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Dying by suicide is a serious public health issue in India. In 2021, there were an estimated 1.64 lakh deaths by suicide in India, according to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB). This means that suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in India.

There are many reasons why someone might have suicidal thoughts. Some of the most common reasons include:

• Depression: Depression is a mental illness that can cause feelings of sadness, hopelessness, worthlessness, and emptiness. It is the most common mental illness in the US, and it is estimated that one in five adults will experience depression at some point in their lives.
• Anxiety: Anxiety is another mental illness that can lead to suicidal thoughts. Anxiety disorders can cause feelings of fear, worry, and nervousness. They can also cause physical symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and chest pain.
• Substance abuse: Substance abuse can also lead to suicidal thoughts. People who abuse drugs or alcohol may be trying to self-medicate for mental health problems, or they may be using substances to numb their pain.
• Medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as chronic pain or terminal illness, can also increase the risk of suicide. People who are facing these challenges may feel like they have no hope for the future.
• Economic problems: Financial hardship, unemployment, and poverty can all contribute to suicidal thoughts. In India, the suicide rate is highest among people from low-income families. Learn more about the impact of the economy on mental health.
• Family problems: Domestic violence, child abuse, and other family problems can also lead to suicide. In India, the suicide rate is higher among women and children who have experienced abuse.
• Trauma: Traumatic experiences such as natural disasters, war, and violence can also increase the risk of suicide. Abuse, neglect, or violence can also increase the risk of suicide. People who have experienced trauma may have difficulty coping with their emotions, and they may feel like they are all alone. In India, the suicide rate is higher in areas that have been affected by natural disasters or conflict. If you want to learn more about trauma and survivors guilt.

In addition to these individual factors, there are also social and environmental factors that can contribute to suicide. These factors include:

• Lack of access to mental health care: In India, there is a shortage of mental health care providers, and many people who need help cannot afford it. This lack of access can make it difficult for people to get the treatment they need to manage their mental health problems.
• Stigma: There is still a lot of stigma associated with mental illness and suicide. This stigma can prevent people from seeking help, and it can also make people feel isolated and alone.
• Media portrayal of suicide: The media can also play a role in suicide. When suicide is portrayed in a sensationalized or glorified way, it can trigger suicidal thoughts in people who are already struggling.

The effects of suicidal thoughts can be devastating. People who have suicidal thoughts may feel hopeless, worthless, and alone. They may also have difficulty concentrating, sleeping, and eating. In some cases, suicidal thoughts can lead to suicide attempts.

There are many things that can be done to prevent suicide in India. These include:

• Raising awareness about mental health problems: One of the most important things that can be done to prevent suicide is to raise awareness about mental health problems. This includes educating people about the signs and symptoms of mental health problems, as well as the importance of seeking help if they are struggling.
• Decreasing stigma associated with mental health problems: Stigma is a major barrier to seeking help for mental health problems. In India, there is still a lot of stigma associated with mental health problems, which can prevent people from seeking help. It is important to work to reduce stigma so that people feel comfortable talking about their mental health and seeking help if they need it.
• Improving access to mental health care: In India, access to mental health care is limited. This is especially true in rural areas. It is important to improve access to mental health care so that people who are struggling can get the help they need.
• Supporting families and communities: Families and communities play a vital role in preventing suicide. It is important to provide support to families and communities so that they can identify and help people who are struggling.

In addition to the reasons mentioned above, there are a few other factors that may contribute to suicide in India. These include:

• The cultural expectation of perfection: In India, there is a strong cultural expectation of perfection. This can put a lot of pressure on people to succeed, which can lead to stress and anxiety.
• The lack of social support: In India, social support is often limited. This can make it difficult for people who are struggling to get the help they need.
• The lack of awareness about suicide prevention: In India, there is still a lack of awareness about suicide prevention. This can make it difficult for people who are struggling to know where to get help.

Suicide is a serious problem, but it is one that can be prevented. You can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or visit their website at https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/. If you are having suicidal thoughts, please reach out for help at a crisis helpline  or an emergency service. There are many people who care about you and want to help.

– Urveez Kakalia and Sakshi Merai.

References:

Benu, B. P. (2023, March 23). Is economic distress causing a spike in suicide deaths in India? https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/data-stories/deep-dive/is-economic-distress-causing-a-spike-in-suicide-deaths-in-india/article66635113.ece#:~:text=The%20NCRB%20recorded%201.5%20lakh,high%20at%2012%20in%202021.

Singh, O. P. (2022). Startling suicide statistics in India: Time for urgent action. Indian Journal of Psychiatry, 64(5), 431. https://doi.org/10.4103/indianjpsychiatry.indianjpsychiatry_665_22