Urgent Call for Action on Suicide Prevention in India

The rising number of suicide cases in India calls for immediate attention and collective action. This issue must no longer be seen as a matter of personal choice but rather as a pressing social concern that necessitates the involvement of the government, health systems, non-profits, workplaces, mental health professionals, and our communities.

Suicide is a deeply challenging topic to discuss, marked by pain, grief, and stigma, leading to a pervasive culture of silence. This silence makes it easy to overlook the escalating crisis of suicide in the country. It is imperative that we prioritize suicide prevention and simultaneously address the critical issue of access to quality mental healthcare. These two aspects are not only essential but also a moral imperative for the well-being of our society.

In 2021, the National Crime Records Bureau reported over 160,000 deaths by suicide, a number that has been steadily increasing in the past decade. For every suicide, there are approximately 60 individuals profoundly impacted by the loss of a loved one, and more than 20 attempt suicide. These statistics likely underestimate the problem due to underreporting and stigma.

Sadly, suicide prevention often receives little attention, even within the mental health sector and among funders. Raising awareness about this issue is crucial, and it demands a shift in focus from individual deaths to a broader social problem that requires collective efforts.

To address this crisis, research and insight-building efforts are crucial. The Mariwala Health Initiative (MHI) has initiated a comprehensive approach to suicide prevention, emphasizing that suicide is not just a personal choice but a social issue. Marginalized communities face additional challenges that must be recognized and addressed.

A psychosocial approach that combines psychological support with access to social benefits is vital. This approach should also involve policy-level changes. MHI has actively engaged with policymakers, resulting in the release of India’s first National Suicide Prevention Strategy (NSPS) in 2022. This strategy envisions a society where lives are valued and support is readily available when needed.

Re-reported from the article originally published in The Mint