Summary:
- Every year, around seven lakh people commit suicide worldwide, with one person taking their own life every 40 seconds, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
- In India, the highest number of suicides occur, with approximately 1.25 lakh cases reported each year. The age group primarily affected is 15 to 24 years old, with mental health complications arising from the internet, academic pressure, work-life imbalance, and deteriorating relationships being the main reasons.
- To address this issue, a national committee has been formed to study suicide prevention in schools and suggest measures to reduce suicide rates by 10 percent by 2030.
- During the Suicide Prevention and Awareness Week at AIIMS Patna, experts emphasized the importance of mental health awareness and provided strategies to relieve stress, such as practicing traditional yoga, engaging in physical exercise, and promoting good communication and basic life skills.
- A friendly and supportive environment at the workplace was also highlighted as crucial in reducing suicide risk factors.
- People close to those at risk of suicide should be vigilant about changes in their behavior and offer moral support. Early symptoms of suicide may include sleeplessness, loss of appetite, talking about death or killing oneself, giving away belongings, apologizing, and discussing settling accounts.
- Encouraging individuals to engage in activities, maintain a routine, and seek professional help is essential in preventing suicide.
