were about 3.5 male suicides. However, in China, the rates of suicide between men and women were almost the same. The male vs female suicide ratio is 9.1:10.3. Read more: Good Stress: What Are the Benefits of Eustress? In 2019, the rate of suicide deaths among males was over 3.5 times higher than that among females. By 2021, this disproportionate rate increased to over 3.9 times higher.  According to the CDC, in the USA, men experienced a suicide rate four times higher than that of women in 2021-2022.  In Bangladesh, the scenario is quite the same – more men than women commit suicide here. In 2017, there were over 11,000 recorded suicides. The average age for male suicide victims was about 28.86 years, while for females, it was about 25.31 years old. In 2019, 3.70 people took their own lives out of every 100,000 people in Bangladesh. The male suicide rate was 5.70 while the number is 1.70 for females. Also, the police records indicate a rising trend in suicides over the years. At the same time, psychologists estimate that around 11,000 people end their lives annually in Bangladesh. Read more: Students with Depression: Tips for Parents and Educators

Maritime ports of Bangladesh have been advised to hoist distant cautionary signal no. one as the deep depression over Westcentral Bay and adjoining area moved slightly north-northeastwards and now lies over the same area. At 6 am on Monday, it was centred about 840 kms West-Southwest of Chattogram port, 800 kms West-Southwest of Cox’s Bazar port, 710 kms southwest of Mongla and Payra ports, respectively, said a special Met office bulletin this morning (October 23, 2023). Read: Extreme weather kills 2 million, costs $4 trillion in 50 years: WMO It is likely to move north-northeastwards and intensify further, added the bulletin. Maximum sustained wind speed within 48 kms of the deep depression centre is about 50 kph rising to 60 kph in gusts or squalls. Sea will remain rough near the deep depression centre. Read: New weather forecasting system launched for Bangladeshi farmers Meanwhile, all fishing boats and trawlers over the North Bay and deep sea have been advised to remain closed to the coast and proceed with caution till further notice. They are also advised not to venture into the deep sea, reads the special bulletin.

Depression among students is a critical issue that demands urgent attention. The gravity of this problem magnifies the alarming rise in dropouts from colleges, study breaks, drug addictions, even suicidal attempts among students. As parents and educators, it is essential to be proactive in addressing this crisis through understanding, support, and guidance. Let’s take a look into how to prevent depression in students. Common Reasons for Depression among Students  Depression among students can be attributed to various factors, and understanding these reasons is the first step in prevention. Here are some common causes: - High expectations and academic stress can lead to feelings of hopelessness - Loneliness and a lack of social support can make students vulnerable to depression and suicidal thoughts - Bullying, whether in person or online, can devastate a student's mental health - Drug or alcohol abuse can exacerbate depression and increase the risk of suicide - Relationship problems can be a major source of stress and anxiety for students - Conflict with their parents, siblings, or friends can make them isolated and alone - Economic constraints and worries about the future can take a toll on a student's mental health - Traumatic events during childhood, like physical or emotional abuse or loss of a parent increase the risk of depression - Mental health conditions, such as bipolar disorder, and anxiety disorder can trigger depression - Having certain personality traits, such as low self-esteem or being overly dependent, self-critical, or pessimistic is a reason for depression.  Read more: Protecting Your Child’s Mental Health: 10 Tips for Parents

Australia is now the first country to allow psychiatrists to prescribe certain psychedelic substances to patients with depression or post-traumatic stress disorder. Beginning Saturday, Australian physicians can prescribe doses of MDMA, also known as ecstasy, for PTSD. Psilocybin, the psychoactive ingredient in psychedelic mushrooms, can be given to people who have hard-to-treat depression. The country put the two drugs on the list of approved medicines by the Therapeutic Goods Administration. Scientists in Australia were surprised by the move, which was announced in February but took effect July 1. One scientist said it puts Australia "at the forefront of research in this field." Chris Langmead, deputy director of the Neuromedicines Discovery Centre at the Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, said there have been very few advancements on treatment of persistent mental health issues in the last 50 years. After years of waiting, medical marijuana sold in Louisiana The growing cultural acceptance has led two U.S. states to approve measures for their use: Oregon was the first to legalize the adult use of psilocybin, and Colorado's voters decriminalized psilocybin in 2022. Days ago, President Joe Biden's youngest brother said in a radio interview that the president has been "very open-minded" in conversations the two have had about the benefits of psychedelics as a form of medical treatment. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration designated psilocybin as a "breakthrough therapy" in 2018, a label that's designed to speed the development and review of drugs to treat a serious condition. Psychedelics researchers have benefited from federal grants, including Johns Hopkins, and the FDA released draft guidance late last month for researchers designing clinical trials testing psychedelic drugs as potential treatments for a variety of medical conditions. New Zealand law to make medical marijuana widely available Still, the American Psychiatric Association has not endorsed the use of psychedelics in treatment, noting the FDA has yet to offer a final determination. And medical experts in the U.S. and elsewhere, Australia included, have cautioned that more research is needed on the drugs' efficacy and the extent of the risks of psychedelics, which can cause hallucinations. US growing largest crop of marijuana for research in 5 years "There are concerns that evidence remains inadequate and moving to clinical service is premature; that incompetent or poorly equipped clinicians could flood the space; that treatment will be unaffordable for most; that formal oversight of training, treatment, and patient outcomes will be minimal or ill-informed," said Dr. Paul Liknaitzky, head of Monash University's Clinical Psychedelic Lab. Canada now world's largest legal marijuana marketplace Plus, the drugs will be expensive in Australia — about $10,000 (roughly $6,600 U.S. dollars) per patient for treatment. Uruguay is betting on exports of medical marijuana Litnaitzky said the opportunity for Australians to access the drugs for specific conditions is unique. "There's excitement about drug policy progress," he said, "... about the prospect of being able to offer patients more suitable and tailored treatment without the constraints imposed by clinical trials and rigid protocols." Thailand approves medical marijuana

In today's hectic urban life, stress has become a constant companion, affecting our mental wellbeing. Research suggests that information overload, constant digital connectivity, unlimited screen time and heavy use of tech devices can lead to issues such as sleep problems, depression, and increased stress levels. Amidst such situation, digital detox can help to refresh the mind and help find moments of tranquility.  A digital detox is a personal choice to temporarily disconnect from digital devices and social media. Taking a break from screens and unplugging from the online world can provide a much-needed escape from the overwhelming digital noise. Let's explore the ways of embracing a digital detox for a rejuvenated mind. 11 Ways to Unplug Temporarily from the Digital World  Set Screen-free Zones Consider setting up designated screen-free zones in your home. Like the dining table or bedroom, as peaceful havens for unwinding and enjoying precious moments with your close ones. By creating these spaces, you can foster relaxation, encourage meaningful connections, and cherish quality time without the distractions of screens. Let these areas become sanctuaries of togetherness and tranquility in your home. Read more: Protecting Your Child’s Mental Health: 10 Tips for Parents Prioritize Real-world Connections You can schedule frequent face-to-face meetings and outings with your loved ones. These moments hold immense value in nurturing deep connections and decreasing our dependence on virtual interactions. Engaging in real-life interactions allows us to have authentic conversations, shared experiences, and a sense of closeness that cannot be replicated online.  Set Tech-free Hours You can try to set aside specific hours each day for complete disconnection from digital devices. During this time, give yourself the opportunity to engage in activities that bring you joy, such as reading a book, exercising, or pursuing your favorite hobbies. You can create a space for personal growth, and the fulfillment that comes from offline experiences. You can embrace this valuable time to nourish your mind, body, and soul.

The depression over southeast Bay and the adjoining area has intensified into a deep depression. At 6 am on Wednesday, it was centred about 1550 km south of Chattogram port, 1470 km south of Cox’s Bazar port, 1550 km south-southeast of Mongla port and 1505 km south-southeast of Payra port. It is likely to intensify further and move in a north-northwesterly direction till May 11 (Thursday). Thereafter, it is likely to recurve gradually and move north-northwards. Also read: Depression over Bay intensifies into deep depression Maximum sustained wind speed within 48 km of the deep depression centre is about 50 kph rising to 60 kph in gusts or squalls. Sea will remain moderate near the deep depression centre. Maritime ports of Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar, Mongla and Payra have been advised to keep hoisted distant cautionary signal no one. All fishing boats and trawlers over north Bay and deep sea have been advised to remain close to the coast and proceed with caution. They are also advised not to venture into the deep sea.