September 10 is World Suicide Prevention Day
Dr Chandrima Naskar
Suicide is a serious issue in India, with over 150,000 people taking their lives each year. In 2022, the suicide rate of Jharkhand has been reported as 5.6 per lakh population, which is lower than the national average of 12.4. But we need to remember that the number of suicide attempts is almost 3-4 times the number of reported suicidal deaths.
The World Suicide Prevention Day serves as a global call to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and take meaningful steps to prevent suicide. As we approach this day on September 10th, it’s a timely reminder to take collective action, to shift the conversation and focus on making a real difference. To change the narrative, we need to dispel some myths and understand the main areas of concern regarding suicide.
Why does suicide happen?
Suicide or self-harm does not happen out of the blue. It is almost always a multistep event, starting from thoughts of hopelessness and helplessness, followed by wishes of dying, then persistent ideation, planning, and culminates in a life-threatening action. The steps vary from each individual to the next.
Does every person who tries to harm themselves has a mental illness?
Mental illnesses like Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Substance Use Disorder increases the risks of a person attempting self-harm. However, as per the National Crime Records Bureau data, the most common immediate triggers to attempt self-harm are ‘family problems’, ‘alcohol addiction’ and ‘financial problems’.
What can we change at an individual/ community level?
Reduce Stigma and Silence:
Why it matters: In many parts of India, mental illness is still taboo. People struggling with depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts often fear being judged or ostracized. This stigma isolates and silences those who need help the most. Also, a common belief is talking about suicide increases its chances of happening.
Solution: To break the cycle, we need to normalize talking about mental distress. Research has proven that allowing someone to talk about their thoughts about self-harm in a non-judgemental manner helps them. Encouraging open discussion about self- harm thoughts can lead to proactive treatment seeking and hence save many lives.
Making Family a Strength:
Why it matters: Family is the central pillar of Indian society. At times, the pressure to meet family expectations—whether academic achievements for students or financial stability for breadwinners—can be immense. This often leads to feelings of inadequacy and hopelessness, contributing to the high suicide rates among students and farmers.
Solution: Families need to encourage open communication, so members can discuss their struggles without fear, shame or judgment. Recognizing signs of depression and suicidal thoughts can help family members approach these topics with empathy and understanding.
What systemic level changes are needed?
Addressing Economic Stress:
Why it matters: Economic hardship, particularly among farmers facing debt and unemployed youth, are major drivers of suicide in India.
Solution: Policies for necessary financial support and debt relief, financial counselling services, skills training and job opportunities can help individuals in distress recover and regain purpose and hope.
Improving Education and Awareness:
Why it matters: Many people in India are unaware of the signs of mental distress or where to seek help. Without proper knowledge, they may not recognize when they or someone they care about is in danger.
Solution: Public awareness campaigns help spread knowledge and the resources available.
Utilising the Aura of Public Figures and Influencers:
Why it matters: Celebrities and influencers have a powerful platform to shape public opinion and attitudes.
Solution: Encouraging public figures to share their mental health journeys, help reducing the stigma and inspire others to seek help. Campaigns that involve celebrities advocating for mental health awareness can reach a broad audience and make a significant impact.
Improving Media Responsibility:
Why it matters: Sensationalist coverage, which often includes graphic details, can lead to an increase in copycat suicides, particularly among vulnerable populations, like teenagers.
Solution: Avoiding explicit details about methods, rather focusing on the underlying causes, and always including information about mental health resources. Also, highlighting stories of recovery and hope can help shift the focus from despair to the possibility of overcoming challenges.
Some steps have been taken like decriminalising suicide as per Indian Law and developing the Tele MANAS facility to which individuals from anywhere can call on a toll-free number to seek mental health support. Still, there remains a long way to go. This World Suicide Prevention Day, let us work on changing the narrative of fear, stigma and denial, and commit to breaking the silence.
(Author is Associate Specialist, Department of Psychiatry, Tata Main Hospital)
