Combating the Silent Epidemic: A Multi-Sectoral Approach to Reducing Suicide Rates

World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) was established in 2003 by the International Association for Suicide Prevention in conjunction with the World Health Organisation (WHO). The 10th September each year aims to focus attention on the issue, reduces stigma and raises awareness among organisations, governments and the public, giving a singular message that suicides are preventable. The triennial theme for World Suicide Prevention Day for 2024-2026 is “Changing the Narrative on Suicide” with the call to action “Start the Conversation”. This theme aims to raise awareness about the importance of reducing stigma and encouraging open conversations to prevent suicides. Changing the narrative on suicide is about transforming how we perceive this complex issue and shifting from a culture of silence and stigma to one of openness, understanding, and support.

India has one of the highest suicide rates in the world. The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) annual report provides statistics on accidental deaths and suicides in India. Here are some key points from the NCRB available data (2022):

1. Overall Suicide Rate: In 2021, the suicide rate in India was 12 per 1, 00,000 people, with a total of 1, 64,033 recorded suicides. This marked an increase from previous years.

2. Gender Distribution: Males accounted for a higher percentage of suicides, making up around 70.9% of the total suicides, while females comprised 29.1%.

3. Age Group: The majority of suicides occurred among the age group of 18-30 years, followed by 30-45 years.

4. State-wise data: States like Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, and West Bengal reported the highest number of suicides.

5. Causes: Family problems (other than marriage-related issues), studies, unemployment, poverty and illness were the leading causes, accounting for around 33.2% and 18.6% of suicides, respectively.

6. Professional/Occupational Category: The highest suicide rate was recorded among daily wage earners, followed by self-employed individuals and unemployed people.

7. As per the NCRB report 2023, more than 13,000 students committed suicide, whereas, in 2023 July, 98+ NITs and IITs students took their lives, which was the highest number in the last five years.

Integrated Suicide Prevention Plan

Under one umbrella, governments, mental health experts, communities, and media can collaborate on a comprehensive, multi-sectoral suicide prevention programme with the following components:

1. National Awareness Campaigns: Launch coordinated campaigns to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and educate the public on mental health and suicide prevention. This can include media, social media, and community outreach efforts.

2. Integrated Mental Health Services: Develop a unified network of mental health services, including crisis hotlines, counselling centres, and online platforms, accessible to everyone. Governments can fund and promote these services, while mental health experts provide the care.

3. Training and Education: Implement standardised training programmes for healthcare providers, educators, law enforcement, and community leaders to recognise and respond to suicidal behaviours. These programmes can be developed collaboratively by governments and mental health organisations.

4. Support for Vulnerable Groups: Create targeted interventions for high-risk populations, such as youth, veterans, and individuals with a history of mental illness, by combining efforts from both government and community organisations.

5. Legislation and Policy: Governments can enact policies to restrict access to means of suicide and ensure that mental health is prioritised in education, workplace policies, and community programmes.

Self-Care Strategies To Prevent Suicidal Thoughts

Practical self-care tips a layperson can practice to prevent suicidal thoughts:

1. Be aware of early signs that your thoughts are becoming more dangerous, and take immediate action to use your safety plan.

2. Talk to someone you trust, share your feelings with a friend or family member.

3. Stay active, exercise regularly, even a short walk can boost your mood.

4. Focus on the present: Practise deep breathing or mindfulness to calm your mind.

5. Create a daily routine by structuring your day with activities that keep you engaged.

6. Avoid alcohol and drugs; stay clear of substances that can worsen your mood.

7. Get enough sleep, aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night to feel rested.

8. Do something you enjoy like, engaging in hobbies or activities that bring you joy.

9. Be kind to yourself by treating yourself with compassion, avoiding self-criticism.

10. Limit stress: Take breaks and avoid overwhelming yourself with too many tasks.

11. Pray or meditate, if you find comfort in spirituality or religion, engage in practices that provide you with peace and perspective.

12. Seek help if you’re struggling, reach out to a counsellor or mental health professional.

Suicide remains a critical public health issue worldwide, with its prevalence underscoring the urgent need for intensive intervention strategies. Despite the alarming statistics and increasing rates, the conversation around suicide often remains shrouded in stigma and silence. This silence can hinder effective prevention and support. To address this issue, a multi-sectoral approach is essential, combining efforts from governments, mental health professionals, communities, and individuals. By integrating national awareness campaigns, improving mental health services, and promoting self-care strategies, we can build a robust framework to reduce suicide rates and support those in need. This holistic approach aims to dismantle the barriers to effective suicide prevention and foster a culture of openness and understanding.

Niutoli Tuccu

Licensed Rehabilitation Psychologist

Proprietor, NT_ Revivify Counseling Service, Dimapur.