Suicide Prevention Day: More than 25,000 suicides reported in the state in the last 3 years

World Suicide Prevention Day will be observed on September 10. This is a serious mental health problem, focus on mental health, empathetic communication and timely treatment – these are the three main links that can save lives. The growing statistical realities in India and especially in Gujarat warn us that suicide investing must now be prioritised. According to the Gujarat Assembly, there have been more than 25,000 suicides in the state in the last three years, including 495 students. Family problems, illness and marital problems are the main reasons for suicide in India, said Dr. Arun Kumar, a neuropsychiatrist from Bhavnagar. Dharmin Shah said. More than 40% of those who commit suicide in India are young people (under 30 years of age) and about 160 young people commit suicide every day; This percentage is more than double the global average. The number of students is more than 13,000, which is 7.6 per cent of the total number. A total of 1,70,924 cases of suicide have been reported across India. The suicide rate in India has increased by more than 10% (during 2020–22). As many as 2,095 students committed suicide due to failure in exams in the country. What can be done to prevent suicide? Break the myth; Asking doesn't increase the risk. Immediate safety plan: Remove hazardous equipment and toxic drugs in the home/hostel. Consult a psychiatrist immediately and seek advice/treatment. Family and friends listening to the victim with non-judgmental attitude and understanding with empathy, gatekeeper training in school-college/workplace, use of 24×7 helplines. Socio-economic security, responsible reporting in mass media, control of availability of alcohol/poisonous drugs. > Dr. Dharmin Shah, Neuropsychiatrist Causes and Risk Factors Severe depression/bipolar disorder, alcohol and other drug addiction, chronic pain or disease, debt-bankruptcy, unemployment, educational/professional pressure, relationship disputes, previous suicide attempts, use of violent instruments and toxic drugs